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Keefer Bar
- Hours:
Mon 5 pm - 12 am
Tue-Thu, Sun 5 pm - 1 am
Fri-Sat 5 pm - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
61 reviews for Keefer Bar
Review Highlights
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"Regardless, my Opium Sour was the perfect drink for this..." In 7 reviews -
"...unwittingly stumbled into Sweet Soul Burlesque night, which..." In 3 reviews -
"Had the milk and honey which was a lovely smooth drink..." In 5 reviews
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61 reviews in English
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Review from Ben B.
5/5/2012
Despite too frequently calling this place 'The Reefer,' as in, 'we hit the reefer last night,' causing much confusion, I really did love my first and only visit to the Keefer Bar in Vancouver's Chinatown.
It was well worth the hike down from Gastown and was the perfect second venue after a classy prohibition cocktail at the Pourhouse. Sliding into a dimly lit lounge felt completely natural as the clock struck midnight even though the entire place is about eight feet wide. We lucked out, nabbing one of the few tables really quickly, leaving us to enjoy the unique ambiance of back-lit x-rays on the walls and the strange modern apothecary touches throughout.
But honestly? My descriptions of the place will never do it justice. Just go and check it out for yourself.
Once you hit the drink menu, be prepared to be amazed. Every cocktail is a unique creation. Even the classics are elevated with a new-age twist. You'll want to scour every page to weigh your options, but let's face it, you won't have the time. Go with your gut and you won't be disappointed. My bourbon-based something or other complete with vanilla soy extract and a citrus bite was just beyond. Better yet since it arrived without delay or too hard a hit on the credit card.
Rally fireside on the front patio before figuring out your next steps. My only regret is that our departure came all too quickly.Listed in: Vancouver, BC
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Review from Elton R.
4/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
I'm not very big on cocktails but I've heard a lot about the place, so finally headed over to check out what the fuss was all about.
I was fully embraced for maximum doucheness both from the patrons and the employees (I like to set my expectations low apparently) but I was pleasantly surprised. The crowd was pretty good and the bartenders were all very friendly and knowledgeable. A friend of mine who went up to order commented that they were tasting the cocktails before serving to make sure that their concoctions were up to snuff. Drinks were generally well-mixed and delicious - I had the Opium Sour and something else I don't remember. There was one drink a friend of mine ordered which tasted like ass. Wish I took note of what it was so I would never order that again...
Also, the hostess was really nice and awesome - the place was pretty much capacity but made a makeshift standing table near the entrance for us. And yes my drunk friend started hitting on her. I apologize on his behalf to whoever you are. -
Review from Luisa D.
3/14/2012 1 Check-in Here
Go here on Thursdays for Sweet Soul Burlesque's performances!
A bunch of us went after VPIWF and we took some of our winery principals with us. For some reason our group of girls who arrived first were charged $10 cover but the guys were only charged $5 each. This tells me YOU SHOULD NEGOTIATE COVER if you're in a big group.
At first it was jam-packed in this narrow long bar. In fact, I tried to go with a group once before but it was too crowded. We were determined to stay this time so we found a table near the front to pile up our coats and bags and then we danced. The DJ was spinning some good vibes through the space.
Most of us shared bottles of Prosecco so I didn't have a chance to try a cocktail but I've heard the bartenders know what they're doing. As luck would have it a table right in front of the stage opened up just before the show went on. We got our visitors to Vancouver seated with prime viewing. Little Miss Risk freaked our conservative crew out a little bit (which was awesome) when she spewed foamy nastiness out of her mouth. Miss Rita Starr was adorable and got them back into their comfort zone and at one point Cara Milk's feather fans were flicking the cheeks of our grinning Argentinian. Crystal Precious came and chatted up our Californian - it was hilarious when she noticed his wedding ring "Where's your wife?" she asked. Ah Crystal, us women (married or not) love you! Our Chilean who'd never been to Vancouver says he's definitely coming back!
I will be back too and will try a cocktail next time. Sweet Sip Thursdays - thanks for keeping Vancouver hot and vibrant. xoxo -
Review from Amy T.
3/3/2012
Where am I and have I been transported into another version of Vancouver's Chinatown?
