East Vancouver is no stranger to change. The area has had a long manufacturing history that goes as far as the 1800’s. Home to diverse ethnic groups, the area has its own fusion of flavours when it comes to food, and spirits.
So it’s not surprising to me, that East Van pioneered the micro-brewery and distillery culture we are enjoying in Vancouver. As we all know, nothing goes better with a bite than a cool beer or cocktail.
Expedia.ca asked me to share some spots not to miss while visiting the Vancouver East Side:
Mike, Nick and Anthony all grew up within 10 minutes of each other in East Van. The three friends had a passion for craft beer and they turned that passion into the thriving business that it is today. Their craft room is open from 11am -11pm daily.
One of their staple beers, The Gypsy Tears, is a favourite here in Vancouver, and a good one to sample first. It’s a hoppy ale with a creamy caramel finish. If looking for something a little lighter, the Jerkface 9000 (not making up the name here, honest), is a lighter American-style wheat ale that is easy to drink and ends with a clean citrus finish.
Can’t decide? No worries, for a few bucks you can get their beer flight and try four of their beers on tap. If you visit during the summer months, DO NOT miss their Seedspitter – A Belgium-style Witbier with a refreshing watermelon twist.
This distillery has made a name for itself by creating small batch spirits. Their EastVan Vodka, named as a tribute to their neighbourhood, is something many local bartenders swear by.
Aside vodka, Odd Society combines Old World distilling traditions, with New World ingredients to create many other spirits including whiskey, Crème de Cassis, and gin. Their Tasting Room is open Thursdays 1-7 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 1-11:00 pm and Sundays 1-6 pm.
In business since 1995, Storm Brewing is one of the oldest breweries in East Van. The beers are made in small batches to guarantee freshness. Their set up is a tad unconventional: there’s no lounge, no tasting room. All beers are served as single samplings (no flights, no pints) and all samples are by cash donation. However, you can purchase a growler to take home for as little as $5.
Fairly new to the neighbourhood is Powell Street Brewery. Open since 2012, its owners are passionate about using all natural ingredients. Their Ode to Citra Pale Ale is not to be missed. Their tasting room is open Mon and Sunday 12-8pm and Tuesday thru Saturdays 12-10pm.This post was written in collaboration with Expedia.ca.
Mary in Vancity 
In not sure if I’ve actually been to any of these! I’ll have to put them on my list to check out.
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