Steamworks Brewing Company
BEER AVG
3.68/5
3.68/5
Type: Brewery, Bar, Eatery
375 Water St
Vancouver, British Columbia, V6B 5C6
Canada
(604) 689-2739 | map
steamworks.com
Notes:
No notes at this time.
Added by 49degrees
Reviews: 28 | Ratings: 52
4.01/5 rDev +4.4%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4.25 | service: 4 | selection: 3.75 | food: 4
Spent a weekebd abd hit two microspots. Steamworks is in a great location in Old Vancouver. Had two raspberry frambosin. Outstandi g and strong. Downside is no bottles or offsale. Growlers only and can't take back to US.
★ 225 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4.25 | service: 4 | selection: 3.75 | food: 4
Spent a weekebd abd hit two microspots. Steamworks is in a great location in Old Vancouver. Had two raspberry frambosin. Outstandi g and strong. Downside is no bottles or offsale. Growlers only and can't take back to US.
★ 225 characters
3.54/5 rDev -7.8%
vibe: 4.25 | quality: 3.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.25 | food: 3.75
First time ever in Vancouver, was looking to sample some Canadian microbrews. Headed down to gastown (pretty cool location) and into Steamworks.
From the entrance, the place looks tiny and upscale, but the hostess leads us down a sweet staircase in the back into a cool basement area. We get seated on some big chairs and couch with some sort of a cool, old trunk for a table. Pretty cool atmosphere.
Order some beer, but they are out of their "Signature Pale Ale", how is that possible I ask? Major deduction for being unable to supply me with a beer they consider to be signature. I order the Empress IPA instead. The Empress was pretty meh. Not much flavor compared to many other IPAs I have had. At least the food was pretty good.
★ 737 characters
vibe: 4.25 | quality: 3.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.25 | food: 3.75
First time ever in Vancouver, was looking to sample some Canadian microbrews. Headed down to gastown (pretty cool location) and into Steamworks.
From the entrance, the place looks tiny and upscale, but the hostess leads us down a sweet staircase in the back into a cool basement area. We get seated on some big chairs and couch with some sort of a cool, old trunk for a table. Pretty cool atmosphere.
Order some beer, but they are out of their "Signature Pale Ale", how is that possible I ask? Major deduction for being unable to supply me with a beer they consider to be signature. I order the Empress IPA instead. The Empress was pretty meh. Not much flavor compared to many other IPAs I have had. At least the food was pretty good.
★ 737 characters
3.84/5 rDev 0%
vibe: 4 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 4
My wife and I were in Vancouver for the weekend and this joint was recommended to us. It's down by the pier in the Gaslamp district, which is a pretty cool part of the city. Really great atmosphere, and the place was packed when we went. Being by the water it seems like they get a lot of tourist traffic from cruise ships and whatnot. Despite being busy we found a seat at the bar and the bartenders were helping us very quickly. They were very knowlegable about their products, as well, which is always a plus. We didn't eat while we were there, but the menu had your bbasic pubfare. The beers ended up being a bit pricey, but to be expected in a tourist trap. Decent beer shop attached to it, also, carrying some US brews for take home. All in all, a good visit.
★ 765 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 4
My wife and I were in Vancouver for the weekend and this joint was recommended to us. It's down by the pier in the Gaslamp district, which is a pretty cool part of the city. Really great atmosphere, and the place was packed when we went. Being by the water it seems like they get a lot of tourist traffic from cruise ships and whatnot. Despite being busy we found a seat at the bar and the bartenders were helping us very quickly. They were very knowlegable about their products, as well, which is always a plus. We didn't eat while we were there, but the menu had your bbasic pubfare. The beers ended up being a bit pricey, but to be expected in a tourist trap. Decent beer shop attached to it, also, carrying some US brews for take home. All in all, a good visit.
★ 765 characters
3.75/5 rDev -2.3%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 3 | selection: 4 | food: 4
The setup is nice with the brewing equipment visible and the music is not to loud are grungy. It is at a good location, very close to the sky train and a lot of other good restaurants and shops downtown.
The food is quite good, especially the beer soup. The menu has quite a bit of variety and is decently priced.
The seasonal beers can be quite tasty, though I find the year rounds to be only OK. I do enjoy how easy it is to get a free sample of beer to wet the pallet and make my decision easier.
★ 501 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 3 | selection: 4 | food: 4
The setup is nice with the brewing equipment visible and the music is not to loud are grungy. It is at a good location, very close to the sky train and a lot of other good restaurants and shops downtown.
