The Victorian Hotel’s convenient downtown location puts it on the cusp of Gastown. Always a popular destination, Gastown grew from a single tavern founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton back in 1867. Today, the district retains its historic charm and independent spirit, as well as being a major dining hub.
This didn’t happen by accident, as the Heritage Density Program of 2002 set the stage for developers to rehabilitate old buildings. And an ideal use for many of them was to be converted into an assortment of dining establishments. Here are just a few to check out.
The Irish Heather: Located in the heart of historic Gastown, this long-standing Gastropub has garnered many accolades for its service, food, alcohol & ambiance. In a world filled with “Plastic Paddy” establishments, the Irish Heather stands out as a beacon of authenticity. It offers a wide variety of food, and even has vegan-friendly offerings. But there isn’t a shortage of meaty options either, such as a hearty bacon double cheeseburger, turkey meatloaf, and an apple barbecue pulled pork sandwich.
The Charles Bar: This bar supports the ground floor of the famous (and reimagined) Woodward’s building. The room’s airy, modern design and unique V-shape allow for guests to crowd the bar watching sports while others can quietly enjoy well-crafted food, craft beer or cocktails around the corner. Local Vancouver DJs round out the venue on weekend nights, dropping everything from classic hip-hop and R&B to Top 40 songs. Menu items include pork-belly flatbread, flatbread pizzas, wok-fried squid, pork-belly sliders, beer pickles, arancini, delicious nachos, and more.
Steamworks: For over 20 years, Steamworks has been a central attraction in Gastown. Most notable for its functional one-of-a-kind steam generated brewery, they have built an entire brewpub experience around it, featuring menu items like roasted blueberry-maple chicken, New York striploin, bacon-wrapped filet, and the “expense account steak”—a 12-ounce whopper with lobster tail, tiger prawn skewer, herbed mushrooms, and garlic toast.
The Alibi Room: Based in a heritage site over a hundred years old and a short distance from Vancouver’s trade and shipping ports, the Alibi Room’s head chef has given an understated sophistication to their very accessible menu, providing familiar, comforting dishes with an emphasis on quality. Their meat, fish, and poultry are either sourced locally, ocean-friendly, naturally raised, or free run.
When you’re done sampling the best food and drinks Gastown has to offer, enjoy the comfort and indulgences of the Victorian Hotel, such as luxury pillow tops, soaker tubs, high-speed WiFi, and flat-screen TVs. There’s even a complimentary Healthy Start breakfast in the morning, so you’ll be all set for your next adventure, gastronomic or otherwise.
To learn more or to make a reservation, or call 1.877.681.6369