We are thrilled to bring you the fourth annual Vancouver Cocktail Week presented by The Alchemist magazine, a celebration of the city’s immense and internationally award-winning cocktail talent. We invite you to come out and enjoy creative cocktails, fine food, stimulating education and lively entertainment at select bars throughout Vancouver.
For 2025, VCW is returning from March 2 to 9 with some of the events you already know and love, as well as some exciting brand-new ones in your favourite cocktail bars across the city.
“We are proud to promote and support our incredible cocktail community and culture here in Vancouver. VCW’s success is due to the collaboration between all of us in this industry—the bartenders, the venues, the brands and the consumers,” says The Alchemist publisher, VCW event producer and co-founder Gail Nugent.
Vancouver has long punched above its weight when it comes to the art of creating and serving world-class cocktails, and no one knows that better than the team at The Alchemist, British Columbia’s first magazine dedicated to craft cocktail culture, now in its 10th year and publishing in Ontario as well. We had long wanted to showcase all that talent through a cocktail event and were thrilled to launch Vancouver Cocktail Week in March 2022. Over five days and across multiple venues, the first VCW featured dozens of events including brunches, seminars and a terrific closing gala.
Since then, VCW has expanded to eight days, and has added guest shifts, pop-ups, neighbourhood cocktail crawls and even some drag cocktail parties. And, in exciting news, the VCW team will be producing the Toronto Cocktail Festival Preview Weekend in October 2025, to gear up for the week long festival in October 2026!
Living Room Creative photos
As is VCW tradition, in 2025 the week kicks off with the Signature Sunday Cocktail Brunch, this year at ARC Restaurant at the Fairmont Waterfront. Expect to enjoy a decadent brunch paired with cocktails made with your favourite spirit brands. Get your tickets soon—this event always sells out fast.
In another proud VCW tradition, the week wraps up with a glamorous closing gala that is a must on everyone’s social calendar. This year, the theme is Black & White—so start planning your outfits now! The gala will be held in the gorgeous Spanish Ballroom at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia. It begins with a VIP hour with passed canapés and cocktails, and then the doors open onto the party of the year, with cocktail-inspired food to graze on, a DJ and live music to dance to, and sips from more than two dozen premium spirits brands to savour. All your favourite bartenders and brand ambassadors will be there. And don’t forget—a portion of proceeds go to support Mind The Bar, an organization that supports mental health wellness in the hospitality industry right across Canada.
The week will also feature extraordinary cocktail-paired tasting menus, master classes, seminars, neighbourhood bar crawls, special events galore and, in between, our series of unticketed “cinq à sept” happy hours at select VCW bar partners throughout the city. Plus you can expect to meet celebrated bartenders from across Canada and around the world, including the current World Class Global Bartender of the Year Keenan McGregor.
Working with our valued brand sponsors, The Alchemist invites everyone to celebrate the artistry and hospitality of the cocktail community, and to support Mind The Bar, at Vancouver Cocktail Week 2025.
We can’t wait to raise a glass with you.
—Joanne Sasvari, editor, The Alchemist and co-founder, Vancouver Cocktail Week
SIGNATURE SUNDAY COCKTAIL BRUNCH
March 2, 2025
11:30 am to 2 pm
ARC Restaurant at the Fairmont Waterfront
The traditional opening brunch is one of cocktail week’s best-loved signature events and is sure to sell out quickly, so don’t delay! The event opens with a cocktail and small bites standup reception, then slides into a seated four-course gourmet brunch.
Chef Adam Middleton will take delicious twists on classic brunch dishes, pairing them with creative cocktails crafted with premium spirits while brand ambassadors mingle with the crowd.
This is the best way to start the day—and kick off Vancouver Cocktail Week 2025!
Tickets on sale at thealchemistmagazine�ca/vcw
SIGNATURE SUNDAY COCKTAIL BRUNCH IS SPONSORED BY:
Gail Nugent photo
CINQ À SEPT SERIES
Nightly, March 2 to 9, 2025
Between the daytime seminars and evening events, head straight to one of our VCW bar partners to enjoy these elevated happy hours based on the French concept of the “cinq à sept”—5 to 7 pm, the playful hours between work and family life. (Hours vary though, so check with the venues for times.)