From the moment we found this place to when we walked inside, I was wowed. I love themes and this one had a modern, Asian, opium den feel to it. There are artsy looking picture of body parts and muscles on the wall. Above that, you'll see antique glasses and bottles lined up neatly. This is definitely a place you go for atmosphere and have some after dinner drinks/conversation.
I had 2 drinks and while one was average, the other was not my taste at all. It was a long night and I kept thinking to myself, I'm going to remember the names so I can Yelp about it, well that was a failure. I just recall one of them being so overpowered with ginger and I almost didn't finish it.
Besides not being a huge fan of the drinks, I still love this place. A perfect little hangout for a date or with a small group. Where else can you have a drink and study anatomy? -
Review from Gary M.
3/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
Next stop funky drinks and anatomy lessons on the walls and ceiling...
Tonight we had three great servers.,2 sets of fantastic drinks and a fun lively venue.
Honey and Milk, classic drink. now my eyes are staring to zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz -
Review from Steven S.
3/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
Great cocktails, actually amazing cocktails. I discovered them at the yelp party here and had to return for the rosemary gimlet. But that is where it ends sadly. The place is pretentious as hell. It has the makings of a wonderful watering hole, yet the pretentious staff ruin it. No staff you are not superior to me because you wear a waistcoat and ironic stach. Also the place is so dark you can barely read the menu without night vision goggles or the eyes of a fruit bat. The food is pretty damn good but not enough to make me crave the place. Please Vancouver, follow the role model of the Pour House. Friendly, trendy and laid back. They are about you having a great time, not you being honoured to be in the presence of their mixologists.
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Review from Rhett W.
Vancouver, BC
2/22/2012
Very interesting cocktails with creative ingredients. Definitely worth a stop for drinks.
Burlesque on Thursdays too!
See my review on my blog (view my profile). -
Review from Robin M.
11/3/2011 5 Check-ins Here
What's not to love? Resting unassumingly at the edge of Chinatown is one of my absolute favourite bars in Vancouver. Deep dark wood lining each of the walls; brilliant lighting designed by the masterminds at Urban Visuals; a moody yet entirely easy atmosphere created with (Free) love; tinctures and herbs infused into some of the best cocktails to be found in Vancouver -- really, I ask, what is not to love about Keefer?
A dim room with even dimmer corners; perfect conversationalists who also happen to be the witty staff; a burlesque night featuring some of Vancouver's finest. Debauchery at its best.
I lubs this place. Long time.
also: cute boys! (most of the time) -
Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
12/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I really love Keefer Bar. I'm a huge fan of their drinks, the atmosphere, the staff, the burlesque, the location. Really I love it all.
When you enter the Keefer you look down a narrow hall past the bar. There are seats at the bar and in the area in the very front. As you walk down the brick wall the back opens up to reveal some more tables and chairs.
The whole place is dark, dark wood furniture, exposed brick walls, low light. I love it. Absolutely love it.
If you're there for the boobies get there early and camp out at the front or you wont see anything. Just FYI.
A friend and I stopped in here after visiting the haunted Sun Yat Sen Gardens. We we're early for burlesque so we made our way though the cocktail list. While I agree the drinks are pricy, I would even go so far as to say they are over-priced, but they are still good. They are quality and strong so no real complaints.
I also really enjoy the food. We ordered skewers and spring rolls and they were really yummy.Listed in: Hot Eats
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Review from Larry L.
12/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
At the time of this writing there is already 50 reviews and the majority of them all very very good. The place is long and narrow, so at the waistline of this bar, it can get crowded and personal. Hopefully you meet someone you like there. :)
Bar is excellent and drinks are phenomenal.
If you read some more of these reviews, you will notice a couple common things written about this place.
Ambiance, cozy, dark, great drinks.
This is one of the places that is making Chinatown hip again. It''s getting a small night scene that is more diversive than ever.
The start of more good things to come.Listed in: Mojofoodies -Chinatown
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Review from Monique B.
Port Moody, BC
12/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
This bar is at the bottom of a beautiful building in Chinatown, right below (what I hear) is an amazing set of residences with a crazy rooftop pool. The building itself is old and lovely and the bar has a wonderful collection of antique medical equipment in keeping with their apothecary theme.
