In Vancouver, when the weather is nice, there are few places better to be. A patio with a cold beer (while still in Vancouver) is one of those places. Unfortunately, good patios are a rare treat in Vancouver. Most are either tiny (think two tables) or on major streets.
After some very difficult in-depth research, I’ve come up with 3 patios that you absolutely must spend some time on this summer.
The Perfect Spot for a Beer in the Sun: The Wicklow
If you’re looking for a patio to pass this summer, you’ve found your place. Overlooking False Creek from Stamp’s Landing, the Wicklow’s patio gets full sun all day long.
Wish I could tell you a bit more about it, but I only know the patio. Inside, looks kinda like a dozen other pubs around town. The food? Don’t know, I’m only here for the beer. The beer? Well, it’s been since last summer, so let’s just say I’ll bring you up to speed next time it’s warm enough to enjoy a beer on the patio.
But don’t worry about the inside, the food or even the beer – plan to spend some time on this patio this summer.
The Best View of English Bay: The Galley at the Jericho Sailing Club
Reason#1205 that I love the Jericho Sailing Club: one of the best patios in town. In fact, it is one of my favourite places to sit and enjoy the sun in Vancouver. Not one of my favourite patios, pubs or drinking establishments – one of my favourite places, period.
Amazing sunset, as seen from The Galley Restaurant, at Jericho Sailing Centre
It has an unparalleled view of English Bay (being right on the beach, it should) and the north shore mountains. As an added bonus, you can pass the hours watching people learn to sail and windsurf right before your eyes.
Some of the food is very good – some can be avoided. The fish tacos are a disappointment, but the burgers and the nachos are excellent. Watch out for an upcoming review for more details. For beer, they serve the awesomely named Red Devil Pale and Sun God Wheat Ale from Vancouver’s own R&B Brewing.
Whatever the excuse – lunch, diner, afternoon beer or just a desire to be in the sun – a trip to The Galley is an absolute must on a hot sunny day.
Best People Watching from a Patio: Cat’s Social House, Granville Island
Although it isn’t in the busiest area of Granville Island, there is still enough going on within view of the patio to keep you interested. As for Cat’s Social House, they have good beer, good food and one of the best locations in the city.
We’ll start (as usual) with the beer. The best deal is a special they have, which they call Social Lager. It is $4.00 a beer (not a full pint), so you can’t really go wrong. It is light and is a bit sweet; I wonder if they mix just a bit of something (like ginger ale) in, but if they do, they do it well.
I don’t have a lot of experience with the food, but I remember trying a spinach dip there that was excellent. The really important part, though, is the patio. It extends out the front of the pub, towards the pond at the start of the island. You can watch various birds, as well as children chasing them, from here and pass the afternoon.
The only real draw backs are the fact that it is busy and it has a somewhat limited time in the sun. But as long as you can get a spot in the sun, it is well worth the trip.
What are Your Favourite Patios?
So there you have it, my top 3 patios in town. What about you? What are your favourites? What is missing from this list? Add your thoughts in the comments below!
