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The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar, located at 917 Main St in Central Vancouver, plays a vital role in the local community. This intimate speakeasy-style bar not only serves a rotating selection of craft beers and inventive cocktails but also fosters a sense of belonging among its patrons. With its cozy atmosphere, The Boxcar has become a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, enhancing the vibrant social fabric of Vancouver.

Collaboration with Pizzeria Farina for food options

Support for local musicians through live music events

The Boxcar frequently hosts events that bring the community together, such as themed cocktail nights and live music sessions. These gatherings not only showcase local talent but also create a lively atmosphere where patrons can connect over shared interests. The bar's proximity to the Cobalt venue enhances the experience, allowing guests to enjoy live performances while sipping on their favorite drinks.

The Boxcar is committed to sustainable practices by sourcing local ingredients whenever possible and minimizing waste. The bar encourages patrons to enjoy their drinks responsibly and actively participates in community clean-up initiatives. By fostering a culture of environmental awareness, The Boxcar aims to set an example for other establishments in Vancouver.

"The Boxcar is a cozy spot to hang out with friends and enjoy great cocktails!" - Karl Whinnery, a regular patron.

Join the vibrant community at The Boxcar and experience a unique blend of craft cocktails, local music, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a local or just visiting Vancouver, The Boxcar invites you to unwind and connect with friends. Visit us today!

Q: Is The Boxcar still open? A: As of May 2025, The Boxcar remains operational after securing a new lease agreement.

Q: What are the operating hours of The Boxcar? A: The Boxcar is open daily from 4 PM to 1 AM, extending to 2 AM on weekends.

Q: Does The Boxcar offer food? A: While The Boxcar does not have its own kitchen, patrons can order pizzas from the neighboring Pizzeria Farina.

The Boxcar: A Historical Overview of Vancouver's Hidden Gem Bar.

Nestled at 917 Main Street, Vancouver, The Boxcar has become a beloved bar in the local nightlife scene since its inception in 2014. With its intimate speakeasy vibe and inviting atmosphere, it offers patrons a unique experience characterized by a rotating selection of craft beers and innovative cocktails. This establishment isn’t just a bar; it’s a gathering place that embodies the spirit of Vancouver's Central district.

2014: The Boxcar opens at 917 Main Street, Vancouver, BC.

2022: Announced potential closure due to building sale; later secured a new lease.

Throughout its history, The Boxcar has not only served as a bar but also as a cultural hub. The bar's design reflects a modern take on the classic speakeasy theme, creating a cozy spot for friends and visitors to unwind. The rotating taps feature local craft beers, ensuring that both residents and tourists have the opportunity to savor the flavors of British Columbia.

Despite facing challenges, including the potential closure in 2022, The Boxcar has proven its resilience by securing a new lease and maintaining its position as a favorite among locals. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring charm of Vancouver's bar culture and a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Experience The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar in central vancouver's vibrant scene.

Nestled on Main Street, The Boxcar offers a cozy, intimate setting perfect for craft beer and cocktail enthusiasts seeking a laid-back spot in Vancouver's bustling nightlife. Known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse drink selection, this bar combines the charm of a speakeasy with a welcoming vibe that appeals to locals and visitors alike.

The bar boasts an excellent array of craft beers and creative cocktails, with taps that rotate regularly to keep the menu fresh and exciting. The outdoor patio is a highlight for summer evenings, complemented by live music from the neighboring venue, adding to the vibrant ambiance. Patrons often praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff who contribute to a welcoming environment, as well as the pet-friendly policy that invites furry friends along.

While The Boxcar shines in many areas, some visitors report occasional service inconsistencies and limited indoor seating, which can make busy nights a bit cramped. The bar does not have its own kitchen, so food options come from a neighboring pizzeria, which may not satisfy all cravings. Additionally, some guests have experienced lapses in attention from staff during peak hours, suggesting that patience might be required.

Diverse selection of craft beers and cocktails

 ideal for socializing in pleasant weather.

 offering great value for your night out.

 so your furry companions can join the fun.

Whether you're gathering with friends for a casual evening or looking to explore Vancouver's craft beverage scene, The Boxcar offers a unique and enjoyable atmosphere. Just keep in mind the seating constraints and potential service ups and downs to set your expectations accordingly. Overall, it's a noteworthy spot for those seeking a charming cocktail and beer bar experience in Central Vancouver.

