Coppertank Grill

3.5 star rating
23 reviews Rating Details

Categories: Sports Bars, Music Venues  [Edit]

3135 W Broadway
Vancouver, BC V6K 2H2
Neighbourhood: Kitsilano
(604) 731-6565
Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Good for Groups:
Yes
Good for Kids:
No
Outdoor Seating:
Yes
Music:
Live
Best Nights:
Fri, Thu, Sat
Happy Hour:
No
Alcohol:
Full Bar
Smoking:
Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
Coat Check:
No
Noise Level:
Average
Good For Dancing:
No
Ambience:
Casual
Has TV:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Review Highlights   

user photo
"The star of the show was definitely the nachos." (in 8 reviews)
user photo
"As Kits watering holes go, this one leads the pack." (in 5 reviews)
user photo
"The yummy poutine or sandwiches are always my favourite to..." (in 3 reviews)
  Loading...
Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites' | Facebook Friends'

23 reviews in English

  • Review from Reena M.

    Greater Vancouver A, BC

    4.0 star rating
    7/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here

    I've been coming here for 9 years now since back in my undergrad days!! Such good memories with friends!

    They have good beer, and sports on their tvs. I came here to pre-drink for the Canada Gold Medal hockey game during the Olympics! And also for a late night dinner/large snack after a long day of work with a friends.  We ended up ordering their gigantic nachos with everything on it, including chicken and guac! All for $23. That was really pricey, but also tasty.  The sides also come in a really small container too, unfortunately.

    But, I would still come back.

  • Review from David W.

    Vancouver, BC

    2.0 star rating
    1/2/2011 1 Check-in Here

    The Coppertank Bar and Grill has undergone quite a few changes. I mean like you were a man and now you're a woman type of changes. Here's my two part review:

    The Old Dive Bar:

    This place was the quintessential student bar for grabbing a few pitchers after classes on Thursday night. While not in UBC, it was closer to home and the Pit wasn't exactly the place to be useless you wanted to experience Mardi Gras.

    The prices were reasonable, hence us being there, and you could order the usual, fairly-lousy, appetizers. The Nachos were usually cold and only the exposed outmost layer would have any toppings leaving a mountain of stale chips underneath. Nothing starving and malnourished students wouldn't finish.

    Notably the chicken poppers (honey garlic and cajun) were awesome. I rarely recall a Thursday where I didn't order them and the same goes for our usual group. The mini burgers, poutine, and cheese jalapenos  were decent. The pizza isn't great and you could find marginally better just across the street.

    The box seating right and left of the stage were our favourite tables and depending on the night you'd endure some sad off-key musician trying to make a go at it. Unfortunately this place never really advertised itself as a music venue nor did anyone consider it one. Also more often than not you'd have a pillar blocking your line of sight.

    You could watch the hockey game on very awkwardly positioned screens and the tables were ALWAYS sticky. The all wood interior and fake posters of famous bands like "AC/DC plays the Coppertank" were its hallmark. You could never get service and you learned quickly to get your table's order together for the few times the server would come along. By the end as regulars you'd basically be able to walk to the kitchen door and give Tina your order.

    The You Were Once Mr. and Now Are A Mrs. Bar:

    I don't even recognize this place anymore. I thought the place was under new ownership until I saw Tina behind the bar. To be crude, it looks like The Cactus Club and the old Coppertank had a one night stand, went to rehab, and had a baby -- which is the new Coppertank Grill. Twins I should say since they expanded to a second Main street location which is actually worse.

    They've kept with some of the familiar traditions such as a mostly wood interior though highly varnished and burned look. They've fixed the awkward seating that was originally in no way space effective. They have sleek flat screen TV's everywhere. The Canucks scored and I thought a nuclear missile was being launched. Red lights start flashing and air raid horns went off. I'm glad no baby boomers were there to duck and cover. If you're looking for the sell out look with no charm or soul then I suggest making a stop at this place.

    They've added some new things to the menu but kept all the usual top sellers. I wouldn't say the quality has improved any and some of the new dishes were rather awful. The service is just as bad as ever and they've hired some more upscale looking servers though lacking in personality.

    In the end this is no longer the place we all came to love in our school days and with this new face lift I can't say I've warmed to the place any.

  • Review from Mike P.

    Vancouver, BC

    3.0 star rating
    5/28/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Good place to drink beer if you're in the neighbourhood.  The night we were there they had live enteratainment, which is always a nice bonus (if you like the band).

