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- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Late Night
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
32 reviews for Libra Room Café
Review Highlights
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"Loved the live music, loved the reasonably priced food." In 11 reviews -
"Lovely jazz lounge with friendly service and fun atmosphere." In 12 reviews -
"...with various choices of wine, beer, cocktails and martinis." In 3 reviews
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32 reviews in English
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Review from Shawn C.
Vancouver, BC
1/22/2012
I like the Libra Room for weekend brunch because their huevos rancheros are some of the tastiest I've had in Vancouver. Also, the lighting is soft (like the jazz) and it's never full (unlike, say, Banditas further south on Commercial or Cafe deux soleils). Plus on Sundays they show Retrotoon on the TV screens so you can watch old Fantastic Four cartoons.
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Review from Food Ninja D.
Vancouver, BC
2/29/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Terrible: everything.
We found PLASTER from the KITCHEN CEILING (only found in the kitchen) in our food, and the manager wouldn't COMP ANYTHING, nor apologize, and only gave us 35% off coupons...
as if we'd ever go there.... -
Review from Beverly W.
Vancouver, BC
2/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
GOT A VOUCHER? AUTOMATIC 17% GRATUITY CHARGED! SCAM?!
If you have a voucher for Libra, you will be automatically charged 17% regardless of the number of people you have. I was surprised to have the gratuity already added to the bill considering it was just me and one other person. Libra normally charges 17% gratuity for groups of 6 people or more. However, the server explained to me that it was their policy to automatically charge 17% for gratuity when vouchers are used. Obviously, this was not indicated on the voucher itself. The voucher specifically stated "Please tip on full amount."
This was unfortunate. I am taking off points off my restaurant rating for Libra as a result of my inability to tip as much as I want. Libra did not mention 17% as the mandatory tip on the voucher and it is unpleasant to find this "policy" out when paying.
When I contacted the voucher company, they said that they have not received other complaints and that this may have been a one time incident. A scam from the server perhaps? All I can say is check your bill as they are trying to incur extra charges on your bill.
FOOD
The food was 5 stars in my opinion. We ordered mussels chorizo which had meatballs in the sauce. I really enjoyed it. We had coconut curry with shrimp which had an excellent presentation and was very delicious. I loved the fact that the dish was not just curry and rice; it had bamboo in it as well.
Their burger patties are housemade and I ordered a veggie burger which included fries and a salad. The veggie burger was thick and had lots of good content including avocado and a decent layer of tomatoes. The salad that was included was not the average side salad. It had red cabbage, pickles, and red pepper. The salad also consisted of higher quality leaves.
LIVE MUSIC
I did enjoy the live music that was playing. There was a trio playing jazz music. It is recommended that each person tips the band $5.
SUMMARY
Great food but I was disappointed with their enforced gratuity for anyone who uses a voucher. This was not stated on the voucher. I will not be returning due to the disappointment from this visit.
Veggie burger score based on value and quality: 5/5Listed in: Places to go or avoid for a…
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Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
2/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
I always forget to make a reso., and you can't do so upon your arrival. (Fair enough).
So, you start out, standing at the back, almost in the kitchen, and you gradually make your way forward as people leave, which isn't as bad as it sounds.
The place is casual, the people are friendly and the music is always great, no matter who plays.
The wine is average but fairly priced, and the pizza was surprisingly good. I liked the Greek.
Well-worth donating some extra bucks to the local bands, and it's a great place to go after dinner or a movie. The server was pleasant, too.
It would be nice if they invested in some additional coat hooks at the back, but those also become more plentiful the closer to the front that you move. At least, if there were any at the back, I couldn't find any, and no one pointed them out for me, so you are left to either hold your bulky coat or place it on the counter, which is exactly what you do if there is standing room only.
There is only one bathroom at the back on the right, but it is kept pretty clean.
Overall, I have no complaints, and I always have a great time at the Libra Room. -
Review from Lara O.
12/15/2011
Great music and the french canadian pizza was delicious! Service was pretty good considering how busy it was. We started with doubles which were way overpriced and tasted about as strong as lemon water. Switched to singles and they were better (smh) anyways, great atmosphere, easy street parking. Need more bathrooms, and need to not make such wussy drinks! ;)
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Review from Sonya R.