Expect VCW signature cocktails, snacks, entertainment, socializing and more.
Note that these events are not ticketed; however, some establishments may recommend reservations, so call ahead to secure a seat.
Discover the city’s best cocktails right in the venues that create them by following these carefully curated cocktail crawls through some of Vancouver’s most delicious neighbourhoods. Find tickets and more info at thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw
GASTOWN COCKTAIL CRAWL
Presented by Nikka Whisky
Meeting point: PiDGiN 350 Carrall Street
Sunday, March 2 • 4-8 pm
Explore the neighbourhood where Vancouver’s drinking history began 150 years ago, and where some of the city’s hottest bars are still slinging drinks. The evening begins at the Asian-fusion PiDGiN, then meanders over to the French-meets-West Coast elegances of L’Abattoir, swings by the vintage-inspired space of Pourhouse and wraps up at the casual fine dining Chambar. At each stop, enjoy Nikka Whisky cocktails and small bites to go with them.
MAIN STREET COCKTAIL CRAWL
Presented by Cantera Negra Tequila
Meeting point: The Acorn 3995 Main Street
Monday, March 3 • 4-7 pm
This Mount Pleasant neighbourhood has become Vancouver’s best for food and drink, boasting some of the most exciting independent eateries (and drinkeries) in the city. This crawl begins at the Michelin-recommended vegetarian restaurant The Acorn From there it heads to Good Thief, the rebellious cocktail-forward concept from the team behind Anh and Chi, and ends at The Watson, known for its craft cocktails. At each stop, enjoy Cantera Negra Tequila cocktails and small bites to go with them.
YALETOWN COCKTAIL CRAWL
Presented by Gray Whale Gin
Meeting point: Minami
1118 Mainland Street
Tuesday, March 4 • 5-8 pm
It’s all about the urban vibe in this former warehouse district turned trendy residential and shopping ’hood. This tour begins at the lovely Japanese restaurant Minami, then travels to The Stock Room, the speakeasy-style bar behind Hundy Burger, and ends at UVA, an award-winning cocktail bar. At each stop, enjoy Gray Whale Gin cocktails and small bites to go with them.
COMMERCIAL DRIVE COCKTAIL CRAWL
Presented by Flor de Caña Rum
Meeting point: Bar Corso 1566 Commercial Drive
Wednesday, March 5 • 5-8 pm
Vancouver’s Little Italy is vibrant, fun and bold, especially when it comes to flavour. Start your tour at the intimate Bar Corso, a little slice of Italy on the Drive, then venture over to The Flamingo Room, Vancouver’s colourful Miami-inspired bar. The tour wraps at Pax Romana, a Mediterranean tapas bar inspired by the golden age of Rome. At each stop, enjoy Flor de Caña rum cocktails and small bites to go with them.
SINGLE MALT SINCE 2011.
Classic Single Malt (46% ABV) is a wonderful expression—rich and smooth.
liquor store.
VCW BARTENDER POP-UPS
One of the most exciting aspects of VCW is the chance to meet bartenders from other cities, to see— and taste!— what they are shaking up. These pop-ups, many featuring World’s 50 Best Bars, let you do just that. Find more info at thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw
LIBRARY BAR POP-UP
Prophecy
801 West Georgia Street
Tuesday, March 4 • 7 to 10 pm
Join us for a taste of Toronto’s legendary Library Bar with 2021 World Class Global Bartender of the Year James Grant. Enjoy a selection of four cocktails from the Diageo portfolio.
HIGHWAYMAN POP-UP
Prophecy
801 West Georgia Street
Thursday, March 6 • 7 to 10 pm
Join us a taste of Halifax’s popular Highwayman Restaurant & Bar with 2024 World Class Global Bartender of the Year Keenan McGregor. Enjoy a selection of four cocktails from the Diageo portfolio.