    It's been so long since i had been to this location i didn't even remember what it previously looked like, but it's renovated pretty nicely.

    The service was FAR better than the newer one on Main street.

  • Review from Stephanie M.

    Vancouver, BC

    4.0 star rating
    3/19/2011 1 Check-in Here

    A visit to this place was a huge blast from the past as I hadn't been here since my undergrad days, (gulp) several years ago now. Ironically we were carded by the server, so I guess we didn't look too old, right??

    Anyway it still has the laid back and funky vibe I remember, although it was incredibly quiet when we first arrived. Don't undergrads party on Tuesday nights anymore? Or every night, for that matter? What has today's youth come to?

    The star of the show was definitely the nachos. We ordered the "regular" size, loaded with guac, extra cheese, chicken and jalapeno peppers, and it was absolutely massive. They definitely didn't skimp on any of the toppings, and I'm sure that would have been the case even if we hadn't added the extras. I was impressed - not to mention ridiculously full after attempting to put a dent in those nachos. I found it a bit odd that they charged extra for jalapenos as I thought that was something that normally comes with nachos, but the plate wasn't overly expensive to begin with, so no matter. Also our server was nice enough to bring us more guac (and quite a big bowl, too) after we finished the first (smaller) one. Aside from being helpful in the extra guac department, she was very friendly and had a good sense of humour.

    My last comment is that I was excited to see Rock Creek Cider on tap here. Definitely worth a trip back for great nachos and a fun, casual atmosphere.

  • Review from Adelina W.

    •  
    • 17 friends
    • 149 reviews

    Richmond, BC

    4.0 star rating
    5/12/2010

    They have HUGE nachos!  We ordered the small to share among 7-8 of us and we were stuffed.  The plate was spilling over the edges and the pile was as least 6 inches high.  I shudder to think of what the large would look like.  We also ordered the garlic fries and when they say garlic, they mean garlic.  You could smell it from a mile away.  They were crispy and despite the overwhelming smell, didn't have strong garlic taste.

    The atmosphere here is good.  Not too crazy loud, but still busy.  Service wasn't the best - it took forever to get the attention of anyone that worked there and drinks took a really long time to arrive.  Prices are normal and its in a good area.  The night we were there, there was a live band playing.  They weren't the best, but they played a bunch of well known covers.

  • Review from Kayla M.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 39 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    3.0 star rating
    6/6/2011

    You know what, having never experienced the "old" coppertank, I'm going to chime in on the new setup:  I like it!  It feels weird and funky, like a dive bar should, but I'm also not scared to eat the nachos. I went on a UFC night and sat in one of the big booths.  Have to say, I was not down with the general scene.  But still, service was pretty fast for how busy they were.  I've only been on slow nights other than this, and I've always had good service.  The only other objective observation I can make is that the first time I went in, double well vodkas were like $6 on special (I think it was Sunday). You can't be mad at that!

  • Review from Tim L.

    Astoria, NY

    USA
    5.0 star rating
    8/25/2008

    The Coppertank is a great place to come catch a sports game and get a good drink accompanied with decent food.  The yummy poutine or sandwiches are always my favourite to pair with some good brew.

    Service has always been amazing with the friendly staff being more attentive than at any other neighbourhood bar I've been to.

    Unfortunately the word on this gem has got out and it occasionally fills up with some pretentious patrons who kind of foul up the atmosphere, but in general it's like a modern day Cheers or at least what it should be.

  • Review from Melissa F.

    Toronto, ON

    2.0 star rating
    Updated - 1/24/2010

    DAMN, I hate the CHANGES!

    This went from "yay- i'm a regular" straight down to two stars.

    This used to be the classic dive bars with the slightly sticky tables but awesome beer and awesome service.
    Then they had their first reno and cleaned up a bit- which made it still kickass (even though they took away the large bench seating and put in booths.

    the NEW setup is just TERRIBLE.  I walked in here on the weekend and FROZE upon seeing the new island bar in the middle and all the seating looked cramped and anti-social.  This is no longer a hang-out place.  They turned it to just any other sports bar that has enclosed tables.

    There is NO flow of people and what was once a great place to run into randoms is now just any other pub.

    The Coppertank has lost its lacklustre-charm and is now just "meh.  I've experienced better"

    Listed in: Well…">Double Takes: not all…

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      8/28/2009

      I love the coppertank.
      why?
      it's easy.

      you go in with jeans, t-shirt, sit at the bar and order a nice… Read more »

  • Review from Dee C.

