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The Charlatan
Categories: Restaurants Canadian (Traditional) Nightlife Bars Pubs Canadian (Traditional), Pubs [Edit]
1447 Commercial DrVancouver, BC V5L 3X8
Neighbourhoods: Grandview-Woodlands, The Drive
(604) 253-2777
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 4 pm - 1 am
Fri 12 pm - 2 am
Sat 11 am - 2 am
Sun 11 am - 1 am
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Late Night, Dinner
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sun, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
56 reviews for The Charlatan
Review Highlights
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"One of the best eggs benny ever is served here." In 3 reviews -
"Attentive service and loads of beers on tap." In 5 reviews -
"...also a great place to watch hockey and inside is quite..." In 4 reviews
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56 reviews in English
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Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
5/14/2012
I think I've found one of my new favourite patios in the city! We had breakfast on the drive in the scorching sun and decided to stick to patios, but wanted something in the shade. The Charlatan has a great big patio, half in the shade and half in the sun.
When we first walked in I was really surprised by their beer selection. They have a great selection of local beers and they aren't too bad. About $7 a pint, which is not great, but I'd rather pay $7 a pint for good beer than $4.50 for backwash.
The service was okay, it was pretty busy on the patio, but dead inside and the servers were busy doing other things, but they were still nice.
It surprises me that I haven't spent much time here before, and am pretty sure I will in the future! I hear the food is good, so I'll have to check it out!Listed in: The Drive
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Review from Edward L.
Came here on a tip from Ada L. While it wasn't life-changing good, the place is definitely pretty happenin'.
Parking is available on the side streets, though you may have to walk a block or 2.
The layout is a bit curious, as it's split into 3 "levels". The "highest" level (closest to the entrance) is taken up almost complete by a giant bar. The washrooms are also on this level. Not sure about the ladies' side, but the men's room is so tight that you can't even turn around. The 2nd level has a giant TV (with some problems with picture quality), and the 3rd (lowest) level has another bar, with a giant projection screen.
Today (Friday) the beer specials were 1516, and Farmhand Ale. The ale wasn't bad, and was slightly bitter. Not at the same level as an IPA though.
For food, I had the steak and fries. The steak is one solid piece. Beautiful. They let us substitute fries for the yam variety. On top of the steak was a flat round slice of something. I thought it was cheese, but it was actually dill butter. Yikes. The fries were covered with garlic and green onions. Super tasty.
I also had a spicy chicken quesadilla. Yup, this one is spicy. I really liked how they didn't go too crazy on the tomatoes, as that normally turns the outer tortilla into mush. Again, one of the better ones out there.
The staff were very friendly and quick. Great service.
I must say I was pleasantly surprised at the experience.Listed in: 2012 Ed's Picks
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Review from Rebecca C.
Vancouver, BC
3/17/2012
I barely ever get out of town so when the opportunity to have a sleepover at an old friends place with Red Wagon on the brain (see below) presented itself I was more than game. We headed to the Charlatan for dinner because I was overhung and needed grease - the place was packed so packed that we initially got seated on the patio which is very poorly heated indeed and I instantly regretted my decision to order a strongbow but the servers kindly noticed how cold we were and offered us an inside table when one became available.
Perusing the menu I saw the usual pub fare so opted for the turkey club, the others in my party ordered the pot pie (which looked flakey and delightful btw), and the chicken burger. I wasn't overly impressed, the servings were massive but the fries were only tolerable. Then they brought a group of 8 people to sit at the four top next to us with very little apology and things became cramped and to be honest a bit annoying as we were also waiting for more friends to arrive - what ended happening was that we were forced to move tables AGAIN - to that debacle I say hmpf.
Overall, not a terrible place but not that great of one either - I may give it another shot but I might just go elsewhere on the drive, there is no lack of options after all....... -
Review from May P.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 5/20/2012
Since my first visit to The Charlatan, I have come back 4 times and it keeps getting better and better. The patio is fantastic in the summer months and I just love the service here, the girls are so friendly and 'normal'!!
The food and drink selection is great. I have tried lots of different Veg options and they were all really tasty and well cooked. This place has become my favorite place to go for Friday night drinks.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/26/2011
If you need a place to relax without feeling uncomfortable this place is a good choice. Rocked up on… Read more »
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Review from Ada L.
Vancouver, BC
1/16/2012
Charlatan has one of the best beer and food combos on the Drive. In an unpretentious but chic atmosphere, they have a great selection of drinks but their food is also fantastic. It's our usual haunt for a casual night out.