SIP & GUZZLE POP-UP
Good Thief
3336 Main Street
Monday, March 3 • Time TBC
Enjoy from a selection of 5 signature cocktails by head bartender and partner, Ben Yabrow from Sip & Guzzle in NYC. One cocktail of your choice along with a paired Good Thief appetizer is included. This experience is by reservation to ensure entry.
OUR CHARITY PARTNER
Mind The Bar
Vancouver Cocktail Week presented by The Alchemist is proud to support Mind The Bar with a portion of proceeds.
Mind The Bar is a volunteer-based non-profit organization that supports mental health wellness in the hospitality industry across Canada. Founded
in 2018 by Vancouver’s Shoel Davidson, Mind The Bar provides resources and information on the major issues of depression, anxiety, addiction and workplace harassment. Its goal is ultimately to dismantle the stigma associated with mental health by changing the way we discuss, address and cope with it.
For information, visit mindthebar�com
BLACK & WHITE GALA
Saturday, March 8, 2025
7 to 8 pm VIPs • 8 to 11 pm Partygoers
Rosewood Hotel Georgia, 801 West Georgia Street
The closing night gala is the biggest, most glamourous event of Vancouver Cocktail Week, and it’s one you don’t want to miss! Don your most stylish black-and-white cocktail fashion and step into the beautiful Spanish Ballroom where top bartenders from near and far craft unique cocktails just for you. It begins with a VIP hour with passed canapés and cocktails, and then the doors open onto the party of the year, with cocktail-inspired food to graze on, a DJ and live music to dance to, and sips from more than two dozen premium spirits brands to savour. Note that this event also supports Mind The Bar.
And, because we want you to stay safe and keep the party going, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia will be offering special room rates for the evening.
Tickets on sale at thealchemistmagazine�ca/vcw
THE BLACK & WHITE GALA IS SPONSORED BY:
Living Room Creative photo
SEMINARS
There is serious education and training that goes into every cocktail. Learn about spirits, their history, cocktail techniques and more from some of Canada’s greatest experts in the field. For more seminars, go to thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw.
SUNDAY,
MARCH 2
THE HISTORY OF THE MARTINI
Copperpenny Distilling Co�
288 East Espanade, North Vancouver
4-5:30 pm
Sip Martini variations while imbibing Martini lore and more! Cocktailians Tarquin Melynk and Robyn Gray explore the storied world of the Martini From the Martinez to the Tuxedo all the way through to the Kangaroo. Four cocktails and light snacks are included with this seminar.
ENTER THE BASBAS
Ama
3980 Fraser Street
5-6 PM
Come join us for a unique tasting of the world’s most awarded hierbas, Basbas. “Bas” means “wild” in the Basque language Euskera, and is a nod to the wild foraged herbs that shape its elegance and complexity. The recipe has been protected by Ibicenco families for generations, but dates back to 16th century monks living in the Isles Balearia. Dive deep into this wonder of Ibiza through an in-depth seminar that showcases this sensational libation with playful cocktails and tasty bites. Attending will also provide you early access to the “Basbas Soirée” happening right after where we’ll be kicking off a true Ibiza-style party with DJs, snacks, and an eclectic one-night-only cocktail menu.
TUESDAY, MARCH 4
DISCOVER THE VIBRANT FLAVOURS OF MEXICO AND DON JULIO TEQUILA
Prophecy
801 West Georgia Street 12-2 pm
Join Rob Renda, Luxury Portfolio Ambassador as he takes you on a journey of Mexican flavours paired with Don Julio Tequila. We will take you through the tequila making process, from agriculture through to bottling, while sampling the Don Julio family of tequilas. Guests will sample: Don Julio Blanco, Don Julio Reposado, Don Julio Anejo, Don Julio 70 and Don Julio 1942.
