Alibi Room

A Gastown craft-beer institution with 50-plus rotating taps and honest, locally sourced comfort food. A friend sends you here for the beer list, not a scene. Opens at 4pm only, and the room fills fast on weekends, so come early or expect a wait.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What's the beer situation here?

This is the draw: over 50 rotating taps mixing BC craft breweries with harder-to-find imports. Ask the staff for the 'Frat Bat' sampler if you want to taste a lineup before committing. The list changes constantly, so don't get attached to a favourite.

Is the food any good or is it just a beer bar?

The food genuinely holds up. Think a solid burger, charcuterie, and locally sourced comfort plates that pair well with whatever you're drinking. It's pub fare done with care, not an afterthought.

Is it family or group friendly?

It's fine for a relaxed group and they can seat parties, but it's a bar-forward room that gets loud and busy at night, so it's not ideal for young kids in the evening. Come early with a group and book ahead.

What time does the Alibi Room open?

They open at 4pm every day. Kitchen and taps run until 10pm Sunday through Thursday and until midnight Friday and Saturday. There's no lunch service, so plan accordingly.

Do I need a reservation at the Alibi Room?

They take reservations and it's smart to book for weekend evenings or groups, since the room fills quickly after 6pm. Walk-ins work best on weekday afternoons right when they open at 4pm. Solo? Grab a spot at the bar.

Is the Alibi Room touristy?

It sits in Gastown so it gets its share of visitors, but it's a real local institution that Vancouverites still go out of their way for. The crowd skews toward people who actually care about beer, which keeps it grounded.

How do I get to the Alibi Room without a car?

It's about a 7-minute walk from Waterfront Station, which connects the SkyTrain, SeaBus and West Coast Express. Gastown parking is limited and pricey, so transit or walking is the easy call.

Is it expensive?

It's mid-range and fair for what you get. Pints and plates are reasonable for downtown Vancouver, and their afternoon snack menu (roughly 3-6pm) is a cheaper way to graze while you work through the tap list.

Nearby in Ask Vancouver

• Guilt & CompanyBar0.47 km · 6 min walk
• ChinatownNeighborhood0.53 km · 7 min walk
• Bao BeiRestaurant0.55 km · 7 min walk
• Chinese Canadian MuseumMuseum0.56 km · 7 min walk
• The Keefer BarBar0.56 km · 7 min walk