The Cambie Bar & Grill Vancouver Experience Overview

Nestled on the lively Cambie Street in Vancouver, The Cambie Bar & Grill is a legendary local haunt that has been stirring up fun since 1897. Known as Vancouver's oldest bar, this historic alehouse combines a laid-back vibe with a buzzing social scene, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors. Whether you're craving pub grub, a cold beer, or an energetic night with live music, The Cambie offers an authentic and memorable experience in the heart of British Columbia's urban scene.

Vibrant Atmosphere and Historic Charm

Step inside this historic building and you’ll immediately feel the mix of old-world charm and modern energy. The Cambie is famed for its lively crowd, affordable drinks, and a welcoming ambiance that invites casual hangouts and spirited celebrations alike. With a dedicated arcade game area and a playlist that keeps the vibe upbeat, it’s the perfect spot for friends to unwind or to catch a game on one of the many TVs while enjoying classic pub fare.

Delicious Pub Food and Signature Drinks

The Cambie Bar & Grill serves up hearty, generous portions of pub classics that cater to all tastes, including vegetarian options. Favorites like their Margherita pizza, burgers, tacos, and poutine come highly recommended by regulars who appreciate the balance of quality and value. Complement your meal with a handcrafted cocktail made by skilled bartenders who tailor drinks to your flavor preferences, or enjoy a cold beer or glass of wine in a lively, welcoming setting.

Events, Live Music, and Community Vibes

Beyond great food and drinks, The Cambie Bar & Grill hosts live music every Thursday night, adding a dynamic soundtrack to your evening. The venue also functions as a hostel upstairs, fostering a diverse and social environment that attracts travelers and locals alike. Whether you’re in town for brunch, dinner, or late-night drinks, expect a vibrant atmosphere full of energetic crowds, friendly staff, and plenty of entertainment options.

Visitor FAQs

Is The Cambie Bar & Grill still open? Yes, The Cambie Bar & Grill is currently open and operating at 300 Cambie Street, Vancouver.
What are the operating hours? It opens daily at 11:00 AM, closing as late as 3:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, accommodating night owls and early diners alike.
Do they serve food? Yes, a menu full of satisfying pub food, including vegetarian choices, is available all day.
Is there live music? Live music lights up the bar every Thursday night, perfect for music lovers and night out enthusiasts.
Is there a hostel above the bar? Yes, travelers can stay overnight in the hostel located above the bar, making it a unique Vancouver experience.

Community Sentiment and What to Expect

The Cambie Bar & Grill enjoys a mixed but passionate community sentiment. It is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, affordable drinks, and rich history. Many patrons praise the friendly service and the special events that keep the energy high. However, some visitors note that food quality and service consistency can vary, reflecting the challenges of maintaining a vibrant nightspot with a diverse crowd. Despite this, The Cambie remains a beloved fixture in Vancouver's nightlife and social scene, drawing a broad spectrum of guests looking for an authentic and fun experience.

The Cambie Bar & Grill: A Historical Overview of Vancouver’s Oldest Bar.

Established in 1897, The Cambie Bar & Grill holds the title of Vancouver's oldest bar, embodying over a century of rich history and vibrant social life. Nestled at 300 Cambie St in the heart of Central Vancouver, this establishment has seen the city's transformation while maintaining its identity as a beloved gathering spot.

Timeline of Significant Events.

1886: Original building destroyed in the Great Vancouver Fire.
1897: Rebuilt and reopened as The Cambie Bar & Grill.
2019: Temporarily closed on November 30, 2019, due to property sale.
2025: Currently operating as a bar and hostel.

The Cambie Bar & Grill has always been more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. With its distinctive charm and lively atmosphere, the bar reflects the evolving culture of Vancouver. Although it faced a significant setback in 2019, the establishment's resilience shines through as it continues to serve hearty pub grub, craft cocktails, and a warm atmosphere.

A Legacy of Community and Culture.

The Cambie Bar & Grill is not only a piece of Vancouver's history but also a testament to the spirit of community. Known for its friendly service, great food, and regularly scheduled live music, it continues to attract diverse crowds. The bar's history resonates with stories from patrons who remember the laughter, celebrations, and even the quieter moments shared here, forging lasting memories.

The Cambie Bar & Grill Vancouver overview and experience overview

Located at the heart of Vancouver on historic Cambie Street, The Cambie Bar & Grill stands as a beloved local landmark since 1897. This lively alehouse offers visitors a unique fusion of tradition and vibrant nightlife, making it a popular destination for both locals and travelers seeking casual pub grub, affordable drinks, and an engaging social atmosphere in Central Vancouver.

atmosphere and entertainment

The Cambie Bar & Grill is renowned for its lively and inclusive atmosphere. Nestled within a historic building, the venue retains a charming character that enhances the guest experience. The space routinely fills with an enthusiastic crowd drawn by live music performances, karaoke nights, and a fun arcade game area, ensuring entertainment beyond just food and drinks. Outdoor seating options and wheelchair accessibility make this spot welcoming for a diverse range of visitors.

food and drink offerings

Guests can enjoy a broad menu featuring pub classics such as burgers, fries, and the highly praised Margherita pizza praised for its size and flavor balance. The Cambie serves an extensive range of drinks including beer, wine, coffee, and custom cocktails expertly crafted by attentive bartenders who tailor drinks to individual tastes. Despite some mixed reviews on food quality and occasional wait times, the generous portions and affordable pricing contribute to its popularity.

customer experience and accessibility

The staff at The Cambie Bar & Grill are widely recognized for their friendliness and professionalism, contributing positively to the welcoming atmosphere. The venue supports dine-in, takeout, and delivery, accommodating various visitor preferences. Its location near paid parking lots and street parking enhances convenience. However, some patrons have noted inconsistent service and occasional delays, reflecting the challenges of a busy bar environment. Notably, the establishment has seen changes over the years, including a brief closure in 2019, but has maintained its status as a community hub.

Pros : Historic venue with rich local heritage; lively atmosphere with live music and arcade games; affordable drinks and pub food; offers outdoor seating and wheelchair access; draws a diverse and welcoming crowd.
Cons : Some inconsistency in food quality and service; occasional wait times and customer service issues reported; experienced a brief closure in 2019 which may affect continuity.

3.5

Pub, American, Pub grub

300 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2N3, Canada

(604) 688-9158

Closed - Opens 10:00 AM

Monday

11:00–01:00

Tuesday

11:00–02:00

Wednesday

11:00–01:00

Thursday