MEXICO’S BEST-KEPT SECRET
Chambar
568 Beatty Street 7-9 pm
Meet Master Distiller Tony Salles, grandson of Don Jorge Salles Cuervo, who founded El Tequileño in 1959. Named Gran Tequilero by the National Chamber of the Tequila Industry in 2018 and Agave Producer of the Year 2023 and 2024 at the International Spirits Competition, Salles is one of the most respected people in the industry. Taste through all of El Tequileño’s nine expressions and learn all about this storied spirit and brand.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
AGAVE AFTERNOON AT THE WATSON
The Watson 3080 Main Street
11:30 am-1 pm
Get acquainted with the Beverage Collection portfolio—an agave-forward lineup with some gems from Central and South America. The story begins with some of the best mezcal and tequila on the market, and ends on a sweet note with a collection of aperitivos and amaros. Your tasting will be accompanied by thoughtfully prepared small bites that pair perfectly with the narrative of the tasting.
HOW TO: CREATIVE COCKTAIL DEVELOPMENT
Mount Pleasant Vintage
67 West 6th Avenue
2 pm
Soren Schepkowski from Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions will teach you the art of crafting exceptional drinks in this essential seminar. He will cover the core principles of cocktail evaluation, the six base cocktails and how to modify and personalize recipes. You will learn the importance of product knowledge, the components of a cocktail (core, balance and seasoning) and how to push creative boundaries with unique ingredients and ideas. Additionally, we’ll dive into final presentation and the art of naming your creations to increase brand appeal. Join us for an engaging experience that will inspire you to innovate and perfect your cocktail skills.
UNDERSTANDING UMESHU
Zarak
2102 Main Street
3-5 pm
Meet umeshu, a Japanese liqueur made from ume, a fruit closely related to the apricot. CHOYA’s version is a golden amber colour with vibrant flavours of fresh lime, plum, dried
apricots and a touch of floral, delicately sweet with lively acidity and a soft finish. CHOYA brand ambassador Shinji Inaba will lead you on a flavour journey as you learn all about this intriguing liqueur, its role in cocktails and how to pair it with food. A CHOYA cocktail created by Winnie Sun paired with a light snack will be included in the seminar.
PACIFIC NORTH-BEST
Sopra Sotto
1510 Commercial Drive
5-6 PM
Join us for a deep dive into the wonderful world of Sheringham Distillery and all of its west coast colours. Sheringham, self-described as “a small distillery with big dreams,” has certainly lived up to its goal. Having already won the world’s biggest gin competition, it is now pushing the boundaries of what Pacific Northwest spirits can be. This seminar will give you a peek behind the curtain into what makes these spirits so magical as you taste your way through their wonderful line up. Attending will also give you early access to the Pacific Northwest Party we will be throwing immediately after. Throw on your tiniest toque and finest plaid and experience west coast Canadiana through music, food, and cocktails created by Sheringham brand ambassador Gareth Jones and beverage director Dylan Riches.
Living Room Creative photo
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
THE ROAD TO THE GLOBALS! Prophecy
801 West Georgia Street 12-2 pm
This industry-only seminar, presented by the Canadian World Class winning team, looks at Canadian hospitality—a journey from coast to coast creating globally recognized bartenders. You will enjoy their stories and cocktails, but also learn how to create your own award-worthy drinks in one of the city’s most exciting new venues.
Interviews
News Features Reviews Trends Recipes & more
SUNDAY, MARCH 9
THE HISTORY OF THE HANGOVER Copperpenny Distilling Co� 288 East Esplanade, North Vancouver 4-5:30 pm
Alcohol is fun until it isn’t, and that’s usually the morning after. Learn how alcohol affects your body, how to guard yourself against its damaging effects and how to revive yourself if you happen to over-indulge. Many anecdotes and antidotes abound! Three cocktails, a glass of water and a Tylenol will be included with the seminar.
Packed full of cocktail-loving content, the print edition of The Alchemist focuses on what makes cocktail culture great in Canada and beyond.
Better yet, it’s free, so when you subscribe, you pay only for the cost of shipping and handling. Subscribe today and get every issue delivered to your door.
For more info and to start your subscription, visit thealchemistmagazine.ca
We know when to shake and when to stir
VCW EVENTS
These ticketed events range from master classes to cocktail-paired dinners and represent the wide world of cocktail culture in Vancouver and beyond. Many feature global brand ambassadors and top bar stars from Vancouver, Canada and around the world—and all of them offer exciting tastes for those thirsty for new experiences. For tickets and more events, go to thealchemistmagazine.ca/vcw.