I was here for an Elite event back at the end of November and I really enjoyed the wonderful cocktails they poured - try the rosemary gimlet, you won't regret it - but I have to say that the nibbles did not measure up. The cocktails were so delicious that I had high hopes for the platters of appies that were making their way around the room. Unfortunately, the dim sum and spring rolls were just meh and the meat skewers weren't much more exciting. Our table did LOVE the marinated tofu and the peking duck sliders were pretty tasty as well, but overall the food just didn't measuer up to the expectations I had after tasting that first delicious libation.
The drinks are strong, the atmosphere cozy, but I need more from the nibbles to push this joint up to a 4+ star rating. -
Review from Mandy R.
12/15/2011
I went here recently with a couple girlfriends for a cocktail. The cocktails were superb, the bathroom is... well, the first two adjectives to come to mind were "elegant" and 'sexy", but I feel weird calling a bathroom those things, so it was just real nice.
The service was okay, we were kind of placed in an awkward "in the way" location so we had a lot of people passing by, but never passing by when we needed a refill. And what's with the girls all dressing like Hot Topic Lolitas circa 2004? One server in a tight poofy dress, okay, but four? Is this mandatory? Weird. Up your dress code. -
Review from Bobbin W.
9/16/2011 1 photo
At the edge of Vancouver's Chinatown sits the historic Keefer Hotel, historic in my life at least. It is at this hotel bar that I enjoyed the most delicious cocktail of my life. With a twist on the classic gimlet, the Rosemary Gimlet (deserving of the all capitals of a proper noun) wowed my palate with rosemary-infused simple syrup. While I tilted the tumbler toward my face, I inhaled the fresh rosemary sprig, teleporting into Stanley Park while simultaneously conversing with bartender Vince and Keefer creative director Free. With every sip I meaningfully inhaled, scaling a British Columbia mountain.
I loved the cocktail so much, my boyfriend kindly returned to the Keefer with me the next night. I raved so relentlessly that the bartender Danny shared the recipe with me - although I clearly need to practice.
The Keefer's ambiance is amazing, too. While the light is dim á la nightclub, the music isn't so loud as to distract from conversation. Plus, light-up pictures of Asian anatomy bespackle the room, a rolling IV sitting in one corner near the restrooms.
No wonder Steve Martin stayed here. -
Review from Jordan S.
Vancouver, BC
11/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Keefer is emblematic of that rare combination of elements that creates a bar that is sensuous and simultaneously comforting. Free Lee, who I saw speak at Pecha Kucha, has developed a truly satisfying ambiance to pair with the Keefer's intriguing menu of drinks.
The ambiance, the staff, the clientele, the lighting...everything about the Keefer oozes across the palate in a sultry fashion. It's no wonder then that it plays host to one of, in my opinion any way, the most intimate burlesque experiences available in Vancouver.
Every Thursday night the Keefer is packed from wall-to-wall with an eclectic variety of people, all there to watch Sweet Soul Burlesque's 'Sweet Sip Thursdays'. The stage is so close that you can feel the heat radiating off the performers.
What really brings it home for me though is the quality of the service. On busy nights the smallish bar can be overloaded but, and I have to make special note here of Bar Manager Danielle Tatarin, the staff are always professional, helpful and welcoming.
I really can't recommend the experience enough, because that is what the Keefer is...an experience. -
Review from Cory J.
Vancouver, BC
12/9/2011
Wow! I've been meaning to check out the Keefer Bar for awhile and I've got to say that I was really impressed!
Venue: Unique! Dark cozy atmosphere with an opium den kind of feel to it.
Drinks: Fantastic! They have a great selection of cocktails. If you're a drink aficionado you'll love what they come up with.
Staff: Really friendly. We showed up with a big group and they were beyond accommodating even though it was already really busy.
If you're into cool/interesting bars (or just want to seem like you're the type of person that's into cool/interesting bars). I would highly recommend that you head over to the Keefer. -
Review from Melody M.
11/24/2011
So.......... I keep hearing lots of social events being held at this place, but I never had the chance to go this bar. Chinatown isn't my place to be wandering at night, but the Keefer Bar will make me come back.