The food is quite good, especially the beer soup. The menu has quite a bit of variety and is decently priced.
The seasonal beers can be quite tasty, though I find the year rounds to be only OK. I do enjoy how easy it is to get a free sample of beer to wet the pallet and make my decision easier.
★ 501 characters
3.78/5 rDev -1.6%
vibe: 4 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4.5
Summary: The food is better than the beer.
Crawling distance from the Convention Centre and many downtown hotels. Retro European vibe, black and with tile floor, lots of outdoor seating, two bars. It is a big place. I went there on a Friday afternoon, too early for it to be crowded. It too five or so minutes from the time I sat at the bar to the time I was recognized. Don't know what was up with that. While they didn't go out of their way to ask me if I wanted food or another beer, they were very open about what were some of the better Canadian beers available and other places in town I should check out once I let them know I was interested in drinking quality beer.
There were about eight or so beers on tap, with their stout on nitro. I sampled the IPA, Pale, and Stout. Nothing overwhelming, so I went with the IPA. Pints and Imperial Pints are available. Ordered the Montreal smoked meat sandwich as a light lunch at an unlight price (~12 CAD). At least it was very tasty. Overall tab was about 20 CAD before tip.
Would I go back? The food was quite good and it may be worth sampling something else, although the beer was nothing special.
Note: The owners recently opened a second location next door called Rogue Kitchen and Wetbar (not to be confused with the brewery out of Oregon).
★ 1,301 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4.5
Summary: The food is better than the beer.
Crawling distance from the Convention Centre and many downtown hotels. Retro European vibe, black and with tile floor, lots of outdoor seating, two bars. It is a big place. I went there on a Friday afternoon, too early for it to be crowded. It too five or so minutes from the time I sat at the bar to the time I was recognized. Don't know what was up with that. While they didn't go out of their way to ask me if I wanted food or another beer, they were very open about what were some of the better Canadian beers available and other places in town I should check out once I let them know I was interested in drinking quality beer.
There were about eight or so beers on tap, with their stout on nitro. I sampled the IPA, Pale, and Stout. Nothing overwhelming, so I went with the IPA. Pints and Imperial Pints are available. Ordered the Montreal smoked meat sandwich as a light lunch at an unlight price (~12 CAD). At least it was very tasty. Overall tab was about 20 CAD before tip.
Would I go back? The food was quite good and it may be worth sampling something else, although the beer was nothing special.
Note: The owners recently opened a second location next door called Rogue Kitchen and Wetbar (not to be confused with the brewery out of Oregon).
★ 1,301 characters
3.88/5 rDev +1%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
Ate lunch here with my wife on Canada Day, 02 July 2010. There is a huge patio outside with umbrellas and tables with a decent view of Canada Place. We chose to sit inside today. There is a major difference between upstairs and downstairs. Upstairs, it's much more of a sunny and polished look. Downstairs, it's a bit darker, and more cavernous and seems like a place to hang out with a pint. Service was good, as our waitress was friendly and told us a bit about the day's scheduled activities. Selection was pretty good for a brewpub, with about 8 house beers on tap. I tried the Sour Cherry Ale and the Pilsener. The Ale was very tasty for a fruit beer. We both enjoyed the food. Prices were a tad high for beers, but the food prices evened things out. Not a bad place to visit, with an easy two minute walk from Canada Place.
★ 829 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
Ate lunch here with my wife on Canada Day, 02 July 2010. There is a huge patio outside with umbrellas and tables with a decent view of Canada Place. We chose to sit inside today. There is a major difference between upstairs and downstairs. Upstairs, it's much more of a sunny and polished look. Downstairs, it's a bit darker, and more cavernous and seems like a place to hang out with a pint. Service was good, as our waitress was friendly and told us a bit about the day's scheduled activities. Selection was pretty good for a brewpub, with about 8 house beers on tap. I tried the Sour Cherry Ale and the Pilsener. The Ale was very tasty for a fruit beer. We both enjoyed the food. Prices were a tad high for beers, but the food prices evened things out. Not a bad place to visit, with an easy two minute walk from Canada Place.
★ 829 characters
3.78/5 rDev -1.6%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 4
If you can locate the Harbour Centre in downtown Vancouver, then you should be able to locate Steamworks, which sits across the street on the side closer to the waterfront. The inside has a modern feel to it, with the restaurant being located downstairs from the bar. But what's with that gingerbread scent in the air? The windows looking outside are wide, giving you a good look at downtown activity.