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
SIGNATURE SUNDAY COCKTAIL BRUNCH
ARC Restaurant
900 Canada Place
11:30 am-2 pm
See page 7 for details.
MONDAY, MARCH 3
FETTERCAIRN GARDEN PARTY
Chambar
568 Beatty Street
4:30-7:30 PM
Join Fettercairn Single Malt Whisky ambassador Emma Coady for this high tea-themed garden party at Chambar. Enjoy a welcome cocktail reception on arrival. During the event, you’ll have the opportunity to mingle while you sample different expressions of Fettercairn whiskies, listen to live music and design a floral bouquet. Graze on small bites and while you sip a pre-batched teapot cocktail. Dress to impress! Additional drinks available to order from a special event menu.
SIP & GUZZLE POP-UP
Good Thief
3336 Main Street
Time TBC
Enjoy from a selection of 5 signature cocktails by head bartender and partner, Ben Yabrow from Sip & Guzzle in NYC. One
cocktail of your choice along with a paired Good Thief appetizer is included. This experience is by reservation to ensure entry. .
JUNGLE JUICE VOL� 3
Jungle Room
961 Denman Street
Doors: 8 pm; show 8:30 pm
We’re baaaaaaack! Take a journey with Amy Grindhouse, Kara Juku and PM into a glamorous and entertaining night of cocktails and drag performances. These performances are hot, tasty, spiced to perfection and ready to serve you a night you won’t forget. Come for the drinks, stay for the drag! And don’t forget: In the jungle, your tips make it rain, so be sure to bring cash to show love to our performers.
TUESDAY, MARCH 4
A SEAT AT HER BAR: COCKTAIL POP-UP AND Q&A
The Flamingo Room
1214 Commercial Drive
4-6 pm
Join Tara Davies, formerly of Chupito, Winnie Sun of ELEM, Taylor Gardiner of Bar Corso and Tadia Rae of Pizza Coming Soon for this illuminating session.
In the bar and restaurant industry—like many fields—women's voices have been muted or overlooked for far too long. It's high time we shine a spotlight on their stories, challenges and
triumphs, showcasing how they elevate not only their own narratives, but also those of the women around them. Let’s toast their artistry and strength, as we savour the vibrant creations that reflect their journeys. Here’s to the bold women shaking things up and crafting a brighter future, one drink at a time! Ticket price includes snacks and a feature cocktail.
SMOKE, MALT AND SALT: JAPANESE WHISKY TASTING NIGHT
Carlino
1115 Alberni Street
6-7:30 pm
Join us on a unique culinary journey with this curated evening of Japanese whisky paired with Italian cold cuts and Friulian specialties. Start with a welcome cocktail, then taste your way through five expressions of Nikka Japanese whisky, including the rich and peaty Yoichi 10 Year Old, alongside the savoury flavours of prosciutto, carpaccio and more.
HANAMI
AT MINAMI
Minami
1118 Mainland Street
7:30 pm
One of the most beautiful springtime traditions in Japan is the viewing of cherry blossoms referred to as “hanami.” Family and friends come together to enjoy the trees abloom in pretty pink flowers while sharing food and drinks. As cocktail week coincides with the emergence of the year’s first cherry blossoms, Minami will offer a four-course dinner inspired by the hanami tradition, paired with cocktails made using Giffard Liqueurs from France. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic options are available.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
A LOCAVORE COCKTAIL ADVENTURE
The Acorn 3995 Main Street Four seatings: 5:30, 6, 8 and 8:30 pm
Join The Acorn restaurant and longtime friends and neighbours, Odd Society Spirits, for a one-night-only cocktail dinner celebrating Vancouver Cocktail Week! This exclusive collaboration showcases a multi-course dining experience paired with innovative cocktails crafted by The Acorn’s head bartender Lewis Reid and Odd Society’s own Mia Glanz. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of locavore cuisine and local spirits in perfect harmony. Must be 19+ to participate.