Burnaby, BC
9/29/2010
This place is off the CHAIN. The music here was just... there are no words. The guy played Santana, Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, and his skill was, in my opinion, on their level. Not being a jazz or music expert, it might have even been beyond.
It's reviews like these where I really realize how much more I have to go before I can articulate just how incredible he was. This was not a concert, just a regular night at a music venue... What? Seriously? This is happening here on what could possibly be a weekly basis? Maybe even more, since there are different live acts here every day...
To put it plainly, I was floored and enjoyed myself to a degree I couldn't have even anticipated. Long live music. Every time I walked by here I always regretted picking somewhere else. For a rich cultural experiece, to me, this is the cream of the crop. I've only been once, but if that can happen -ever- that's good enough for me to share.
Note: Don't know his name, don't know the date I went. It was all a haze. -
Review from Nat P.
Vancouver, BC
4/18/2011
This classy place makes me feel sexy.
The culmination of the smooth jazz, the candle light, the band flirting with the energy of the crowd, and a warm summer night breeze caressing my bare arms awakens something in me I tend to keep hidden. Suddenly i'm feelin' like a 1940's jazz lounge vixen. It's magic.
There's no 'cover', but money is collected throughout the evening, which I actually like. (just come with some twonies, and if you don't want to give to the band you just heard cause you thought they sucked, you don't have to give anything - the staff are really cool, and you won't get the stink eye, don't fret)
...Drinks and food are reasonably priced...
So just come and relax, and let the jazz, the candle light, and the mood of the Libra Room awaken your inner sexy lounge vixen. (and if you're a guy? trust me, just go with it...) -
Review from Vincci L.
12/31/2009 2 photos
Live jazz is really something. The deep sounds of the contrabass, the light strumming of the drums, combined with the soothing notes of the piano sweeps me up and allows me to forget all my troubles.
On a chilly weekday night, we decide to warm up with some drinks and jazz. We were seated right in front of the stage; the view couldn't have been better. The place isn't too big, but a open space makes this place a good location for live music. There's seating all along the wall, with high tables and stools which allows for a good view of the stage as well. There's also a large bar near the back, with a funky colorful backdrop.
Brick cut outs on the wall, along with paintings from local artists, give this place unique character. There's also a fireplace with couches near the back of the room, for a even more cozy experience.
Candles on the table create warmth, and the flickering of the light also makes this a great place for a date. Their food menu is comprehensive with standard offerings like nachos, and they also have share platters, perfect for groups. Their drinks menu is also extensive, with various choices of wine, beer, cocktails and martinis. Their cocktails and martinis are named after the astrological signs. Cool. The Virgo martini is made with vodka, white chocolate liqueur and espresso. You can't go wrong with white chocolate liqueur.
There's 2 bands featured each night. We were able to catch the second band perform, and they were excellent. The guy playing the drums was so into it he had his eyes closed for the most part of the performance. They do take breaks, in which they come over with a jar and ask for donations. I agree with Sarah O. that it seems like they are almost forcing it upon you to give money to support them.
Service is great here. There was a large party next to us, so it did get a bit loud for a bit. This is certainly a relaxing and enjoyable place to enjoy a drink, absorb the music, and have a great night! -
Review from Johnson C.
Vancouver, BC
8/30/2010
Jazz bar with a lively atmosphere - was pretty happening on a Saturday night. I usually avoid places with live music as I find that it makes for difficult conversation when the band is on, but the acoustics here are pretty good - so you can just enjoy the tunes or have a talk without shouting.
Someone comes around to collect donations for the band. While an unwelcome intrusion when trying to enjoy your meal, just be polite and firm if you don't want to contribute. I mean, this is Vancouver after all, I figured everyone are experts at blowing off beggars. I would suggest maybe a donation box near the bandstand.
There's no cover and the drinks are reasonably priced - jugs of beer were $16 tops and had a good selection including R&B Brewery. I wasn't too impressed with the food, we order the steak bites &chips for $11 and found the steak a bit chewy.