The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar Vancouver BC Canada Main Street Central Vancouver nightlife drinks pizzas outdoor seating live music dogs allowed intimate vibe happy hour pizzeria Farina craft cocktails craft beer taps food experience vibrant spot trendy locals visitors night out social fun atmosphere mixology bartenders cocktail mules Americanos beer lovers pizza lovers summer patio good for groups digital nomads foodies Nova Circle destination guide travel lifestyle Nova Circle recommendations creative cocktails fresh ingredients music events community friendly venue urban vibe downtown Vancouver neighbourhood casual hangout modern decor unique bar experience small bar big personality welcoming environment exciting nightlife spot iconic Vancouver bar scene mixology lovers casual dining small plates pairing pizza cocktails outdoor music scene local buzz urban hotspot vibrant energy social hangout destination party spot craft beer lovers live entertainment local musicians duo band enjoy night out trendy downtown spot summer evenings casual dining experience pizza and drinks combo great cocktails great beer great pizza friendly staff neighbourhood gem city vibe comfortable seating food pairing recommendations craft brews seasonal cocktails unique cocktails refreshing drinks party atmosphere quality service memorable night out local favourites beverage selection exciting flavours mixologist favourites cocktail recipes bartender specials unique venue hidden gem must visit local hotspot metropolitan area night scene fun experience great value food and drink specials relaxed atmosphere relaxing environment socializing spot evening entertainment night gathering trendy crowd party vibe trendy bar with personality community vibe seasonal drink menu specialty cocktails local ingredients hand crafted drinks classic cocktails modern twists ingredient spotlight drink presentation photo worthy cocktails taste sensation casual and lively atmosphere trendy spot great place to meet friends unwind after work weekend hangout spot music and drinks combo small cozy spot intimate seating areas good vibes only lively atmosphere with music and dancing popular bar for locals summer patio dining experience beer on tap wine selection dog friendly venue casual yet stylish ambiance iconic spot in Vancouver central location easy access public transit lively neighbourhood social hotspot craft cocktail bar beer bar lively nightlife scene pizza delivery nearby great cocktail menu local favourite bar urban retreat relaxed vibe trendy venue friendly crowd music nights live DJ great sound system outdoor seating area patio seating summer nights good place for groups casual bar with character art deco design relaxed chill spot trendy urban bar eclectic cocktail menu local craft beers on tap specialty pizzas food and drink pairing casual and fun atmosphere summer hangouts dog friendly patio social gatherings music lovers night out at the city great staff friendly bartenders unique cocktail creations perfect for date night or group hangout music and cocktails under the stars perfect summer evening spot vibrant nightlife experience modern decor with vintage touches funky bar with character intimate space with large bar area

Vancouver

The Boxcar offers a unique speakeasy experience with a modern twist, featuring a rotating selection of craft beers and inventive cocktails. Its intimate setting and lively outdoor patio make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The bar's proximity to the Cobalt venue allows patrons to enjoy live music, enhancing the vibrant ambiance. While the bar does not have its own kitchen, it partners with the adjacent Pizzeria Farina, providing easy access to delicious pizzas with your drinks.

North America

Canada

Overview of The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar

Located at 917 Main St in Central Vancouver, The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar offers a unique blend of craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. This intimate speakeasy-style bar has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its rotating selection of craft beers and creative cocktails. The establishment has a rich history of fostering a community vibe, making it a perfect spot for friends to gather and unwind.

The Boxcar offers a delightful selection of drinks that cater to various tastes. Signature cocktails are crafted with precision, ensuring a memorable experience for every guest. The bar also features a rotating selection of craft beers, highlighting local breweries and seasonal flavors. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing cocktail or a cold beer, The Boxcar has something for everyone.

Craft cocktails featuring seasonal ingredients

Situated in the lively Central Vancouver neighborhood, The Boxcar is surrounded by a rich cultural scene. Just a stone's throw away from the iconic Cobalt, guests can enjoy live music and vibrant nightlife. The bar's location makes it an ideal spot to kick off a night out or to relax after exploring the local area. With its welcoming atmosphere and eclectic decor, The Boxcar is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of Vancouver's nightlife.