Living Room Creative photo
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
SPIRITED WOMEN WHISKY TASTING
The Flamingo Room
1214 Commercial Drive
4-5 pm
It’s time to sip, savour and celebrate Spirited Women—a whisky-tasting night like no other!
Whether you’re a whisky aficionado or just curious about the “water of life,” this evening at Vancouver’s Miami-inspired cocktail bar is all about bold flavours, inspiring stories and memorable connections. The fabulous whisky curator Stacy Kyle will lead you on n exploration of handpicked whiskies paired with stories of trailblazing women who’ve left their mark on the whisky world. Think of it as a tasting tour, with a side of empowerment and laughter!
TEQUILA AND CHOCOLATE TASTING
Brix & Mortar
1137 Hamilton Street
5:30-8 pm
Enjoy two of your favourite things (tequila and chocolate) and learn how they go together. Guests will receive a Komos tequila welcome cocktail on arrival, then experience a guided tequila and paired chocolate tasting. A reception follows, including a Komos tequila cocktail and small bites.
THE DALMORE PAIRING AND TASTING
Elem
2110 Main Street
Time TBC
This exquisite experience will guide you through a carefully curated selection of The Dalmore’s finest whiskies, paired with expertly crafted dishes by Vish Mayekar designed to elevate and complement the complex flavors of these exceptional drams.
ELEM Beverage Director Winnie Sun will also prepare Dalmore Old Fashioned, Penicillin, and Café Royal cocktails with a creative twist.
FIERCE ADVENTURES
Guilt & Co�
1 Alexander Street
7-9 PM
Come to Guilt & Co. for a live game of Dungeons and Dragons hosted by a fierce but glamorous group of drag queens. For added adventure there will be individual performances from each player all while enjoying fabulous cocktails.
FRIDAY, MARCH 7
STRANGE BREW: THE CANADIAN WHISKY EXPERIENCE WITH J�P� WISER’S AND LOT 40
The Stock Room 1144 Homer Street
6 pm
Join us for all things Canadiana with J.P. Wiser’s Canadian Whisky and Lot 40. What’s more Canadian than hockey, poutine and Canadian whisky? We’ll have it all, with cocktails from J.P. Wiser’s 10-Year-Old Canadian Whisky and Lot 40, your favourite Canadian bites and, of course, hockey. Ticket includes one complimentary feature cocktail.
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
CHERRY BLOSSOM TIPSY TEA
Notch8 Restaurant & Bar
900 West Georgia Street
Two seatings: Noon and 3 pm
This “tipsy” update on Notch8’s traditional afternoon tea will feature a special selection of liquor-infused savouries, sweets and other bites paired with Fairmont’s Lot35 selection of quality
teas. Those looking to give the experience a little extra kick can add on specialty “teatails” (tea cocktails made with Fairmont’s Lot35 teas) created by the Notch8 bar and beverage team.
Tickets include one complimentary glass of sparkling wine and one cocktail. Additional cocktails available for purchase.
CASA AGAVE WITH ALTOS TEQUILA
The Stock Room
1144 Homer Street
6 pm
Join us for an evening of all things agave with one of the world's best tequilas for making Margaritas. We’ll be shaking things up with feature cocktails from Altos Tequila and Del Maguey Mezcal, as well as tequila and mezcal flight tastings, feature bites and entertainment. Ticket includes one complimentary feature cocktail.
BLACK & WHITE GALA
Rosewood Hotel Georgia
801 West Georgia Street
VIP: 7 pm; Partygoers: 8 pm
See page 13 for details.
SUNDAY, MARCH 9
CHERRY BLOSSOM TIPSY TEA
Notch8 Restaurant & Bar
900 West Georgia Street
Two seatings: noon and 3 pm
This “tipsy” update on Notch8’s traditional afternoon tea will feature a special selection of liquor-infused savouries, sweets and other bites paired with Fairmont’s Lot35 selection of quality teas. Those looking to give the experience a little extra kick can add on specialty “teatails” (tea cocktails made with Fairmont’s Lot35 teas) created by the Notch8 bar and beverage team. Tickets include one complimentary glass of sparkling wine and one cocktail. Additional cocktails available for purchase.