I like the dark cozy atmosphere and big glass mirrors. It's trendy, but friendly and great place to go chill with friends.
The manager and staff are super courteous and friendly.
Love the dim sum snacks and drinks. Some of my favorite were the Opium Sour, Sexual Healing, and of course the Rosemary mint. -
Review from Evilyn T.
8/26/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I get it that this place is named for the street it's on, but Keefer sounds a bit too much like queefer if you know what I mean. I decided to check out their Sweet Sip Thursdays featuring the girls from Sweet Soul Burlesque, it's been going on for amost a year and I had still neglected to make an appearance. It was about time.
Me and my friend arrived around 9pm-ish, found street parking outside, and wandered in. We are lucky we got there before the show, because by 10:30 that place is bumpin! Just before 10pm a lady comes around and collects $10 from everyone (which is cover for the show) and gives you a small heart stamp on the wrist. Ten bucks for three rounds of burlesque, I'd call that a steal, especially after witnessing some of the sauciest, and most glamourous hand-gripping-your-drink-in-lust performacesin the city. Time to loosen that neck tie and order another martini, these girls bring it!
The venue itself is decorated super funky, and I'd consider hanging out there on a regular night (if it wasn't for the expensive and small portions on everything). The decor is a cross of chinese medicine and opium bar. It has test-tube lights that dangle from the ceiling and back-lit red panels with pictures of acupuncture and muscles in the human body. They also have numerous jars on the back bar filled with different things, but I couldn't quite read the labels, and a few skulls for show.
I ordered myself the "corpse reviver" which is a $12 cocktail, and the tartness to it will revive any corpse indeed. I am going to blame my strange dreams that evening on this beverage since I was in the midst of a dirt nap much like a corpse, when I was continually awoken to the most bizzare images my head had imagined. My second beverage was the "sweet intentions" which I honestly thought would be sweeter, but was good nonetheless. The drinks are pricey, but they are strong, and they do seem to use premium vodka in them. No Alberta vodka was going in my glass, I'll tell ya that much!
As I mentioned before, the place got super packed, to the point of actually being uncomfortable. However, this was because most of the people at the bar were crammed up to the front to see the burlesque show, and the performers mentioned that in the future they may just stream it live into the back room to reduce the crowding. It's gotta feel pretty stellar though when you're performing to a full house. These girls know how to bring in a crowd, Thursdays will never be the same.Listed in: Tips from the Halloween Queen
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Review from Dan P.
Vancouver, BC
10/29/2011
They have a very nice bar and the ambience cozy. Friendly staff and very well ran place.
The drink menu is very good. Drinks are excellent and original. They hi the mark.
Food was good but not much value. Typical tapa pricing and portion
I recommend this restuarant - I would go back. -
Review from Laura B.
11/25/2011 2 photos
We went to the Keefer Bar during a Girls Weekend in Vancouver. The place was PACKED - but they still found us a table fast and got us seated. I loved the decor - the long and narrow bar and seating areas with a great lighting scheme.
Loved that they sell group shots - we had one that tasted a bit like a chocolate cake shot, but with lime. Really yummy. I had the Bloody Mary spin off after that - it was really good to start, but very acidic! I had a hard time finishing it - but did enjoy it.
We also had the dimsum and the chinese churros. I HIGHLY recommend the Chinese churros. The dipping sauce rocked, and for a hater of cinnamon, these are the dream. Cinammon free!
We also met some really friendly people at the table next to us and it really seemed like a bar that you can easily meet people in due to its tight quarters.Listed in: Weekends Away
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Review from Ramon V.
7/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
I don't like this place at all. Yes, it has a stylish apothecary feel and an overall interesting look, but that's all it has going for itself.
The service: It should not take 20 mins at a time for the wait staff to check up on you on a not-so-busy Tuesday night. You shouldn't have to ask for a drink menu after sitting down for 20 minutes. An hour into our visit, we were asked if we wanted food, and we informed them that we hadn't received a food menu. We placed our food order, based on their recommendations, and we were soon after told that the kitchen had closed 15 minutes prior. That was worth a good laugh.