    •  
    • 2 friends
    • 19 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    5.0 star rating
    9/10/2009

    This is a very casual beer drinking bar, the prices are decent.

    My favourite drink would be their ceasars! It's to die for, so delicious..not too spicy, not too sour, just about right.

    I've been to both Coppertanks, one on Broadway which had wooden tables and looked more like any sports bar. Main and 22nd, a more modern atmosphere with 1 and a half level (upstairs).
    I believe there are more TVs up on Main so if you ever want to catch a game, go down to the Coppertank on Main st!

  • Review from Matthew L.

    Edmonton, AB

    3.0 star rating
    5/15/2009

    This is a decent place to get a bunch of people together for the purpose of drinking.  The only problem is that they make you buy food as well, but I think that has more to do with the BC government.  

    They have a fine selection of Canadian brews on tap and they make their thin crust pizza with fresh, high-quality (and often gourmet) ingredients.

    It's just difficult to order a beer on a popular night.  This place is also a bit loud for my tastes.

  • Review from Sarah M.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 37 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    4.0 star rating
    6/8/2011

    good place!

    Very big so it always looks empty ha!

    GREAT NACHOS! MUST TRY ;)

    Friendly staff.

    go and have a beer with nachos, yum!

  • Review from Sheila W.

    •  
    • 36 friends
    • 346 reviews

    BC

    3.0 star rating
    11/24/2008

    The Coppertank is close enough to UBC to attract a young, student crowd. You know if there's students in the place, the prices will be reasonable. It's also still firmly within the Kits boundaries, so working people won't feel like chaperones when they stop in to tip a pint and watch the game.

    A strange thing I've always found is the configuration of the booths and tables. There are a lot of posts and other features that leave a lot of seats with a poor view of the TV or stage. There's often live music here, but sometimes the band has made me wish there wasn't. If you want to join the ranks of mediocre musicians, they have open mic Sundays after 7:30pm.

    Coppertank has a pretty run-of-the-mill bar menu, including sandwiches, burgers, pasta and pizza. Service isn't always lickety-split, but the place has always been packed when I've been there, so I find it hard to blame the servers.

  • Review from Cameron M.

    •  
    • 18 friends
    • 378 reviews

    Toronto, ON

    3.0 star rating
    11/6/2008 1 photo

    I've never bothered with the food at the Coppertank but I've definitely found it's a good place to have a drink. Notably we've gone to watch some UFC and a couple of games there and it's one of the only pub/bars on the strip that can really handle a large crowd of people.
    Their food didn't seem to be too exciting or original though it smelled good enough. Overall it kind of has the same-old-same-old feel for a pub/bar full of rowdy college kids. It's clear competition down the strip is the Wolf and Hound which does more interesting inside with the decor and definitely with the food but, in a pinch I'd recommend The Coppertank to anyone, especially if they are in a bigger group.

  • Review from David F.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 55 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    2.0 star rating
    10/9/2009

    I've read that the service is bad, but needed to see for myself.  Just went there and it was almost empty.  Waitress was hard to find, not that friendly and more concerned with filling salt shakers and hanging around the bar chatting than attending to us.  We waved to get attention, but had to go over to her to ask for some more drinks.  It just felt like she couldn't be bothered.  

    Food was okay, but there's better in Kits for sure.  Like next door at Elwoods or at Migz.  Much better food at these two and nicer service.

    On the positive side, nice big room and loads of TV's.

  • Review from Chris N.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 11 reviews

    Victoria, BC

    3.0 star rating
    1/23/2009

    The Coppertank,

    Looking for the student bar vibe again.  You have come to the right place.  Find the next great college band playing or just drink till your mid-term goes away.  This place knows it's niche.  

    The place can be packed and be prepared to have beer spilt on your shoes at the very least.

  • Review from Janet F.

    •  
    • 16 friends
    • 33 reviews

    London, ON

    2.0 star rating
    6/14/2010

    Some friends and I headed over here for a quiet Wednesday after work drink and I was truly disappointed with the service. I can usually tolerate slow service, but this was SLOW.

    No one noticed we had arrived until 10 minutes after we seated ourselves. We had to make smoke signals to flag down the waitress, and when she did come, she bascially gave us the death stare. Would it have killed her to be friendly or crack a smile?

    What saved the night was a delicious order of poutine! The fries were hot and crisp, the gravy was just the right meatiness and thickness. Even my friend from Montreal approves, and they know their poutine. :)

  • Review from Louis B.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 12 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    4.0 star rating
    9/20/2009

    Probably the best pizza I ever had.  I had the portabello mushroom pizza (with parmesan, feta, caramelized onions, and portabello mushrooms) on a thin crust.  Although all their pizzas are great.  