I don't have much to add that hasn't been said, other than try their tuna bites, Thai curry and Mediterranean lamb burgers. The Delirium beer is also delish. Don't let their signature pink elephant glass fool you, Delirium's been voted one of the best beers in the world for good reason. -
Review from Tessa B.
1/3/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I freakin' LOVE The Charlatan. It's a little different from my usual Drive haunts, but that's okay! It's good to have variety, yeah?
First off, it's pretty and dark. Yeah, that's right, I'm not afraid to admit that I like it dark. I am a post-goth after all. It's got a nice, upperscale aesthetic, but it's not pretentious or snotty at all. The servers are easy on the eyes, too *wink wink*
They have tasty appies, delicious drinks for decent prices, and seating that is conducive to good conversation in a nightlife environment.
I've never been during the day, but heck, I should!Listed in: Best Bloody Mary's!
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Review from Tess M.
Vancouver, BC
1/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
I won a GC from them simply for following them on Facebook...it was for $50, so first let me say....GO FOLLOW THEM ON FACEBOOK because they draw two winners every single month.
I had heard good things about this place but wasn't sure what to expect. I'm glad I checked it out.
I started with the ribs that were not BBQ joint good, but were still quite tasty.
For my main I had mussels off the fresh sheet...OMG, SO GOOD. I was surprised. I eat a lot of mussels and these were some of the best ever. It was the whole cloves of roasted garlic that really did me in...I could not stop eating the broth. So needless to say I was really impressed and would absolutely go back. -
Review from Niko D.
12/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Beer selection is wicked awesomeness! The food is quite good. Order the Trio of Frites and be ready for it...mmmm balsamic reduction ... Ha!
Ummm...Its a good place to watch the game or date.. Good sized screens..friendly but not cactus club like servers...(good, pretty service without needing to drop spoons to get good tips) ha ha...made myself laugh.. -
Review from Brian B.
Coquitlam, BC
8/10/2011
This is another place right across from where I work. While nothing about this place is terrible, nothing stands out as being particularly great either. From my experiences there it seems to be average right across the board.
Now I can't comment on the food since I've never eaten here, but the drink selection is quite good. They will make just about any cocktail or shooter you can think of and have lots of beers on tap which is great after a bad day at work.
The service is always hit and miss here. Sometimes I come and have the most friendly, attentive servers ever who will do just about anything to make sure that I get exactly the drink I want (eg, asking which whiskey I would prefer in my cocktail) and then other times I come and it seems as though nobody even cares at all that I'm in the place.
The decor is fine - I tend to prefer darker/dimly lit bars and pubs so this place is right up my alley, though I wouldn't say it's outstanding in any way. They also always have the game on which is great if you're wanting a good place to go on game nights.
Overall it isn't terrible by any stretch, I wouldn't go out of my way for it either.Listed in: Watering holes
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Review from Lara O.
3/10/2012
Nice decor, and lots of people which is good! The service was horrid. And not in a bearable they are busy kind of way, in a your drink isn't done yet but are you ordering another one. The two ladies beside me ordered fries as an appy and they hadn't even arrived yet and the waitress was like "do you know what you want to order yet?" and they said "we'll just start with the apply for now thanks..." It has a cactus club/earls feel to it despite the fact that the waitresses at those places are usually at least fake nice. I had the fish and chips, they were tasty but no wonder they have an add a third piece option, they are tiny tiny fish servings but more chips than humanly possible to finish! Also, if your going to have Fish and chips, get a decent tartar. That squeeze bottle stuff put into a little tin to look fancy isn't going to cut it! ;) Beer selection is awesome here! Although they didn't have what I was wanting, (harp) there was lots of good things. Also, my friend frequents this place and asked what the twitter special was and the waitresses magically forgot they have specials for when you show you follow them in twitter. Luckily the bartender knows, and she got her free drink (follow them on twitter people!) Overall, will not return. Unless I'm desperate, but hey, it's the drive! Walk a block and go somewhere better :)
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Review from Andrea P.
12/27/2011
Drink list is awesome (good selection of cocktails and beer), food is just okay (avoid the poutine grilled cheese), but this place is great for accommodating large groups. I went with a party of 24 and, considering the group size, the service was pretty good.
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Review from Jasmine O.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 2/2/2011
I don't mind paying a bit more for brunch on some weekends. If I do choose somewhere pricier than normal, on the drive, then the Charlatan is the way to go. One of the best eggs benny ever is served here.. delish!
I will wander my hungover butt in there on any given Sunday, friends in tow, and sip myself a double caesar for under $6 if I haven't spent all my money the night before OR if I want to impress a newbie. Way to go Commercial Drive.. Again!Listed in: Alive on the Drive, Where you'll find me, Drink it up, Breakfast of CHAMPS!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/19/2010
Well, I've been waiting to have a very recent visit before writing my review. That visit was today..… Read more »
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Review from Alex L.