About seven regular styles are offered, such as oatmeal stout, pale ale, and IPA. The seasonal being offered was a witbier, which I didn't try. Kostrizer was also offered on-tap as a guest beer. The beers I tried was quite good, especially the oatmeal stout on-nitro, which was a tasty treat. No fancy glassware here: "sleeves" (shaker pint glass) and imperial pints are the glass types offered. It took some time to be served from the bartender, but after that 20 minute string of orders she dealt with, she turned out to be easy to chat with, and she helped with one of my beer-related questions.
Steamworks gets a good mark from this BA. It's easy to find. And there are several good styles of beer made and offered here. Try it out.
★ 1,142 characters
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 4
If you can locate the Harbour Centre in downtown Vancouver, then you should be able to locate Steamworks, which sits across the street on the side closer to the waterfront. The inside has a modern feel to it, with the restaurant being located downstairs from the bar. But what's with that gingerbread scent in the air? The windows looking outside are wide, giving you a good look at downtown activity.
About seven regular styles are offered, such as oatmeal stout, pale ale, and IPA. The seasonal being offered was a witbier, which I didn't try. Kostrizer was also offered on-tap as a guest beer. The beers I tried was quite good, especially the oatmeal stout on-nitro, which was a tasty treat. No fancy glassware here: "sleeves" (shaker pint glass) and imperial pints are the glass types offered. It took some time to be served from the bartender, but after that 20 minute string of orders she dealt with, she turned out to be easy to chat with, and she helped with one of my beer-related questions.
Steamworks gets a good mark from this BA. It's easy to find. And there are several good styles of beer made and offered here. Try it out.
★ 1,142 characters
3.5/5 rDev -8.9%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.5
At the junction of the cruise/pier area and the gaslight district (AKA tourist central). The building is nice on the outside. On the inside it's a bunch of slightly separated rooms at odd 1/2 levels. A couple of small bars. Large outdoor area was very busy. We grabbed a spot at the back bar.
About 7 on tap, ranging from an IPA to a stout. Things were a bit pricey, at about $6.50 Canadian a pint. Seems normal for Vancouver though, especially a tourist area. Service was efficient but slightly detached. No beer advocating going on here.
Decent stop in Vancouver, but then high-tail it up the street to the Alibi Room.
★ 621 characters
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.5
At the junction of the cruise/pier area and the gaslight district (AKA tourist central). The building is nice on the outside. On the inside it's a bunch of slightly separated rooms at odd 1/2 levels. A couple of small bars. Large outdoor area was very busy. We grabbed a spot at the back bar.
About 7 on tap, ranging from an IPA to a stout. Things were a bit pricey, at about $6.50 Canadian a pint. Seems normal for Vancouver though, especially a tourist area. Service was efficient but slightly detached. No beer advocating going on here.
Decent stop in Vancouver, but then high-tail it up the street to the Alibi Room.
★ 621 characters
3.76/5 rDev -2.1%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5
Clearly a tourist-trap sort of brewpub, but it's not Steamworks' fault they're right on the water and in the heart of the touristy district of Vancouver's downtown area. But their beers do seem to be common denominator brews--beers that aren't at all poor, but are also fairly run-of-the-mill to the average geek. We tried three different beers and did some sharing amongst the three of us, and the consensus was that it was all "pretty good."
It was a pretty warm day so we sat outside, but they still had the overhead heaters on. I felt like I lost five pounds just sitting there in the heat. It was crowded so I couldn't move around very well, and I didn't bother asking them to turn it down or off, as we only stopped in for a quick thirst-slaking.
I kind of wish we'd sat inside. What an incredible vibe, with two levels and the feel of a posh old hotel lounge, but expanded and made comfortable for the everyday joe. But it's touristy and definitely doesn't feel like a neighborhood hangout. Seemed massive, in terms of square footage. Just duck in if you're in the area, if just use the restroom, so you can check out the interior. As for their beers, I wouldn't go back for them, but they did the job I guess. So, a decent place, something to check out once, but not a mindblowing must-return-to destination.
★ 1,319 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3.5 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5
Clearly a tourist-trap sort of brewpub, but it's not Steamworks' fault they're right on the water and in the heart of the touristy district of Vancouver's downtown area. But their beers do seem to be common denominator brews--beers that aren't at all poor, but are also fairly run-of-the-mill to the average geek. We tried three different beers and did some sharing amongst the three of us, and the consensus was that it was all "pretty good."