    The service was good, the atmosphere was great considering it's in Kits and even though it's really close to UBC, there were a lot of good people in house.  My friends had a small issue with the pizza being a bit salty, and they took it off the bill!  They really care about customer satisfaction and a place like that deserves some props.  

    I would recommend the place to anyone who likes a lively place on a weekend.  Good for a friend get-together if you're looking for something like a pub but with some more energy.

  • Review from Emily C.

    Toronto, ON

    4.0 star rating
    10/25/2009

    Awesome neighbourhood bar. Love the area, would definitely live in Kits if the opportunity ever arises ...

    Think I came here with a girl friend back in the day? Note to self, NOT a good date place or a venue for intimate conversation. It's super loud, hella noise, but apparently has great live acts? Good drinks/menu from what i recall. Just don't come here wanting to bond and talk lots. Overall great vibe and drinking place.

  • Review from Chloë E.

    •  
    • 28 friends
    • 474 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    3.0 star rating
    11/14/2008 1 photo

    The moment I thought of the Coppertank I could just hear this rowdy jock voice in my head go "w00t". Most nights when I pass this bar there are crowds of smokers in front of the doors and the music blares out as more come out to join them.

    I've spent at least half a dozen rather unmemorable evenings at the Tank. My favorite part is their posters that are doctored to read that The Beatles and Elvis played at the Coppertank. It's just so ludicrous it's laughable.

    The large booths and tables, however, are good for a group. Musical acts are hit or miss. If there's nowhere else to go, stop on by. But there are other places, so yeah.

  • Review from Darien C.

    •  
    • 15 friends
    • 176 reviews

    BC

    3.0 star rating
    12/11/2008

    Thirsty in Kits?  Coppertank is the cure for what ails you.  

    A favourite spot for kits locals and UBC kids alike, the Tank is always a bustling spot.  I've never been one to relish a night on Broadway, but cannot deny the good times had here.  

    On a weekend night the bar is packed, the music is loud and the crowd agreeable.  Like all Broadway spots the downtown insanity is not present.  As Kits watering holes go, this one leads the pack.

  • Review from Vanessa D.

    •  
    • 57 friends
    • 58 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    3.0 star rating
    6/6/2010

    another solid pub. decent beer promos, large plates of super garlicky fries, uncomfortable bar stools, a good mixed crowd. the musician they had playing was a bit weird, albeit very enthusiastic. they are very accommodating with large groups.

    the servers we less than attentive. i showed up a little bit after my group and even tho the waitress greeted me when i came in the door, i waited a good twenty minutes and then had to flag her down to place my order. getting any sort of refills was similar.

    about the food: the 'chicken poppers' were some of the most boring bits of fried chicken in tasteless sauce i have ever had. the garlic fries were awesome, but i wish they had come with something to dip in (no ketchup or anything). also they claim that the garlic fries are just like the ones you get at safeco field in seattle, and while they were super garlicky and very good, they weren't even close to the perfection that is kidd valley fries (what is for sale at safeco).

  • Review from James W.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 24 reviews

    Vancouver, BC

    3.0 star rating
    12/9/2010 4 Check-ins Here

    Average pub, decent beer selection, fairly good food. I'm a fan of the yam fries in particular. The terrace is good weather permitting. Otherwise unremarkable.

  • Review from Rachael T.

    Toronto, ON

    3.0 star rating
    6/21/2009

    What a surprise to walk into Coppertank on Broadway and see it completely different than the one newly opened on Main - the atmosphere seems to cater to a younger crowd with dim lighting (not a big fan of that) and wooden booths, high top tables, bar stools and a small outdoor patio. there were two Tv's broadcasting some winter bathing suit contest.. I don't know how many people were paying attention to it. For a Thursday night, there seems to be a good turnout but the space is pretty big so I am not surprised it wasn't completely full.
    Starving after Volleyball @ Jericho beach and celebrating milestones and birthdays, we ordered pitchers of Lager and ordered nachoes and wings. The nachoes, IMO, were overpriced... the half portion at Steamworks were almost as big as the large ones here. We ordered a second guacomole for the nachos, but it came super late so the waitress was nice enough to not include it on our bill. The hot wings were awesome, and same with the honey garlic ones... I would call it your typical grub and pub spot.

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...

People Viewed This After Searching For...