The menu: Far too pricey for so-so food items. And only a small selection to choose from. The spring rolls were very oily and have no substance to them. It seems as though food is only an afterthought. $6.75 for a bottle of cheap beer that was not cold enough. The cocktails are mostly in the $10-$12 range, which seems to be the Gastown copycat standard. When one of our guests received a drink that she did not like, we waited a good amount of time, and all they offered to do was add a splash of something into the now 1/2 hour old cocktail. Other places in town would have whisked it away and made a brand new one.
The attitude, service, attempt at being high-class and fancy, and overall experience fails on so many levels that it makes me wonder why anyone would care to visit more than once. I will do without a second visit. I should have done without the first.Listed in: Uno Estrellas
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Review from Vincci L.
Still loving this place. The ambiance, and drinks are all spot on.
Fun, creative menu for the drinks. Good music. Friendly staff.
How did I forget about you?1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/3/2010
Dark interior with modern touches. Very cool. A narrow room, with dark furniture. A hip place to… Read more »
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Review from Active R.
1/25/2012
Okay Bar - For the area where it is located it is nice. They decor had a concept which was fun. The drinks were awesome , we had shots it was different than the regular shots.
Only disappointing thing was the food. The chef did not come that day. They only had pizzas and spring rolls. I requested the mushrooms to be taken out and that was not an option. I think they microwaved the food. The shrimp spring rolls tasted like they were frozen ones and not freshly prepared. The pizza was burnt.
Go ahead for drinks and check if they have a chef before you head out to this place :) -
Review from Simon K.
Who would think a great bar/lounge would be located in the heart of Chinatown? Well, you have arrived to the "Keefer", a great place that I finally had the chance to enjoy, and on multiple occasions. First impressions are one thing, and coming to this place, it took me by surprise the first time, and now, time and time again.
When you come to this place, there is a small patio seating area in the front, with a fire while you sit around if you wish to hang outside. You have to remember that the building that you are in is very old building that has been redone, and if you look at the side facade you will notice that this building is long, but not wide. But when you enter this place, right in the front is some small tables, and a beautiful illuminated bar with at least 3 bartenders mixing their magic to get the drinks out to the patrons.
The back end of this place has more tables, and a darker, closer atmosphere, for a little bit more privacy. Anywhere you sit, you are going to get good service, and that shows from the staff, from the guys behind the bar, to the people greeting and serving you wherever you are sitting, it has always been the case for my visits to this location.
A memorable moment for me, was a bartender named Nevin (I hope that was his name) who somehow just made the night, by always surprising us with his bartending skills but also having some laughs with us and making us feel welcome. I will be back for more, as I have been already. If your looking for a spot, for drinks, come out of the downtown core, and come here! -
Review from Eva B.
7/22/2011
Space: Nice digs. I love the ambiance. The washrooms could be cleaner.
Service: Slow for no good reason. Please print more menus. We had five people sharing two menus as we were told they were in high demand. The fact is the space wasn't anywhere near capacity.
Cocktails: Inconsistent. The bartender made a cocktail for my friend and it was sweet, I ordered the same drink and it was bitter. Really is it so hard to follow a recipe?
Food: We ordered the spring rolls. I can describe them in one word: Grease.
Prescription: The place looks great, but you strive to provide better service. You need to take a serious look at either lowering your prices or improving the quality and consistency of the product you are selling. -
Review from Malloreigh M.
Vancouver, BC
3/29/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Oh, Keefer, I wanted to love you... and then I did. In fact, I loved you enough to spend more than I've ever spent at a bar before, and you didn't even have sesame balls (major disappointment). Also, I love you even though we paid our bill x2 because we were wasted. One member of our party left early, settled her portion of the bill, and then the remaining three of us were charged for her part again. I can't believe we didn't even notice til we compared notes the next day. (Please note that I am sure this won't happen to you if you visit Keefer Bar.)
But I'll still go back! We unwittingly stumbled into Sweet Soul Burlesque night, which was totally worth the $10 it cost us. Keefer Bar's gorgeous, inspired cocktails, the darkness of the location, and the sultry burlesque performers all combined to create the illusion that we were in a 1920s/prohibition-era speakeasy. Oh, it was wonderful.Listed in: Just One Drink, Business Time
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Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
3/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
I only go for the drinks but the I love the space. It's romantic and the closest thing that I've experienced in Vancouver to a LES NY bar.