It was a pretty warm day so we sat outside, but they still had the overhead heaters on. I felt like I lost five pounds just sitting there in the heat. It was crowded so I couldn't move around very well, and I didn't bother asking them to turn it down or off, as we only stopped in for a quick thirst-slaking.
I kind of wish we'd sat inside. What an incredible vibe, with two levels and the feel of a posh old hotel lounge, but expanded and made comfortable for the everyday joe. But it's touristy and definitely doesn't feel like a neighborhood hangout. Seemed massive, in terms of square footage. Just duck in if you're in the area, if just use the restroom, so you can check out the interior. As for their beers, I wouldn't go back for them, but they did the job I guess. So, a decent place, something to check out once, but not a mindblowing must-return-to destination.
★ 1,319 characters
4/5 rDev +4.2%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4.5
The wife and I were up visiting Vancouver for a few days and thought I'd check this place out. Stopped in for lunch. Decent view of the historic street on one end of the place and an alright view of the harbour on the other end. The place is set up almost nicely with 2 bars, and they are soon adding a third. Service was great, as the waiters knew the beer they they carried. The food selection was stellar! This was the best offerings I've seen in a brewpub. I was very impressed. My wife got an open-faced turkey sandwich with a salad, that was very good; and I got a lamb burger with fries. This was excellent! The beer selection for this time was pretty average, with 5 or 6 of their normal offerings and 1 seasonal, a Belgian Wit. I got their Empress IPA which was pretty good. I should have gotten their sampler as I most likely will never be back to this area any time soon. Ah well. I really enjoyed this place and would recommend it to anybody.
★ 954 characters
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4.5
The wife and I were up visiting Vancouver for a few days and thought I'd check this place out. Stopped in for lunch. Decent view of the historic street on one end of the place and an alright view of the harbour on the other end. The place is set up almost nicely with 2 bars, and they are soon adding a third. Service was great, as the waiters knew the beer they they carried. The food selection was stellar! This was the best offerings I've seen in a brewpub. I was very impressed. My wife got an open-faced turkey sandwich with a salad, that was very good; and I got a lamb burger with fries. This was excellent! The beer selection for this time was pretty average, with 5 or 6 of their normal offerings and 1 seasonal, a Belgian Wit. I got their Empress IPA which was pretty good. I should have gotten their sampler as I most likely will never be back to this area any time soon. Ah well. I really enjoyed this place and would recommend it to anybody.
★ 954 characters
3.1/5 rDev -19.3%
vibe: 4 | quality: 2.5 | service: 4 | selection: 2.5
Had the IPA during a stop off here on day one of my trip. I was immediately impressed with the space, décor, and view. The lower level is really relaxing.
The IPA was just mediocre and dissapointing. It was one dimensional and no better than average. I'm told the stout is pretty good but did not stick around to try it.
The service was nice and friendly and they were well staffed. All and all a tourist trap with so so beer great views and nice décor.
I'd hit the Alibi Room or the railway for beer before going here.
★ 524 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 2.5 | service: 4 | selection: 2.5
Had the IPA during a stop off here on day one of my trip. I was immediately impressed with the space, décor, and view. The lower level is really relaxing.
The IPA was just mediocre and dissapointing. It was one dimensional and no better than average. I'm told the stout is pretty good but did not stick around to try it.
The service was nice and friendly and they were well staffed. All and all a tourist trap with so so beer great views and nice décor.
I'd hit the Alibi Room or the railway for beer before going here.
★ 524 characters
3.19/5 rDev -16.9%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3 | service: 2.5 | selection: 3.5
I really like the atmosphere of this place, especially the downstairs lounge area. Very comfortable and exactly what I want in a larger sized pub. The quality of everything seemed a little off to me. The only beer that really stood out was the light lager... i found it particularly good for the style. The IPA's were simple, but decent for the style, but the rest were either lacking character or had a lot of characters I don't expect in my beer. The service seemed pretty good for a lot of tables, but was very slow at mine. They didn't seem overly busy, just a little careless. Their selection was good with a light lager, 2 IPA's, a pale ale, a dubbel and a couple other things on tap, and they had a cream ale from another brewery. The food and beer seemed a bit pricey, 5 for a pint, and a little bit high for a large menu of pub food. I don't think I'll go back again, but it was worth a stop.
