Vancouver's Best Watering Holes

The Cambie Bar & Grill (300 Cambie Street)

The Cambie puts the "hole" in watering hole. The beer is some of the cheapest in the city - in price and in quality - but the place is always packed and the shared wooden tables guarantee good conversation. You'll rub elbows with a strange ilk so be prepared to leave with a few good stories.

George (1137 Hamilton Street)

Over on the right side of the tracks is the squeaky-clean George, a fine establishment in the trendy Yaletown that caters to connoisseurs who know a good Old Fashioned when they taste one. Check out the "G Spot" behind the bar, it glows red when the VIPs in the back room need service. But don't feel left out, the private rooms are open to anyone - anyone willing to shell out the $500 minimum, that is.

Six Acres (203 Carrall Street)

Vancouver's hippest drinkers flock the brick lined Six Acres to sip on import beers and hide away in this rustic Gastown nook. The menus are printed on recycled children's books and offer much in the way of krieks, blondes and lagers. The food is well-prepared, with small but satisfying portions. Try the Mon Ami platter: triple cream brie, seasonal fruit, roasted nuts and a warm baguette.

Railway Club (579 Dunsmuir Street)

Walk up some stairs off Dunsmuir and you'll be transported into what feels like your grandmother's living room-albeit with a wooden stage down front. Carpeted floors, friendly regulars and a small model train that runs overhead bolster the relaxed vibe. The Railway is an oft-overlooked hotspot for aging icons and upcoming talent. Come for a beer and stay for the show.