We didn't feel too old, and because we were there early, we had a decent space. My only regret in writing this review is that now it won't be easy to find a spot there. :)
I'd like to try the food. It looks okay, but until I do, I won't review.
It's too bad that rooftop patio isn't open to the public though. At first I thought it was misleading that it wasn't, as photos advertising the place illustrated the patio, but now that it's winter (in March) I'm over it. -
Review from Erin U.
11/6/2011
I finally checked it out and its great! didnt make a thursday burlesque but I am going to try for this thursday! great environment and fun, crowd was mixed and everyone seemed to be having a blast!! Great drinks menu and I am on a bit of a cleanse so I only had 2 but wanted to try a few more lol, not sure about the food as I wasnt eating but it looked and smelt good going by. great location as well as I am a gastown, chinatown lover so I always love revisiting my old neighbourhood.
Listed in: Best dancing and music…
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Review from Dee B.
6/25/2011
A few colleagues and I picked the Keefer for an afterwork soiree.
You know, I loved this adorable little space in China Town, but what really boggled my mind was the food selection. How, in a city of stiff restaurant/bar/pub competition, does a bar offer about 5 food (mostly dim style) items?.....??? I'm still sitting here a tad confused about this.Comment from cam w. of Keefer Bar 6/26/2011
The main reason that we don't have many food choices is our… More » -
Review from Rad C.
Vancouver, BC
7/17/2011
I went to the Keefer Bar last week with some friends. The atmosphere was great, as was the beer selection, and I especially liked the front patio.
The bartender, however, was a major asshole. I bought a beer priced $6.95, gave him a ten, and received a toonie back. I always tip, and usually tip well, however when the bartender takes a tip of his own accord, that's totally inacceptable.
The bartender was working Sunday night around 10pm. I'd describe him if I remembered what he looked like, but I waited a week to post this and have forgotten. I'll make sure to pay with exact change next time. -
Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
2/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
After a particularly disappointing experience at the Waldorf's Tiki Bar, the Boyfriend and I wanted to have a really good drink.
The Keefer Bar delivers! I felt like I had stepped into another city as I walked into this space, boldly decorated with Chinese medical illustrations. The drinks list was inventive, fun and fresh, boasting natural botanicals, tinctures and fresh juices - I want to go back to try each one.
The space is chic, the atmosphere and music were great and our server Naveen was knowledgeable and friendly.
The next time I want to take a pal for a quirky drink or head out for a fun nightcap with the boy I will be heading straight to the Keefer. -
Review from Christine R.
New Westminster, BC
9/10/2010 1 photo
OK Yelp, you bug me to write a review, you take what you get. I didn't really care for Keefer Bar. It's effin gorgeous and all, but it took about 40 minutes from the time I walked in the door to the time I got a drink in my hand. The servers seemed more interested in pouring water than dispensing booze. Granted, the cinnamon-infused water was a novelty, but I don't go to bars to drink the water.
When I finally got a drink - an $11 Singapore Sling, I believe - it wasn't that great. The herb and flower essences are gimmicky additions and frankly don't do much for my tastebuds. If I wanted to drink perfume, I'd sidle up to the Bay's perfume counter and spray free samples in my mouth.
But like I said, it's a gorgeous space, built to resemble an apothecary shop in a ship's hull, so I at least got to feel cool while I stood around.
Happy now? -
Review from Liam D.
4/18/2011
Pretty sleek, seductive bar located in one of the places you'd least expect such a place: Chinatown. Dark wooden interior w/ red lighting & somewhat gross pictures of the human body (muscles and all) line the entire place. A trip to the bathroom results in you staring straight into a multi-colored x-ray of bones w/ screws in them. On your way back, you'll pass one of those devices that hold IV bags in hospitals. Weird.
Although at first, the CSI-type space might be off-putting, it sort of makes sense being that it's in Chinatown and incorporates several types of ancient Chinese herbal ingredients into the deliciously complex "Apothecary Cocktails" served here.