★ 901 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3 | service: 2.5 | selection: 3.5
I really like the atmosphere of this place, especially the downstairs lounge area. Very comfortable and exactly what I want in a larger sized pub. The quality of everything seemed a little off to me. The only beer that really stood out was the light lager... i found it particularly good for the style. The IPA's were simple, but decent for the style, but the rest were either lacking character or had a lot of characters I don't expect in my beer. The service seemed pretty good for a lot of tables, but was very slow at mine. They didn't seem overly busy, just a little careless. Their selection was good with a light lager, 2 IPA's, a pale ale, a dubbel and a couple other things on tap, and they had a cream ale from another brewery. The food and beer seemed a bit pricey, 5 for a pint, and a little bit high for a large menu of pub food. I don't think I'll go back again, but it was worth a stop.
★ 901 characters
3.86/5 rDev +0.5%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5
Although I have bee to Vancouver a number of times, this was my first chance to visit Steamworks. Easy to find, and a great view of the water and mountains. Large place, outdoor patio seating, restaurant, and downstairs bar.
I took a seat at the bar, and was greeted promptly. Tried a couple different beers, both very good. Their Heroica Oatmeal Stout was a personal favorite.
The service was great, did not have to wait for a beer. No time for food this time, but everything looked good.
This is a classic brewpub, must go back.
★ 532 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5
Although I have bee to Vancouver a number of times, this was my first chance to visit Steamworks. Easy to find, and a great view of the water and mountains. Large place, outdoor patio seating, restaurant, and downstairs bar.
I took a seat at the bar, and was greeted promptly. Tried a couple different beers, both very good. Their Heroica Oatmeal Stout was a personal favorite.
The service was great, did not have to wait for a beer. No time for food this time, but everything looked good.
This is a classic brewpub, must go back.
★ 532 characters
4.05/5 rDev +5.5%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
Had a quick stop in Vancouver and wondered past this place on my way to Gastown. Very good location.
I really liked the "feel" of the place. Comfortable chairs, lots of wood, great view of the water, etc. A little bit of a yuppy/tourist feel, but I was a tourist so I didn't mind! Very clean.
They had about 6 brews on tap. All three we ordered were quite good.
Service was very good and very friendly. We were there for a Saturday lunch and it got packed very quickly. Big line to get in, so go early.
Food was good. We had the fish-n-chips and the pesto pizza. Both were very nice.
Overall, this is a very nice place to go if you are in Vancouver. Well worth it.
★ 672 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
Had a quick stop in Vancouver and wondered past this place on my way to Gastown. Very good location.
I really liked the "feel" of the place. Comfortable chairs, lots of wood, great view of the water, etc. A little bit of a yuppy/tourist feel, but I was a tourist so I didn't mind! Very clean.
They had about 6 brews on tap. All three we ordered were quite good.
Service was very good and very friendly. We were there for a Saturday lunch and it got packed very quickly. Big line to get in, so go early.
Food was good. We had the fish-n-chips and the pesto pizza. Both were very nice.
Overall, this is a very nice place to go if you are in Vancouver. Well worth it.
★ 672 characters
3.94/5 rDev +2.6%
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4
This is a popular spot in downtown Vancouver, near the water and a nice view. There is a cellar area to hang out at the bar or raw tables, or classy tables upstairs. It was busy late Tuesday night with lots of people eating, mostly. It is a corporate run place and tries to meet or exceed comparable US places. I think it may. The stouts were interesting, and the place certainly stands up to some chains. The staff is rained on basic statements about the beers. Perhaps another day another time to get to the brewmaster. Visited with Tigglmtl.
★ 544 characters
vibe: 3.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4
This is a popular spot in downtown Vancouver, near the water and a nice view. There is a cellar area to hang out at the bar or raw tables, or classy tables upstairs. It was busy late Tuesday night with lots of people eating, mostly. It is a corporate run place and tries to meet or exceed comparable US places. I think it may. The stouts were interesting, and the place certainly stands up to some chains. The staff is rained on basic statements about the beers. Perhaps another day another time to get to the brewmaster. Visited with Tigglmtl.
★ 544 characters
4/5 rDev +4.2%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Steamworks is a piece of Nostalgia for me. I discovered it when I had just turned 20. I knew absolutely nothing about craft beer, including the fact that it existed. The girl I was with asked for "something wheaty, like a Begian." That sentence in itself confused me, but when I had the witbier it was like a whole new world opened up in front of me.