Vancouver, BC
1/15/2012
the charlatan. always a good time when i go here! the servers are awesome, the bartender always takes care of us.
they have a good selection of beers to choose from and not your everyday regular beer.
the food here is better than what you would expect from a pub. love the pulled pork sliders and the moroccan chicken bites as appys. and the burgers here are great!
definetly a great place to go with some friends to have some drinks and a meal! -
Review from Erin U.
11/7/2011
went tonight and thought to myself ..I should write a review! Ive been there tons back when I lived in East van but dont go much now that im in Yaletown. Went in for a caesar and they have deliscious doubles on for 5.75 every sunday! score, also a great place to watch hockey and inside is quite charming. I didnt eat today but I remember their food being awesome and a tiny bit pricey...but awesome! so its worth it. only reason it loses a star is because sometimes the service could be better. Hostesses always seem on the ball but the servers are a bit slow. I will see next time tho!
Listed in: Best dining and drinks…
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Review from Sarah D.
5/23/2011
A charming local pub on the Drive, the Charlatan manages to be both a) a great spot to watch the game, and b) an intimate, cozy place to enjoy a few drinks with a date/friends.
A lot has been said about the Charlatan already, but I must add this: if you're a Guinness/Kilkenny/Strongbow (not necessarily together) fan like I am, you'll love this place. There aren't too many bars in Vancouver that will serve up a proper Black & Tan, but you can add the Charlatan to the list of pubs that do. Oh yeah, they do proper Snake Bites, too. The last time I was there I think I paid $8 for a pint, but Guinness and their associated brews are always expensive in this town. Once a week or so they're on special, or they'll offer a burger and beer deal where you can choose ANY beer, so you can get your Guinness for a decent amount.
Speaking of burgers, the food at the Charlatan is pretty darn good. All around, the Charlatan is a great choice if you're looking for a chill spot to spend a few hours at on the Drive. -
Review from Laura M.
Vancouver, BC
1/11/2011
Tuna Bites. Chicken Burger. Eggs Benny. Beer.
These are the four things that you need to know about... in my opinion of course.
I really enjoy the atmosphere at the Charlatan. Its a really fun place to go on the weekend..I've had good service every time I can remember going. If you are looking for a quiet chat.. best not to go on friday/saturday night, but luckily they have a variety of seating.
The balcony is great in the summer..sheltered by christmas light covered willow trees.
If it matters to you.. or If you're a man, the waitresses are hot
Also: TUNA BITES.Listed in: Breakfast
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Review from Vanessa G.
5/13/2011
We came here for a going away party, and when the host kept taking me farther and farther behind the layers, i was really surprised at how big this place is. Furnished with mad men style wood, and lighting to boot, we cozied into the back room. Beer selection wasn't that crazy but can't complain about drinking local beers. We ordered nachos which were really good. My friends ordered the chicken, brie, pear sandwich which they both said was devine. I ate there left over french fries and they were amazing, salt and peppery.
The also had this big pull down projector screen in the back room which is great for watching games. -
Review from Shannon B.
Coquitlam, BC
1/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have only been here to drink so I can't really rate the food. The first time was on a bad blind date about a year ago, and the second this past weekend with a friend to get all juiced up for his birthday.
Being a Saturday night it was busy and crowded and we were seated downstairs at the back. Our waitress was very friendly and comped us two shots on the house (thanks birthday boy!). We proceed to order and down various different drinks, some of which took a while to arrive at our table, but we were having too much fun to really be annoyed by it. The atmosphere was fun and the music was good. We made friends with several drunk strangers over the course of the night and one guy even came up to tell us we were the best looking "couple" in the bar (awww). We stayed until closing, settled a VERY pricey drink bill and stumbled off into the cold winter night. Fun and neat place to hang out and have a few drinks on the Drive.Listed in: You've got to try it at least…
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Review from Jordan S.
Vancouver, BC
6/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love Commercial Drive, I love patios and I love places that sell a good selection of drinks and have delicious food. I was hoping The Charlatan was going to fill all of these categories but I found it lacking just about all of them.
We get seated on in exceedingly inaccessible back patio and ordered some sangria to sip on while enjoying Italian Day on the Drive. The sangria came as a half-liter for $10. The price wasn't terrible except for the fact that half of the half-liter was ice and there was MORE ice in our glasses to pour the sangria in to.
We ordered a few appetizers and decided to share the beetroot & goat cheese salad. In all we had calamari, pulled pork sliders and the salad. The calamari wasn't terrible but neither was it great. The sliders were dull and the pulled pork lacked any taste. The worst was the salad...