I had the Dragonfly, a delicious combination of gin, dragonfruit, sake, lemon, ginger syrup (which adds quite a kick!), and Magnolia Bark Tincture, which supposedly aids in digestive "qi;" and a "Red Lantern," which was gin drink served as part of their Spring Cocktails menu. The Dragonfly, despite being served as a martini resembling an emasculating Cosmotpolitan, was probably one of the coolest drinks I've ever had.
The lady had an Opium Sour, which blended Makers Mark w/ grapefruit, tamarind, poppyseed and tincture. She liked it a lot, and the poppyseeds were a cool/different twist on your typical bourbon cocktail. End of the day, however, I still tasted mostly bourbon, which wasn't quite as unique an experience as my girly dragonfly. She had something else that I can't recall...
This would be a great place for a 3rd date (you know, when you're planning on kicking things up a notch...) and although it's pricey, it's a cool experience. That said, spending an entire Saturday evening here might cost you a 1/4 of your paycheck, so be careful! -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
A little bit of mystery came upon me as I stood on the corner of Keefer and Columbia, looking for the right building. But once you lock eyes the Keefer, you'll know. Wandering in on their soft opening (aka friends and family -- looks like I crashed the party :-), I was greeted by friendly staff, eager to make me feel welcome. With their bar coming online only an hour before, I had been told that wine was the only availability. Settling in with my Grey Monk white, I had a good look around.
Dark and modern, yet flirting with light and tradition. Artwork panels, lit from inside, some with calligraphy, adorn the walls and ceiling. Narrow lights with bare bulbs hang in threes from the ceiling, exposed black cables.
The bar (which started serving cocktails while I sat) takes the expanse of the space with a bowl of exotic fruits, lemons and limes piled high. Classic offerings like Blood and Sand fill one papyrus page and creative Chinatown cocktails fill the other with names like Milk and Honey (Mekhong Whiskey, rice milk, coconut water) and Opium Sour (Makers, Tamarind, poppy seed tincture).
Snacks are also available, the daikon slaw sounded good but along with the array of cocktails still to be sipped, this will have to be saved for another Chinatown trip. -
Review from Clark K.
Vancouver, BC
5/4/2011
I had been told about this place by quite a few people, and although it is out of the way and a little tricky to find, Its what makes this place so great!
a diamond in the rough!
I wanted to take my lady out for cocktails, we both got much more than we bargained for! Flavors in drinks that i had never thought possible. who would have thought of making drinks from Chinese mushrooms?? but it just works!
Everything was beyond reproach, friendly (and gorgeous) server, and a smiling bartender with some crazy hair making the best drinks we've had in town, let alone the ghetto in chinatown!
combine the keefer with bow bay chinese restaurant up the road for the undisputed best date night in vancouver.
love the keefer! we will be back. -
Review from Roanna Z.
8/30/2010 3 photos
Our magical night was enhanced with the discovery of this super cool lounge. Almost incongruous in it's surrounding area of Chinatown, if it weren't for the underlying Asian theme.
Keefer is practically an art piece of it own;
Tube lighting drops down from the wood slatted ceiling, the transparency art light boxes that also adorn the walls in alcoves and seem to give the space an extra dimension.
The bar is bathed in a surreal aqua light and the drinks are mysterious herbal concoctions served up with flair.
I've never had any drink anywhere else that even came close to this one in it's distinctiveness. The Peach Sling. I now have an understanding of the word "mixology".
Instead of simply stopping in to a lounge or bar, we had the feeling of traveling to an exotic place, and we had no idea what we had found when we arrived at Keefer.
We found an adventure! -
Review from Allison F.
11/3/2010
The Keefer had me at it's adorable outdoor patio. It was pouring rain when I arrived, but the patio was fully set up, with lit lanterns at each little table. Perfect!
The bar's interior is dark but we enjoyed the creative lighting over the bar area. By sitting at the bar, we were able to watch the bartenders hard at work, making all kinds of creative beverages. I'm stuck on Gamay Noir wine right now and they carry my beloved Mt Boucherie's variety. Heaven. Slightly sweet while still having a nice mouth feel.