Flash forward: 2007. The revisit. I tried three of the offerings, the Porter, IPA, and Witbier, and all were adequate if not slightly above average for the style. There is two levels, both spacious and relaxing. The girlfriend and I sat by a window, and did the crossword, read, and were served promptly when our beers emptied. There were about 6-8 beers on tap when we were there, all house offerings, two were seasonals. All we had for food was an order of yam fries, which is hard to screw up, and they didn't. All in all a great place to waste an afternoon with some good beer.
★ 935 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Steamworks is a piece of Nostalgia for me. I discovered it when I had just turned 20. I knew absolutely nothing about craft beer, including the fact that it existed. The girl I was with asked for "something wheaty, like a Begian." That sentence in itself confused me, but when I had the witbier it was like a whole new world opened up in front of me.
Flash forward: 2007. The revisit. I tried three of the offerings, the Porter, IPA, and Witbier, and all were adequate if not slightly above average for the style. There is two levels, both spacious and relaxing. The girlfriend and I sat by a window, and did the crossword, read, and were served promptly when our beers emptied. There were about 6-8 beers on tap when we were there, all house offerings, two were seasonals. All we had for food was an order of yam fries, which is hard to screw up, and they didn't. All in all a great place to waste an afternoon with some good beer.
★ 935 characters
4.28/5 rDev +11.5%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4.5 | service: 4 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4
On a recent visit to Vancouver, this looked like a good stop. I will say that out of all the Brewpubs in Vancouver, this is the best overall in quality brews. On draught they had an excellent IPA, a Dry Stout, Espresso Stout, Lager, Framboisen and a Hefe. Not a bad selection at all. The food was good (get the pesto pizza) and service was very attentive even though the place was packed.
Nice atmosphere as it sits on the water. I highly recommend this place. We went back there in the same week 2 more times because we liked it so much.
Note: sit at the downstairs bar as this does not seem to get as crowded as the upstairs bar. Plus, they have pool tables there.
★ 669 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4.5 | service: 4 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4
On a recent visit to Vancouver, this looked like a good stop. I will say that out of all the Brewpubs in Vancouver, this is the best overall in quality brews. On draught they had an excellent IPA, a Dry Stout, Espresso Stout, Lager, Framboisen and a Hefe. Not a bad selection at all. The food was good (get the pesto pizza) and service was very attentive even though the place was packed.
Nice atmosphere as it sits on the water. I highly recommend this place. We went back there in the same week 2 more times because we liked it so much.
Note: sit at the downstairs bar as this does not seem to get as crowded as the upstairs bar. Plus, they have pool tables there.
★ 669 characters
4/5 rDev +4.2%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Ducked in out of the rain for lunch and a few beers and was pleasantly surprised. This was one of only a few bars or brewpubs in Vancouver that had decent reviews on BA, so I figured I'd give it a shot. Warm atmosphere, nice long bar downstairs. Good views of the harbor from both levels. Food was reasonably priced, but I didn't venture beyond standard pub grub. Beer selection was pretty standard; nothing crazy or unique. The IPA was great. Not sure I'll be back there anytime soon, but I highly recommend checking it out. You can get there easily on the elevated train.
★ 573 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Ducked in out of the rain for lunch and a few beers and was pleasantly surprised. This was one of only a few bars or brewpubs in Vancouver that had decent reviews on BA, so I figured I'd give it a shot. Warm atmosphere, nice long bar downstairs. Good views of the harbor from both levels. Food was reasonably priced, but I didn't venture beyond standard pub grub. Beer selection was pretty standard; nothing crazy or unique. The IPA was great. Not sure I'll be back there anytime soon, but I highly recommend checking it out. You can get there easily on the elevated train.
★ 573 characters
3.98/5 rDev +3.6%
vibe: 5 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
I have always really liked this place. And it's mainly because of the atmosphere.
It is situated right at the entrance of the gastown district. Nice big place, very nice and clean. Has a wonderful downstairs bar area with the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat at in a brewery. Also has plenty of tv's with hockey on, and pool tables too. Also, the view is excellent.
The beer is good, but not spectacular. However, the Great Pumpkin is the best Pumpkin beer I have ever had. There are usually 8 beers or so on draft when I have been there.
The food is also good... and was served quickly by very nice and helpful employees.
★ 641 characters
vibe: 5 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 3.5 | food: 4
I have always really liked this place. And it's mainly because of the atmosphere.
It is situated right at the entrance of the gastown district. Nice big place, very nice and clean. Has a wonderful downstairs bar area with the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat at in a brewery. Also has plenty of tv's with hockey on, and pool tables too. Also, the view is excellent.