I'm fairly certain the pickled beets came out of a can. I needed a knife to cut them up into edible pieces. We found bits and pieces of other salads in the greens mix and the walnuts were neither toasted nor fresh.
I've made a salad like this before at home with candied pecans, chevre, spinach mixed greens and julienned beets. It took no time and was delicious. Remind me to send the Charlatan the recipe.
All in all, over-priced and underwhelming. -
Review from Nam N.
Vancouver, BC
3/21/2011
Beer. Lots of it. Love this place they have so much choices on tap.
Pretty good pub food too, loving the Chicken Wings, Nachos, Mini-Sliders. Great place to hang out any night of the week, especially hockey night. Good vibes and great service. Upbeat atmosphere, great to hang out with all your friends.
There's specials every day too I just can't remember which was which. But 'wings' night would be my fav...that might have been a Tuesday. Nice patio for the summer but it can get real packed if you get there too late.
PRICE: Pub prices with daily specials.
SERVICE: Awesome. The bartenders will get to know you pretty quick if you keep coming back :)
SUGGEST: If you wanna try some place on The Drive, The Charlatan is numero uno for me. One of my drinking holes so you might find me here during the week. -
Review from Shannon B.
Vancouver, BC
5/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
My first experience at the Charlatan has been impressive. We gathered for a friend's birthday party. With the hockey on we thought it to be highly unlikely that they'd allow us to make a reservation for a large party, sure enough they did.
Great attentive service, awesome food and when our party dwindled in numbers and another party arrived the manager asked us if we would move tables and to thank us bought the entire group a round of drinks. -
Review from Jasmine T.
Burnaby, BC
11/11/2010
Although it's kind of loud, it's a nice place for Friday Night Date Night. While we were on the Drive for some Italian, the menu swayed us to come in...
They had a special tasting menu to go with some ESB... I have no idea what it stands for... I think it means extra strong beer, ahaha... seriously, no idea. We had already ordered drinks, so the beer came after with the actual dinner instead of the mini (I am gonna stress MINI) appetizers. We ordered the Grana Padano cheese drizzled with honey and some ribs covered in honey. The salty honey was good on the cheese... the ribs were really juicy and sweet.
What swayed me to come in was the Brisketine. Poutine with brisket. Wow. While they have a huge menu, I was after this. The fries were fried nice and crisp. The gravy was rich and meaty... the brisket was nice and fatty. The green onions added a subtle onion flavour. The cheese was nice and melty. I could get this again and again.
I got a coke. It was okay. It tasted like the weird pop from the Flying Tiger when they had their broken tap. -
Review from Rachel P.
Vancouver, BC
11/21/2010
We went to The Charlatan for brunch and it was A-OK.
The brunch menu looked a little stock-standard to me, so the table I was with ordered the brunch special, which at $10 was a good deal. It was Eggs Benny with turkey and bacon, roasted garlic and a chipotle hollandaise.
It was totally a trip to flavor-country! Gotta love a creative Benny!
I had the lamb burger with blue cheese, quince jelly and pine nuts. The portion was really decent. I adore fruit paste with stinky cheese, and am a huge blue cheese fan, but thought a slightly less sharp blue (or slightly more quince jelly) would have got the sharp/sweet combination perfect.
Really tasty Caesars and free mini donuts with coffee. Attentive service and loads of beers on tap. Average atmosphere/decor/music.
A solid three stars. -
Review from Kristen F.
Vancouver, BC
8/13/2008
Do you like chicken pot pie? Then come here! it's the best I've had in a loooooong time! I'm so use to the places in LA that serve those crap-tastic pies that taste like it came frozen from the super market but here they put a real fucking crust on top! Heck yeah!
Beer flows here like it flows through my veins. They have a good selection of beer on tap. The employes are super friendly as well. It's a great place to chill after work or with friends. A few tv's as well so you can relax and watch your favorite sports channel.
The menu also features specials on certain days. Almost all you can eat wings on Tuesdays for 50 cents. WOOHOO! -
Review from Lisa N.
Vancouver, BC
4/11/2011
I've only been here for their brunch menu, never at night for drinks. Came on the weekend both times, first time it was pretty crowded and sunny weather, second time it was a bit slow.
The food is pretty great, very generous portions. Everything is very filling. Both times I tried different skillets, lots of roasted potatoes, hams, corned beef, eggs, toast. Nothing generic about it, just good stuff that maybe a nice mom would make on the weekend (I don't have a nice mom, that's why I need to go out for a deelish brunch, hahah). My friends have ordered their English muffins with hollandaise sauce, man, that stuff looked SUPER creamy and yummy.