It was pretty busy on a Saturday night, so I can forgive the less-than-attentive service and lineup for the washroom. There is one 'stall' room each for the guys and gals, but it disintegrated into a 'first-come, first-serve' unisex ordeal - which is always unfair to the fellas. Guys are inherently gifted with 'express checkout' privileges. Sorry ladies, it's just the way we're wired.
The worst situation of all is if you're the guy next in line and the women's washroom frees up - sometimes, the next female in line will ignore the line simply lay claim. But it's irrelevant since the guy would probably surrender the spot to the next female anyways - any guy that wanders into a women's washroom is at risk of being labelled a sexual deviant. Such injustice - men's washroom rights now!
...(returning back from my tangent)... Anyways, I would give Libra Room 3.5 stars for the free cover, reasonable prices and passable food, but I'll round up to 4 stars for the unique and fun atmosphere.Listed in: A Compendium of Fine…, East Van Life
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Review from Leah C.
Vancouver, BC
11/11/2011
Loved the atmosphere when you first walk in and the live music really added to that, I usually avoid spaces that have music when you're eating in case you can't have a conversation but the jazz was great. Maybe music with a singer may have been a but different but I enjoyed the atmosphere. The food was great and service really quite fast, I had the beef sirloin which was just delicious! We'll definitely be back there.
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Review from Simon R.
BC
11/11/2008 1 photo
Not too long ago the Libra Room bought out its neighboring bakery and expanded the room to accommodate its "if a jazz bar and a sports bar had a baby" classy meets creepy restaurant and drinking space. The lighting is low, the feel is relaxed, and the outfits are expensive.
Live jazz bands and swinging country groups can be counted on to provide entertainment nearly every night, even if half the bar is trying to watch the game on the couches at the rear.
Good place for a date, if you need to make yourself seem high class. The drinks are fair, and the food is good, but more than you may regularly afford if you aren't high class enough. -
Review from Rose N.
Vancouver, BC
3/13/2010
We need more places like this in Vancouver!!
A great date place, it's fun, relaxed, great live bands, and surprisingly great food and service! When I go to places like this, I don't expect the food to be that good because I go there for the atmosphere and to enjoy good company. Its one place that I would recommend for out of towners to go. They too had a blast. The salmon and steak that we ordered was beyond our expectations and especially for such large portions! In Yaletown, you would be paying double! Waitress was funny and attentive. Down side is, usually packed, so make sure you get there before 9pm. It reminds me of a local bar in NY or Montreal. I wish Vancouver has more places like this without costing you your week's pay. I think Libra room has all the right ingredients. -
Review from Alex R.
Vancouver, BC
4/26/2010 4 Check-ins Here
Lovely jazz lounge with friendly service and fun atmosphere. The zodiac martinis are fun, and drinks are well priced and the food is quite fancy but unpretentious.
This is definitely a place to impress a date, so long as you both like jazz or light blues. -
Review from Roanna Z.
7/5/2009
I'm not a "loungy" type, but this local place makes everyone feel welcome. Out of town people and neighbourhoodies alike. Nice atmosphere, good drinks, and excellent service make this place a repeat destination for me. They also have live music.
Lot's of bar choices around here and this is a good choice! -
Review from Angela L.
12/16/2009
The sidewalk was littered with people by the time we arrived. We entered the strategically lit room to find that it was because the first of two jazz bands was taking a break between sets. Most of the tables were sat, but we were still lucky enough to have a choice between the high top banquettes, a quiet little table in the corner, a cozy nook around the fireplace, or a nice round table in front of the stage.
We ordered the nachos ($14) with guac ($2) which came ever so slightly over-baked, but still able to hit the munchie spot. The cocktails and martinis ($8.50) are all named after zodiac signs. Despite not actually being a Capricorn, I found the featured egg white in that drink quite tasty. Two of those was all I could take before reverting back to my trusty gin martini which came with plump green olives and was very much enjoyable.
The decor throughout the U-shaped room is comfortably dim and classy in that not-too-classy way. The paintings on the walls that night were beautiful and all for sale by the artist who was in attendance.
We were comfortable enough to stay there all night and have a feeling that we'll be back again soon! -
Review from Megan S.
