The Diamond

"Vancouver's Gem of a Bar A clandestine spot to imbibe in Gastown, the Diamond is the speakeasy when you're in Vancouver . Bar none, one of the best bars I have been to on recommendation from Nathan at Judas Goat. They will make you anything here, like a tasty pisco sour. Plus, they give you these really cute glasses with flowers on them. We didn’t try the menu, but if it’s anything like the drinks, I’ll be returning for a meal."

"Since it opened in 2009, The Diamond has been one of Gastown’s go-to cocktail lounges. The second-floor bar and restaurant is small, dark, and full of character. Most drinks are in-house creations, although in keeping with the turn-of-last-century vibe, a few cocktails are ripped directly from the history books; take the Chrysanthemum and the Royal Smile, circa 1916 and 1948, respectively. The list is divided into categories: “Boozy,” “Delicate,” “Refreshing,” and “Overlooked.”" - Guy Saddy

"GO HERE: for a comprehensive cocktail list in The Diamond’s dapper second-story brick space. Lit by a chandelier and surrounded by trees, the atmosphere makes it feel like you’re drinking inside the world’s most elegant treehouse. ORDER THE: whatever appeals to you from the cocktail list that’s broken down by sections: Boozy, Delicate, Refreshing, and Overlooked, with the date and place of origin provided for every drink. As for the food, the menu is designed for sharing, so get a couple of the Serrano ham, truffled crispy fingerling potatoes with fresh ricotta, and the marinated artichoke and salsa verde. THE VIBE IS: late-night cool with artfully composed cocktails and stylish people to match. Later into the night, head over to the Elk Room (a curious little bar within this bar) for post-cocktail cocktails. PRACTICAL STUFF: Open every day: Monday to Thursday, from 5:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.; Friday to Saturday, from 5:30 p.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sunday, from 5:30 p.m. to midnight. Reservations available. —Lindsay Anderson" - Condé Nast