The beer is good, but not spectacular. However, the Great Pumpkin is the best Pumpkin beer I have ever had. There are usually 8 beers or so on draft when I have been there.
The food is also good... and was served quickly by very nice and helpful employees.
★ 641 characters
3.93/5 rDev +2.3%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 3.5 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Had a chance to stop by during a trip to Vancouver. Being as it was a beautiful day I opted to sit outside. I did check out the place on a jaunt to the washroom and it did not disappoint. Classy woods and finishes with the brewing equipment stationed in the basement. Service was average for the time of day. I had their pale and cream ale, both of which were average I'd say. Sufficient array of beer choices. The only item I had from the food menu was the salmon quesadillas which were delicious. Overall worth the visit.
★ 523 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 3.5 | selection: 4 | food: 4
Had a chance to stop by during a trip to Vancouver. Being as it was a beautiful day I opted to sit outside. I did check out the place on a jaunt to the washroom and it did not disappoint. Classy woods and finishes with the brewing equipment stationed in the basement. Service was average for the time of day. I had their pale and cream ale, both of which were average I'd say. Sufficient array of beer choices. The only item I had from the food menu was the salmon quesadillas which were delicious. Overall worth the visit.
★ 523 characters
3.4/5 rDev -11.5%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 3
We had one night in Vancouver before our Alaskan Cruise. I basically got one shot at a local brew pub. The wife and kids were hungry and tired after flying across the continent and tramping around downtown Vancouver. I had selected this place based on the reviews by my fellow BA. It was a bright airy place upstairs and snug and cozy downstairs. Brews were okay and the food was average at best. Service was relatively slow given the lack of customers downstairs where we were seated but not so bad that a comment is warranted.
My kids didn't relish their meals but they ate them. My wife did not really like her entree and mine was so-so a tad overcooked and under seasoned but tastes vary sooo.... My son's Nachos were killer and outstanding...who knew? Would I visit again? Yes , but only to sit outside for a glass and an appetizer or two....and another one of their outstanding T-shirts of course.
★ 907 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 3 | service: 3.5 | selection: 3.5 | food: 3
We had one night in Vancouver before our Alaskan Cruise. I basically got one shot at a local brew pub. The wife and kids were hungry and tired after flying across the continent and tramping around downtown Vancouver. I had selected this place based on the reviews by my fellow BA. It was a bright airy place upstairs and snug and cozy downstairs. Brews were okay and the food was average at best. Service was relatively slow given the lack of customers downstairs where we were seated but not so bad that a comment is warranted.
My kids didn't relish their meals but they ate them. My wife did not really like her entree and mine was so-so a tad overcooked and under seasoned but tastes vary sooo.... My son's Nachos were killer and outstanding...who knew? Would I visit again? Yes , but only to sit outside for a glass and an appetizer or two....and another one of their outstanding T-shirts of course.
★ 907 characters
4.18/5 rDev +8.9%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4
Visiting Gastown in tourist mode, the first thing I spot after getting out of the SkyTrain station is this place. It looks pretty busy for post-lunch hours, so I gave it a try. I asked the maitre d' if I could be seated near the brewing equipment (testing if they were a real brewery) and she brought me downstairs next to them. While the main floor had a contemporary feel, the lower level evoked historic times with wooden beams and brick. There was a nice warmth and good vibes, and a mainstream crowd.
Ordered salmon quesadillas (you have no idea how nice it is to have wild Pacific salmon compared to farmed Atlantic) and they were good. Satisfied, given the wide array of selections in the menu which ran the gamut of pub fare to slightly more refined entrees. Adventurous in a safe and controlled way, I'd say.
I had two of their brews, which were true to the style, and for the most part, quality par for the course. Seeing the other reviews here, I feel like I missed a more adventurous seasonal.
Service was standard and I enjoyed the experience. I visited the adjacent shop afterward, and the woman manning the counter knew the selection well enough to help me pick out some local 650 mLs to bring back home.
Pretty much the highlight of my visits to Gastown (geez, this place gets dodgy at night after all the tourists leave!) and worth a visit as a tourist.
★ 1,384 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4 | service: 4 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4
Visiting Gastown in tourist mode, the first thing I spot after getting out of the SkyTrain station is this place. It looks pretty busy for post-lunch hours, so I gave it a try. I asked the maitre d' if I could be seated near the brewing equipment (testing if they were a real brewery) and she brought me downstairs next to them. While the main floor had a contemporary feel, the lower level evoked historic times with wooden beams and brick. There was a nice warmth and good vibes, and a mainstream crowd.