1/18/2009 1 photo
Cute little place. They carry the astrology-theme into the names of their drinks. Feel daring and try some different zodiac signs.
I highly recommend this place for early evening drinks. I've snacked around here on typical appetizers. They're good.
Service is good. Waits are minimal. -
Review from Nadine W.
Vancouver, BC
4/26/2009
The live music here has been great both times that I've been here but the place is always packed and noisy even without the music. If you are expecting to have a decent conversation without shouting, this isn't the place.
As for the food, the menu is not extensive, almost all pasta at its simplest. Literally just pasta and sauce. It didn't even come with garlic bread or a bread basket. This was also the first place serving Italian food that I've been to where a spoon was not provided for the linguini or spaghetti (to twirl on!), and no one came around with fresh ground pepper or Parmesan.
However, aside from the mediocre food, the atmosphere is fun and the horoscope-themed drinks were tasty. -
Review from Hipstamatic Foodie B.
Vancouver, BC
6/6/2011
Awesome sangria! Do have a pitcher! Pretty decent food, not your typical pub food. Live music. Pleasant staff. Service can get a little slow when busy, so don't be in a rush.
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Review from Dani B.
12/9/2009
This place would have gotten 5 extra stars but when I arrived the live band was doing Celine Dion covers, noooooo!
I was so thrown off I didn't notice how cute this place is inside. The dim lights create a romantic atmosphere and the food didn't look bad either. I barely stayed for a drink though I was just too thrown off by the music.
Maybe i'll go again and give it a proper chance, unfortunately my review does not do this place justice. -
Review from Christine R.
New Westminster, BC
11/5/2009
How lovely it is to be able to get a cocktail without either putting on the pantomime of intending to order food or having to deal with the full pub experience - i.e., sports on TVs everywhere, Keno, and weird old men. The Libra Room is just a small, cozy lounge offering cheap-ish wines and astrological themed drinks. I went for an Aries Martini (you can order outside your sign) which was a citrus-y gin-based version of a Cosmo.
Alas, I had time for only one little drinky, but in that short time I was charmed by the bartender's friendliness. I concur that this is an excellent stopping-off place for a smart early evening drink when you're on your way to where you're going. -
Review from Isabelle G.
Vancouver, BC
1/2/2011
Atmosphere: Very spacious, busy old school Jazzy feel with a hippy Jazzy Feel. Good location on the drive.
Service: I called in advance to book a reservation at 5 pm on New Year's Day and even confirmed the reservation before hand, however, when my date and I arrived, we were informed that it wasn't open until 5:30 pm. We were seated anyway, however, felt awkward and felt as though we were an inconvenience even though we were on time for our booking. We were seated in the middle of the restaurant, away from public view, however, other's started coming in before 5:30 pm in large numbers (whom also had reservations around the same time), therefore, It wasn't a case of me misunderstanding. The waitress we had was awesome. She asked how our first bite was rather than if everything was okay. Her originality in phrasing how our meal was won points with me. The food arrived in less than 15 minutes of ordering. There was a billing issue that concerned me IE: Tip and dessert, however, I will get more into detail about that later. The waitress was very kind and patient in clearing the situation up for us.
Food: I was disappointed that no hot drinks were served in the evening as I like to have my tea with my meal. I settled for a none alcoholic drink in which I let the waitress have creative freedom to make anything she wanted for me since I am open minded and enjoy trying new things. I loved my drink. The Irish Nacho's were just like any other nachos that I've had before. My date ordered the peppered steak bites with home baked chips. The steak was well marinated, well cooked and well seasoned. The chips were fried fresh. For dessert we shared a dark chocolate fondue with assorted fruits and cakes. The only downside was that the platter came with red grapes that had seeds in them which were annoying to pick and spit, especially after dipping them in chocolate fondue. For the price that we paid for the fondue (will get into that later), they could've at least provided seedless grapes or another fruit alternative for smooth dipping.