Thursdays are burlesque nights, with the first act starting at 10pm. Cover is $10 and be sure to come early to snatch a seat. Currently the troop Sweet Soul Burlesque performs each week and they have 4-5 performers and a hilarious host. The show is performed in the front window, which leaves limited seating/viewing areas, unless you're unexpectedly walking down Keefer St around 10:15 and happen to look at the main window. Curtains are not drawn and so the show is for all to see. And I mean ALL. But it's highly entertaining and the back area of the bar is still available if you happen not to wish to partake.Listed in: Wine = Mine
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Review from Johnson C.
Vancouver, BC
4/2/2010 1 Check-in Here
Slick Chinese apothecary/merchant junk-themed bar serving up crafted cocktails in the heart of Chinatown.
The dim, cozy ambiance is polished with some nice little details in keeping with the theme - the 'backwards' thin-paper menus, chi/reflexology inspired prints and drawers reminiscent of Chinese medicine cabinets are tasteful homages. My interior designer friend was pretty impressed by the design details - details completely lost on me, but it's a nice joint with a good vibe. This bar is a part of the wave of trendy nightlife popping up in the revitalizing Chinatown.
Their specialty cocktails are $10 - $12 which is a wee pricey but understandable given the ambiance, ingredients and preparation taken. I lucked out and got the right drink on the first try: an Opium Sour (my familiar Maker's Mark as base). The ingredients (which I don't recall) enhanced the flavor and didn't overpower the bourbon.
What I found odd was that the servers were heavily involved in the making of the cocktails - which is woefully inefficient with a crowded bar. At times, it was difficult to get some server attention as they were all behind the bar fixing drinks. Unsure if I was 'sipping' too fast or just get overly neurotic when I see the bottom of my glass coming and not knowing where's my next drink (boozehound).
However, it might have just been a case of coming here the night before a statutory holiday in a sizable group. Will give it another shot next time I'm in the area and in the mood for some classy cocktails.Listed in: A Compendium of Fine…, East Van Life
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Review from Curtis R.
Vancouver, BC
11/4/2010 38 Check-ins Here
I really like the Keefer bar. They have a great sound system with great music and the staff always make me feel welcome.
I noticed the other night that the illuminated graphics might be reflective of its original use before it was converted to the Keefer bar. Looked like it must have been an underground Chinatown TCM office with test tubes housing some strange combinations. The test tube lighting, the anatomical graphics and jars above the bar all looked like they were trying to either be designer cute or they were actually making a statement of its history. Will have to look into that and find out.
Overall, it is a great place if you want something different with good music and a well prepared cocktail. The staff have always been very welcoming to me and reflective of the somewhat offbeat and unusual hip vibe.
I did read other comments here and noticed they might be somewhat inconsistent with their service on other occasions. As a former bar manager in my past life, the most important thing in a bar is making sure the customers never have an empty drink and filling them up with cinnamon infused water may not be a good idea. -
Review from Peter S.
2/24/2010
As I sat at the Keefer Bar the other night, I felt like I was deep inside the bowels of a mighty merchant ship sailing the South China Seas. Maybe it was the slivers of mirror littering the ceiling like cracks in the deck, or the candles burning in all the nooks shedding scattered light amongst the patrons. Regardless, my Opium Sour was the perfect drink for this voyage!
I will set sail again soon with the appetite of a Surly Sailor to pillage their mysterious kitchen. Perhaps there is a treasure tucked in beside the bar? -
Review from Cyndi H.
Vancouver, BC
Wow, what a creepy but stylish place!
The Keefer bar is a long, narrow joint made artificially wider with mirrors. Smart move! The walls are decorated with backlit images of body parts (hence the creepy element). Being directly below chic rental units, it has been a spot for spying celebrities in town for movie gigs and whatnot. Apparently Owen Wilson hearts the Keefer (swoon?).
It's a pretty chic place, but doesn't have the homey feel that I love. The chairs aren't cozy (more of a place to stand around) and the space just doesn't feel inviting. But I'll give it one thing: it's cool.
The vibe is hip and modern, which is a great accomplishment given the neighborhood. I love all the risks that restaurants are taking by investing in the DTES, Gastown, Strathcona and Chinatown.
The drinks were beautfiully done by a female bartender-- I love that! The cinnamon water was also so innovative. So simple, but made such an impression. I can't believe I haven't had cinnamon water before!
We had some nibblies and those were decent, though I can't remember what they were now (d'oh).
