Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Just a block from the party-hard madness (especially on weekends) of the Granville
Strip, this is a great alternative to staggering around on the street wondering where you
left your pants.
MARIO'S COFFEE EXPRESS
COFFEE
(595 Howe St; 7am-4pm Mon-Fri; Burrard)
A java lover's favorite that only downtown
office workers seem to know about. You'll wake up and smell the coffee long before
you make it through the door here. The rich aromatic brews served up by the man him-
self are the kind of ambrosia that make Starbucks drinkers weep. You might even for-
give the 1980s Italian pop percolating through the shop.
Hidden in plain view, this is arguably downtown's best for a cup of coffee.
11am-midnight Sun-Tue, to 1am Wed-Sat;
6)
The area's loudest and proudest gay neighborhood pub, this friendly joint is all about
the patio, which spills onto Davie St like an overturned wine glass. Expect to take part
in the ongoing summer evening pastime of ogling the passing locals or retreat to a
quieter spot inside for a few lagers or a naughty cocktail: anyone for a Sicilian Kiss or a
Slippery Nipple?
Perfect place to meet up before, during or after the Pride Parade.
BACCHUS LOUNGE
BAR
(
www.wedgewoodhotel.com
;
845 Hornby St; noon-midnight Sun-Wed, to 1am Thu-Sat; 5)
A
roaring hearth on a chilly day is the main attraction at Bacchus, a decadent bar with a
gentleman's club ambience on the lobby level of the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa. Sink in-
to a deep leather chair, adjust your monocle and listen to the piano player as you sip a
signature Red Satin Slip martini of vodka, raspberry liqueur and cranberry juice.
There's also a handy small-plate menu for the incurably hungry (go for the cheese).
CELEBRITIES
GAY
(
www.celebritiesnightclub.com
;
1022 Davie St; 8pm-3am Wed, 10pm-3am Thu, 9pm-3am Tue,
Fri & Sat; 6)
The city's fave gay club, Celebrities has recently undergone a long-over-
due renovation, elevating its room to a new level of mood-lit cool. The club hosts a