Price: Everything on the menu is very reasonably priced. I would come here based on the price without a coupon, however, the $50 gift coupon certainly went a long way. The only issue that I had with the price is the 17% gratuity that was added. I have no problem tipping where service is due, however, this was mentioned nowhere on the menu. It was mentioned on the receipt that parties of 6 or more would have 17% gratuity automatically added, however, my date and I were only two people. I approached this with our waitress and made it clear that we were going to pay a tip since she did an awesome job at serving us, however, was bothered that a gratuity was added. She explained that she was instructed to do so 'cause even though we got a good deal on the meal, people tip on the difference, rather than the value of the meal, therefore, she had to add the gratuity. I accepted her explanation, however, was still a little angered by the situation. We left more than 17% tip considering that she did an awesome job. Had she not done an awesome job, I was prepared to just pay the HST and a reduced tip. Regardless of how much the value was, a tip should be earned, not expected. The price of the dessert on the menu for house special was listed as $6, however, I was shocked when I received my bill and it was $14. I approached this with the waitress and she apologized for not informing us. I let this go considering that it fed both my date and I and I was considering buying a dessert for him, however, once again, angered that she failed to mention the price difference. The coupon, the way myself and other's that I have confided in on both yelp and in my office, stated that we were to get a $10 voucher to come in for brunch on another day. We did not get our voucher, however, was explained that if we came during brunch time, we would've been reimbursed $10. This did not make sense to make and I re-read my voucher and it clearly started and implied that we would get a reduced rate during our next visit. I accepted this explanation, only 'cause based on the other billing issues, it was made up that neither my date or I were going to return. The price discrepancy made my rating from a 4 plummet immediately to 3 stars. -
Review from Sabrina S.
Montréal, QC
10/10/2009
I would give this place 3.5 I only had drinks so i can't give you any insight into the food.
Libra room has 2 bands per night every night. There is no cover but as previously mentioned by other reviewers, when they are done with their set they come by with the infamous jar to ask you for money. i think it would be better if they charge cover and be done with it... it's kinda uncomfortable when the band comes around asking you for money and you are trying to have a conversation...
The drink menu is pretty sweet, they have cocktails and martinis for each sign of the horoscope, it's quite entertaining.
They do have drink speacials and glasses of wine that start at 6$.
Next time I will try the food :) -
Review from Tyler V.
Vancouver, BC
3/18/2011
Okay so after 2 years of being clients here we have had nothing but disappointment. First a positive point. The Musicians are all excellent!
Thats about it. Price ok, staff ok. The Manager, I am assuming the guy with the hat does not know what he is doing.
He changed the menu a year ago, we stopped going. He changed it back ,we went back. We went last night and the food was disgusting! Seriously for the ok price i expect quality not what we had which was the worst Artichoke Dip I ever tasted.
We left.
Could not stand the fact no music was playing and it was close to 8... it said on sign that it was on at 630.
We had enough. Its not like this all the time but definitely not consistent, lacks management, poor chef and who needs a distracting TV in a music restaurant..?
Good Luck we'll not give a third chance and will find another place with music and hopefully a place that wants to keep us regularly. -
Review from Andy K.
Vancouver, BC
12/22/2010 1 Check-in Here
I've been to the Libra Room on a number of occasions and liked the Atmosphere. The staff are friendly and there is usually live music in the evenings.
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Review from Bryn D.
8/21/2008
Two local friends recommended this place for dinner/fun on the Drive. We went with one of them, ordered drinks, and the power promptly went out (on the whole street for blocks and blocks). Luckily the place is filled with candles so the ambiance held up quite nicely.
So, no food on account of the power, although we did share a Mediterranean appetizer plate ... Italian meats, olives, pickled onions, a big puck of goat cheese in lieu of baked brie, ... happy eaters. Except the unacceptably bland/cardboard white bread that accompanied it.
Service was maybe a little spacey but I can count that as part of the charm. This is a zodiak-themed establishment after all.
Oh, live jazz kicked off at 8pm and it was perfect. -
Review from Sarah O.
