Vancouver Cocktail Week isn’t just about the drinks—it’s a full sensory experience where food plays just as much of a starring role.
From March 2 to 9, 2025, VCW will offer plenty of ways for food lovers to indulge, from cocktail-paired dinners to whisky tastings and creative twists on afternoon tea. Whether it’s a multi-course Italian feast, an exploration of Japanese hanami traditions, or a deep dive into agave spirits, this year’s lineup proves that great cocktails and great food go hand in hand.
Presented by The Alchemist—a sibling publication to V.I.A.—VCW 2025 will bring together some of the city’s top chefs, bartenders, and international guests for a week of immersive dining experiences.
Here’s a selection of standout VCW events where the food is just as exciting as the cocktails.
Signature Sunday Cocktail Brunch
Vancouver Cocktail Week kicks off with this always-popular brunch, a lively event featuring a cocktail and small bites reception followed by a gourmet four-course brunch. Chef Adam Middleton puts a creative spin on classic brunch dishes, expertly paired with inventive cocktails made with premium spirits. Brand ambassadors will be on hand to mingle and share insights into the drinks, making this a must-attend event for cocktail lovers.
When: March 2 from 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: ARC Restaurant at the Fairmont Waterfront - 900 Canada Pl
Cost: $150 per person. Buy tickets online.
Sip & Guzzle Pop-Up
New York City’s Ben Yabrow brings his celebrated bar, Sip & Guzzle, to Vancouver for an exclusive pop-up. Guests can choose from five signature cocktails, each paired with a thoughtfully curated Good Thief appetizer. This intimate experience is by reservation only to ensure a relaxed and immersive tasting.
When: March 3; various seatings starting at 7 p.m.
Where: Good Thief - 3336 Main St
Cost: $65 and up (single tickets and tables for 2, 3, 4 available). Buy tickets online.
Hanami at Minami
Inspired by Japan’s cherished hanami tradition of cherry blossom viewing, Minami presents a four-course dinner paired with cocktails featuring Giffard Liqueurs from France. Guests will enjoy a seasonal menu designed to capture the beauty of spring, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktail pairings available.
When: March 4 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Minami - 1118 Mainland St
Cost: $148. Buy tickets online.
Agave Afternoon at The Watson
Dive into the world of agave spirits with an afternoon tasting featuring mezcal, tequila, aperitivos, and amaros from the Beverage Collection portfolio. Thoughtfully paired small bites enhance the tasting experience, offering a delicious journey through the flavours of Central and South America.
When: March 5 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: The Watson - 3080 Main St
Cost: $100 per person. Buy tickets online.
A Locavore Cocktail Adventure
The Acorn and Odd Society Spirits team up for a one-night-only dining experience celebrating local ingredients and craft cocktails. This exclusive event features a multi-course meal at one of Vancouver's best vegetarian restaurants paired with cocktails crafted by The Acorn’s Lewis Reid and Odd Society’s Mia Glanz. A showcase of Vancouver’s locavore spirit, this event is a must for those who love sustainable dining. Must be 19+ to attend. Tickets are available for 2 or 4 people.
When: March 5; staggered seatings starting at 5:30 p.m.
Where: The Acorn, 3995 Main St
Cost: $344 for two people. Buy tickets online.
Festa della Primavera: A Cocktail-Paired Dinner
Celebrate spring in true Italian style at Carlino’s Festa della Primavera, an immersive floral dining experience inspired by Italy’s flower festivals. A four-course dinner featuring traditional Italian ingredients will be paired with innovative cocktails, bringing the vibrancy of spring to the table.
When: March 5 at 7 p.m.
Where: Carlino - 1115 Alberni St
Cost: $181.75 per person. Buy tickets online.
The Dalmore Tasting and Pairing
An evening of refined whisky and expertly crafted cuisine awaits at Elem, one of Vancouver’s hottest new restaurants. This tasting event features a curated selection of The Dalmore’s finest whiskies, thoughtfully paired with dishes designed by chef Vish Mayekar. Beverage director Winnie Sun will also present Dalmore-inspired cocktails with a creative twist.
When: March 6 from 5 – 8 p.m.
Where: Elem - 2110 Main St
Cost: $235 per person. Buy tickets online.
Cherry Blossom Tipsy Tea
Notch8’s afternoon tea gets a “tipsy” update with liquor-infused savoury and sweet bites, paired with Fairmont’s Lot35 tea selection. Guests will enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and a signature cocktail, with the option to indulge further in creative “teatails” crafted by the Notch8 beverage team.
When: March 8 and 9 with seatings at noon and 3 p.m.
Where: Notch8 Restaurant & Bar - 900 W Georgia St (Fairmont Hotel Vancouver)
Cost: $115 per person. Buy tickets online.
Black & White Gala
Vancouver Cocktail Week’s grand finale is an elegant evening in the historic Spanish Ballroom, where guests will enjoy expertly crafted cocktails from top bartenders, cocktail-inspired food, and live music. The night begins with an exclusive VIP hour featuring canapés and cocktails before opening up to a vibrant celebration with more than two dozen premium spirits brands. A portion of proceeds supports Mind The Bar.
When: March 8 at 7 p.m. (VIP), 8–11 p.m. (General Admission)
Where: Rosewood Hotel Georgia - 801 W Georgia St
Cost: $155 (General), $195 (VIP). Buy tickets online.
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