Ordered salmon quesadillas (you have no idea how nice it is to have wild Pacific salmon compared to farmed Atlantic) and they were good. Satisfied, given the wide array of selections in the menu which ran the gamut of pub fare to slightly more refined entrees. Adventurous in a safe and controlled way, I'd say.
I had two of their brews, which were true to the style, and for the most part, quality par for the course. Seeing the other reviews here, I feel like I missed a more adventurous seasonal.
Service was standard and I enjoyed the experience. I visited the adjacent shop afterward, and the woman manning the counter knew the selection well enough to help me pick out some local 650 mLs to bring back home.
Pretty much the highlight of my visits to Gastown (geez, this place gets dodgy at night after all the tourists leave!) and worth a visit as a tourist.
★ 1,384 characters
4.2/5 rDev +9.4%
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4
This is the best brewpub in Vancouver and most certainly rivals those of Victoria (namely, Canoe, Swans, and Spinnakers) for top spot. The food is good, the atmosphere is well done in the west coast gastown/yaletown style, brick and massive cedar beams.
Conrad and Mike are a dynamic duo that have but together one of the most interesting and current portfolios in BC. There North-by-Northwest Pale Ale provides a smack of northwest hops like none other in Vancouver. They aren't afraid to experiment and they do it really well, see Watermelon Saison or Roggen Weisen.
★ 571 characters
vibe: 4.5 | quality: 4.5 | service: 3.5 | selection: 4.5 | food: 4
This is the best brewpub in Vancouver and most certainly rivals those of Victoria (namely, Canoe, Swans, and Spinnakers) for top spot. The food is good, the atmosphere is well done in the west coast gastown/yaletown style, brick and massive cedar beams.
Conrad and Mike are a dynamic duo that have but together one of the most interesting and current portfolios in BC. There North-by-Northwest Pale Ale provides a smack of northwest hops like none other in Vancouver. They aren't afraid to experiment and they do it really well, see Watermelon Saison or Roggen Weisen.
★ 571 characters
4.28/5 rDev +11.5%
vibe: 4 | quality: 4.5 | service: 4.5 | selection: 4 | food: 4
This is a nice place in the "Gaslight/lamp" district of downtown Vancouver, BC. The atmosphere is crazy as this place has many rooms, a cafe, a private function hall, a pub, a restaurant, a brewery, and more! The pub atmosphere is nice with a dark wooden bar and many tables. They also have outside seating for when the weather is nice, or when you want to have some smoke with your drinks. The quality of my portabello burger was very good and the beers I samples (IPA, pale ale, west coast pale ale, and wit) were all very well done, and relatively cheap. Service was also very fast, friendly, and humerous and I was definately graced with a talkative and fun bartender. Like almost all of my other beer experiences on this trip I also got into another very interesting conversation. This one was with a nice lady from England. We discussed CAMRA and the cask ale scene in the UK as compared to the US. The selection was good with 6 year round draughts and 2 seasonals as well. Highly recommended when in Vancouver!
★ 1,017 characters
vibe: 4 | quality: 4.5 | service: 4.5 | selection: 4 | food: 4
This is a nice place in the "Gaslight/lamp" district of downtown Vancouver, BC. The atmosphere is crazy as this place has many rooms, a cafe, a private function hall, a pub, a restaurant, a brewery, and more! The pub atmosphere is nice with a dark wooden bar and many tables. They also have outside seating for when the weather is nice, or when you want to have some smoke with your drinks. The quality of my portabello burger was very good and the beers I samples (IPA, pale ale, west coast pale ale, and wit) were all very well done, and relatively cheap. Service was also very fast, friendly, and humerous and I was definately graced with a talkative and fun bartender. Like almost all of my other beer experiences on this trip I also got into another very interesting conversation. This one was with a nice lady from England. We discussed CAMRA and the cask ale scene in the UK as compared to the US. The selection was good with 6 year round draughts and 2 seasonals as well. Highly recommended when in Vancouver!
★ 1,017 characters
Steamworks Brewing Company in Vancouver, BC, Canada
3.68
out of 5
based on 684 ratings.
vibe: 4 | quality: 4 | service: 3.75 | selection: 3.75
Huge place with an upstairs and downstairs. Had their Jasmine IPA which was well above average. There are pool tables downstairs. Didn't have any food, but it's a great place to go with a group of friends.
★ 205 characters