9/11/2009
$6 big pints of beer
unpretentious atmosphere
friendly service
2 live jazz bands playing every night (no cover charge)
need i say more?
one thing i disliked was the band taking breaks to collect donations from everyone at the restaurant. Harassing patrons for loose change while they're trying to enjoy a drink or a meal is a bad idea. I don't mind supporting local and small, upcoming bands.. but you can't force that shit on someone by walking around with a big jar and puppy dog eyes, begging and not taking "no" for an answer. Don't make me have to grill you the way I do to the window washers at stop lights.Listed in: Oat Sodas And Good Company., The Drive
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Review from Jasmine O.
Vancouver, BC
6/2/2010
I've heard this place is hit and miss. Well it was definitely a hit for me when I had brunch there this weekend. Server Erica Dee was a wonderful breath of fresh air and the florentine eggs benny served on whole wheat toast with avocado on the side made my taste buds water all day long. Check them out for brunch or the $12 beer and burger special anytime. Ask for your server's name and if it's Erica, tell her Jas says hi..
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Review from Louise G.
1/22/2010 1 photo
Have been here twice now in recent weeks. I have wanted to visit here many times before that but never seemed to have made the plunge. When a friend was visiting over the Xmas holidays and organised a little soiree there it was the perfect opportunity to get my introduction.
Last night I went back with a girlfriend of mine and it was the perfect place for us to go. Dinner, drinks, lovely music.
We both seemed to have a desire for roast beef; mine rare and hers well done. It was divine. The accompanying grilled tomatoes were done to perfection. The grilled eggplant was a little bit too peppery for my friend. The piece-de-resistance was the blue cheese au gratin potatoes baked in a puff pastry. AMAZING. I could have eaten a dozen of those. My date, who wasn't very familiar with blue cheese, really enjoyed this. I love when dishes can use ingredients that are sometimes not for the average pallet, and make them appealing and appetizing to all. I've put this dish on my list of things I must learn how to make myself. It was that good.
We enjoyed the music very much. A string quartet played during most of the time we were there. Everyone was very respectful of the musicians and the room went very quiet when they were onstage so no one was struggling to hear them over some overly intoxicated person rambling loudly. Not at all. Once the music started you could have almost heard a pin drop.
Definitely a lovely place to go for a delicious dinner, some great cocktails, live music (7 nights a week) and beautiful atmosphere.
Will be returning.Listed in: There and Back Again, OUT OF TOWN
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Review from Noushi E.
Vancouver, BC
10/24/2010
Loved the live music, loved the reasonably priced food. One of the guys in the band came around with a glass jar to get tips and THAT, I found to be rather uncomfortable... not exactly a classy move one would say!
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Review from TOMICA D.
Vancouver, BC
9/23/2010
When a place advertises that it has live music I'm always a bit cautious. Live music can really help the atmosphere but it can also ruin it if the band is like, really really bad. I prefer to save my live music for bands I choose to see which unfortunately comes with a price (a pretty hefty one too in Vancouver! What happened to seeing great bands in small venues for 15$? Oh right, we're not in SF anymore Dorothy!)
However, the Libra Room rocks. I've been here many times and the bands have always been pretty good. Whether its live jazz or a Britney spears inspired ska band it's always a good time. And the music they play in between acts is pretty good too. Everything from MGMT to Ru Paul (who doesn't love that Supermodel song?!) And so it's become my favourite place on the Drive. While the Drive may have a fine selection of places to eat the night life is pretty tame. If you find yourself out in that area later at night hit up the Libra Room - good any day of the week. The serve food til late. They even started doing Brunch which I have yet to check out but am looking forward to. You wont regret it. -
Review from lisa b.
Vancouver, BC
3/8/2011
after yesterday's dinner at the libra room- felt the need to share how poor the food here is.
seafood pasta: mussels were dirty, scallops were rubbery, fish was dry and wine sauce was grey + oily
veggie platter: was likely purchased down the street from la grotta and included mostly olives for $18
that being said, the music is in another category completely. great jazz by skilled local musicians...just don't order the food! -
Review from J G.
Vancouver, BC
8/27/2008
The Libra Room is a funky Vancouver establishment that bills itself as an intimate and colourful jazz club, and in this they deliver. They serve food and "astrological martinis" that go with the astrology theme here, but the real treat is the cozy ambience and the nightly live music. This is one of Vancouver's treasures.
