How do you take your drink of choice—do you hit the rocks, go for a highball, or swirl through a smoothly blended dream? Our advice: Let the skilled bartenders of the Couve decide for you. After taking a backseat to the area’s booming brew scene, a new class of dedicated mixologists have put Vancouver WA’s cocktail scene into overdrive, infusing bars with fresh takes on old classics and a new round of playful concoctions.
On the Waterfront
The best pairing for a first-rate cocktail is a killer view. Fortunately for cocktail connoisseurs, WildFin American Grill, DOSALAS Latin Kitchen + tequila bar, and Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar have just that at their waterfront digs.
If the name isn't a dead giveaway, the martini is the drink to order at Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar. For a refreshing spin on the classic, try a Cucumber Crush made with Tito's, Hpnotiq, and muddled limes and cucumbers. During happy hour and late-night, knock an extra two bucks off the price.
WildFin American Grill is known for sourcing Northwest spirits for their drinks, including Rose City vodka (Portland, OR), Heritage Elk Rider bourbon (Gig Harbor, WA), and Oola Waitsburg bourbon (Seattle, WA). Opt for a barrel-aged Manhattan or old-fashioned to enjoy the oaky flavors of the region.
You can't talk about cocktails on the waterfront without thinking of DOSALAS Latin Kitchen + tequila bar and their picture-perfect drinks and high-quality flavor. Stop by for Margarita Monday for their colorful margarita sampler that never disappoints or indulge in the must-have Vintage Fashion. Enjoy a variety of cocktails (or mocktails) from the uniquely crafted menu and enjoy dining on the water in an opulent modern, chic, and sexy space. Psst: One of their cocktails even gets served in a glass cage!
Downtown Drinks
Amaro’s Table pays due deference to its namesake, focusing on complex cocktails accentuated by unique Amaro varietals (Italian herbal liqueurs with a bittersweet taste). Drinks change with the season, and recent highlights include drinks like “Flower Shop" (featuring Wodka Vodka, New Deal Cascadia Bitter Liqueur, honeydew, pear, lavender, and cardamom).
The Grocery Cocktail and Social continues to propel downtown’s cocktail scene, a casual cocktail lounge with a noteworthy whiskey list and beautiful hand crafted cocktails. Try a signature cocktail like "Kiss This" (featuring Counter Old Tom gin, Sidetrack raspberry liqueur, Meletti Ciocclatto, Brovo Jammy vermouth).
For a mezcal-fueled trip south of the border, hop over to Little Conejo to sample from a curated collection of rare Latin spirits. Belly up to the bar to try the daily special (the fresh fruit margs are always welcome additions) and let your taste buds carry you to warmer climates.
Underground in Uptown
In Uptown Village, the Hungry & Thirsty Sasquatch invites guests to grab a drink, play a game, and step into mythical escapism with PNW-inspired flavors. If the thirsty sasquatch in you finds yourself needing a drink, might we suggest a mid-day tippler like the "Sherry Cobbler" or a Charity Cocktail like the "Mission Mojito".
UnderBar finds inspiration in a subterranean speakeasy premise. Newcomers never fear—no code word is needed to descend the steps into the boozy basement. The 1920s influence is decidedly understated, with splashy concepts eschewed in favor of cozy living room vibes and a large wood bar stocked with cocktail classics. Order a Manhattan, grab a board game, and settle in.
Shanahan’s Pub offers a similar concept to The Grocery's Washington Whisk(e)y Parlor (albeit more globally-minded) at their next door annex dubbed The Infirmary. Choose from more than 150 labels of whiskey, scotch, and bourbon from Japan, Ireland, Canada, and beyond.
Neighborhood Favorites
Visit during happy hour for the $7 cocktail of the day. The Hammond Kitchen and Craft Bar makes a visit out past the SE 192nd corridor completely worthwhile thanks to its cozy, industrial-chic vibes and refreshing, well-balanced drinks. Among marina boats and riverfront condos, The Cove serves up sea-inspired cocktails like the tropical Laguna Azul and Northwest Fog with Aria Gin and Earl Gray tea syrup.