A: Yes, The Boxcar offers outdoor seating for guests to enjoy.

A: Yes, they serve delicious pizzas from nearby Farina’s.

A: Yes, The Boxcar welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area.

Visit The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar Today

Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a drink with friends or a lively atmosphere to kick off your night, The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar in Vancouver is the place to be. Experience the charm and creativity of this unique bar and make your evening unforgettable.

Chill speakeasy in an intimate space featuring changing craft beer taps & creative cocktails.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3bGJIRlV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyQtsDmVxhlQRELLh4j99wLA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3bGJIRlV3EAE

The bar is pretty cool inside and out, but we were really disappointed and won't be coming back. Our cocktail had a massive ice cube
in it, so we actually got barely any actual cocktail. The beer glass hadn't been washed well and had dried lipstick all over it, and worse still, the ice cube had a hair frozen into it.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN4eXBtQlRBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyQtsDmVxhlQRELLh4j99wLA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN4eXBtQlRBEAE

Nice small “boxcar” bar. Excellent seating inside and outside. Great bartender, nice drink selection, and great food in the parking lot.

It’s right next to the Cobalt so you can hear bands playing next door.

Looking for a small to hang with friends that has a nice vibe? Here you go!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqM3VHTlhREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyQtsDmVxhlQRELLh4j99wLA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqM3VHTlhREAE

Cute little spot to hang out with friends, get some good cocktails and enjoy a good pizza from from Farina’s.

They have great but limited seating options inside but the outside patio/parking area is a great space to hangout in the summer time.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3aHFTZE9REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyQtsDmVxhlQRELLh4j99wLA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3aHFTZE9REAE

This place has a really cool setting and decor, but unfortunately let down by the staff. Went here a couple of weeks ago and was greeted by a staff member at the door, who it turns out was also the bartender. It was somewhat busy for a weeknight, but two staff members on. One was in the middle of what looked like a big cocktail order for some existing customers. The one that greeted us then took 10 minutes to serve us. I put that down to things just being busy. Drink was fine. Went up for my second drink and this same bartender proceeded to ignore me for the next 10 minutes whilst I was the only person seemingly waiting. The bartender in question was instead chatting/flirting with another client (for literally 5 minutes), and despite several glances over in my direction and being aware of the fact I was waiting, continuted to ignore my presence. They THEN proceeded to serve someone else before me, and at this point it was clear there was an attitude problem. Due to the behavior of this individual, it did not seem like an inclusive or caring staff approach to customer service. And what could have been made up for by a simple acknowledgement of "I'll be with you in just a minute" turned into what felt like a much more deliberate slight. Not quite sure what the I or the group I was with did to upset this particular staff member, but their handling was extremely unprofessional and childish. After STILL waiting for 10 minutes, it was their colleague who ended up serving me. They were fine. But pretty poor effort overall. Cool setting though - If you go in expecting to get sassy treatment from some rude bar staff here, then you'll probably be fine.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQya05yd01REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyQtsDmVxhlQRELLh4j99wLA/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQya05yd01REAE

Cute and fun little spot for cocktails. We went pretty late and they were sold out unfortunately of some of the drinks we wanted to try. The ones that we did order were delicious! The service was so-so, I felt that our bartender was giving us some attitude though. The point is that it's supposed to be a long and narrow bar but the layout feels a little awkward for me personally. Would recommend checking it out :)

The Boxcar: Vancouver's Hidden Cocktail Bar

The Boxcar, located at 917 Main Street in Vancouver, has been a beloved spot since its opening in 2014. Known for its cozy, speakeasy vibe, it offers a rotating selection of craft beers and inventive cocktails. In 2022, the bar faced potential closure due to the sale of the building but secured a new lease, allowing it to continue operations.

Dine In

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Cocktails

Good for Groups

Allows Dogs

The Boxcar is a chill speakeasy in Central Vancouver, featuring changing craft beer taps and creative cocktails in an intimate space adorned with vintage railway decor.

The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar

The Boxcar is a chill speakeasy in Central Vancouver, featuring an intimate space with changing craft beer taps and creative cocktails. This hidden gem invites patrons to unwind in a rustic atmosphere adorned with vintage railway decor, offering a vibrant nightlife experience.

