Mary in Vancity

Uva Wine & Cocktail Bar isn’t just another spot to grab a drink—it’s a place where every glass tells a story. You can feel the craft and care in each sip, and a big part of that comes from Nikita Myronenko, their mixologist, whose journey around the world brings a unique perspective to the bar.

Nikita’s journey started in Ukraine, but his 15-year bartending career has taken him far and wide, from the Maldives to Dubai. Along the way, he’s worked at some pretty incredible venues—like managing a luxury resort on a remote island and diving into Dubai’s vibrant nightlife scene. A self-taught mixologist, Nikita enjoys creating his own infusions and syrups in order to create unique cocktails that will leave you wanting more.

What I really appreciate about Nikita’s approach is how he brings that international flair to Uva, but with a genuine love for the craft. Take the Don Cigarro, one of Uva’s classics. It’s a bold mix of cinnamon-infused bourbon, Amaretto Disaronno, passion fruit purée, orange and lemon juice, and Angostura bitters. It sounds like a lot, but the balance is perfect—rich, smooth, and just a bit adventurous.

And then there’s Harvest Moon, his new fall cocktail. It’s smoky mezcal with fresh pumpkin purée, lemon, and cinnamon syrup, topped with black salt. Nikita keeps it real and approachable, even when he’s experimenting.

Uva also does these fun little extras, like movie-themed cocktails. Recently, they came up with a cocktail for the release of Beetlejuice, which just adds a playful vibe to an already classy spot. It’s small touches like this that make Uva feel welcoming without trying too hard.

Uva also has a great happy hour menu that’s worth checking out. It runs from 12 to 4:30 PM and then again from 10 to 11 PM, making it easy to drop by whether you’re out in the afternoon or winding down in the evening. The menu features tasty bites like pizzas, Korean fried cauliflower, and truffle fries—simple, comforting options that pair well with a drink and are perfect for sharing. It’s a relaxed and inviting way to experience what Uva has to offer without any rush.

Oh, and if you’re out late on a Friday or Saturday, Uva’s new late-night snack menu is worth sticking around for. Think charcuterie, cheese boards, and even gourmet popcorn—nothing too fancy, but exactly what you want with that last drink of the night.

There’s a lot to love about Uva, but it’s Nikita’s genuine passion and global experience that make it a little special. You can tell he’s not just mixing drinks—he’s bringing stories and flavors from all over the world into every glass. It’s that connection that makes Uva more than just another bar.