A curated selection of craft beers, inventive cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages.

Good Company Lager

Main Street Pilsner

Naked Fox IPA

Might As Well Go For A Soda Sour

Joy Ride Cider

Hard Day IPA

Kingpin Pale Ale

Hula Hula Sour

Oaxacan Dreamsicle

Espresso Martini

Subtle Thing

Rice Rum Old Fashioned

Nochinito

Margarita

Boxcar Mule

The Boxcar Menu

The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar menu overview in Vancouver BC Canada Main Street Central Vancouver district 

Nestled in the heart of Central Vancouver on Main Street, The Boxcar offers a delightfully intimate speakeasy experience where craft beer enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike converge. This cozy spot features a changing lineup of local craft beer taps paired with creative cocktails, ideal for those seeking a laid-back vibe with great drink options and an inviting atmosphere.

While The Boxcar focuses primarily on its impressive beverage selection, guests can indulge in tasty eats from nearby Farina’s, known for its authentic pizzas. The outdoor patio and parking lot area provide a fantastic space to enjoy these delicious pizzas alongside your favorite drinks, creating a perfect pairing for a casual night out or a lively evening with friends.

Guests can relish the vibrant local vibe as they savor their mains, often brought in from nearby eateries. This spot is perfect for sharing light bites and enjoying great conversations, amplified by the lively sounds of live music from neighboring venues, making it a memorable social hub in Vancouver’s night scene.

Dessert options complementing your drinks at The Boxcar are generally sourced from local bakeries and dessert spots, offering sweet finishes to your flavorful night out. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance of the outdoor seating to savor these treats with a cocktail or craft beer in hand.

The Boxcar shines brightest with its carefully curated selection of local craft beers and ciders on tap. Highlights include the crisp and refreshing Good Company Lager and the aromatic Main Street Pilsner, perfect for those who appreciate a classic lager or pilsner experience.

 – A bold IPA with vibrant hop character for hop lovers.

 – A playful sour beer infused with cherries and cola gummies, offering a fun twist on traditional sours.

 – A crisp cider showcasing Pacific Northwest apples, ideal for cider enthusiasts.

 – An IPA with crystal malts and hops that delivers a balanced yet robust flavor.

 – A pale ale featuring cascade and mosaic hops, perfect for hop aficionados seeking vibrant citrus and floral notes.

 – A luscious sour beer with passion fruit, pink guava, vanilla, and honey malted oats, delivering a tropical and creamy finish.

Beyond beer and cider, The Boxcar’s cocktail menu dazzles with innovative concoctions crafted by talented bartenders, ensuring each drink provides an unforgettable flavor journey. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or something adventurous and unique, this spot has it covered in a chill, intimate environment.

Experience the perfect blend of local craft beverages, comfortable seating both inside and out, and a dynamic vibe right in the heart of Vancouver’s bustling Main Street scene at The Boxcar.

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Boxcar, Vancouver's top cocktail & beer bar! Savor unique drinks in Central Vancouver's lively atmosphere. Visit now!

The Boxcar: Top Cocktail & Beer Bar in Vancouver

Vancouver Municipality

$2 off taps, $4.50 cans of Good Company Lager, $9 Boxcar Mules, and $9 Cocktail Americanos every day from open until 7 PM.

Happy Hour

Adjacent pizzeria offering authentic Italian pizzas; orders can be placed directly from Farina next door.

Pizzeria Farina

Metro Vancouver

Experience Vancouver's The Boxcar at 917 Main St with craft beers, inventive cocktails, outdoor patio, and lively vibe just steps from Central Vancouver.

The Boxcar Vancouver - Cozy Speakeasy & Craft Beer Bar

Discover The Boxcar in Vancouver for creative cocktails, diverse craft beer selection, outdoor seating, and live music near Cobalt venue - a must-visit spot!

Explore The Boxcar Vancouver - Unique Bar & Live Music

Learn about The Boxcar, Vancouver's cozy, historic bar at 917 Main St, offering top craft beers, inventive cocktails, pet-friendly outdoor patio & friendly staff.

The Boxcar: Vancouver's Hidden Cocktail Bar

Dining and Culinary Delights

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Visit The Boxcar - Cocktail & Beer Bar Today

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