I've never had drinks here (I make it a rule not to drink before 3PM), but I will definitely be back for brunch. The menu is about.. 8-15 dollars per item. I can never finish whatever I order, so don't order too much or you'll end up stuffing yourself! -
Review from Michael C.
Vancouver, BC
5/11/2010
My buddy and I were looking for a place for some food and drinks, soooooo I jumped on the yelp app and searched up a place close by.... The Charlatan came up and it looked decent from the reviews. Beers and pub food? How can you f that up right?
The place looked decent and has a patio for the nice weather we been getting lately, so... sold! Order a beers, brisketine (beef brisket poutine), beef burger, and beef soft tacos. haha, love beef much? lol didn't notice till now. Anyways, food took a bit longer, but that was alright. The thing that was really upsetting what the charcoal crusted burger I got. I mean this burger was charred too... well you know what.... I took one bite into a bitter, dry, and .... extremely disappointing burger. I opened it up and it was not just a little brunt. It was fully black on both sides and normally I don't send food back, but I got to. How can any cook serve something like that. Have some pride in the food that you put out.
The service on the other hand was good, but she didn't apologize for the food or try to make any difference to make my experience better. I don't like to write bad reviews, but Charlatan.. after trying that hockey puck that you served me...... 1 star!Listed in: Yelp, why me?
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Review from Bart E.
Vancouver, BC
8/20/2009
Yet another hot spot on the D-Rive....great booze on tap, and surprisingly good food! Tables inside seem slightly cramped due to space taken up by awesome bar. Fight your way on to the patio and score a coveted people-watching palace. And of course, mix with the Drive's gentrifying-by-the-day crowds...
Book it. -
Review from Simon R.
BC
11/17/2008 1 photo
Once the location of a bumbling beat poet bar, with Bukowski written on the tablecloths and ambiguous classification of the washrooms, The Charlatan has gutted whatever was left from the beat generation and scrubbed the "poetry" off the walls in the bathroom.
Renovations have kept the bar's three levels, with the couches next to the fireplace on the second level acting as the nicest seat in the house. Think unnecessary wine glasses hanging upside down around the bar, and dimmed track lighting next to the pipes on the high ceilings.
It's like the poets got real jobs, grew out of their immaterial Zens, and decided that they would prefer leather couches, attractive waitresses, Caesars with 3 green beans, and yam fries with their lamb burger. But it is spacious, with very good service, and has a wide range of beers at moderate prices. There is an outdoor deck as well, but it is obviously rendered moot by rain more often then not. Cozy and snug, expect Yuppies and DINKS (Double Income No Kids), and tables to seat you and up to 7 of your friends. -
Review from Rachel F.
Vancouver, BC
5/18/2011
I first heard about this Commercial Drive hotspot from some friends who had attended a very special fundraiser and silent auction there; a benefit for a young wife and mother who is fighting breast cancer.
That a restaurant on the Drive - a Vancouver neighbourhood known for its strong sense of community - would turn itself over for an evening like that piqued my interest almost as much as my friends' report on the food. My friend's notoriously hard-to-please husband had nothing but high praise for his meal, a dish that is known for being basic and boring: meatloaf. "It's wrapped in bacon," he gushed.
The perfect opportunity to try out The Charlatan arose recently, when a friend of mine was visiting from out of town. I was pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere, for while it is very much a neighbourhood joint with prominent bars and flat screen TVs showing whatever game people are concerned with, it simultaneously manages to have the air of an intimate eating spot. The sports bar aspect is really tempered by the dark wood and modern decor, enough so that if a couple were to go there on a date it would still feel romantic and the mood wouldn't be overwhelmed by the feeling of being in a local pub. There are also plenty of booths available, which is nice for those guests looking to connect and converse.
Seeing as my guest was on his first visit to Canada, it seemed fitting to order poutine to share as an appetizer. The fries were fresh and crispy, covered in hot gravy and smothered in generous amounts of cheese. I enjoyed this particular poutine because the cheese was actually melted; there's nothing worse than hot French fries and gravy surrounded by lumpy icebergs of cheese curds. Needless to say it was a decent starter and we made short shift of it. For my own entree I ordered the meatloaf (i's wrapped in bacon!) I'd been dreaming of and it really was quite good. Although the meatloaf itself was a touch dry, it hada nice taste to it and I did enjoy the presentation. The medallions of meatloaf were, of course, wrapped in bacon and served with a rich onion gravy, garlic mashed potatoes, and perfectly sauteed carrots and zucchini. Oddly enough, it was the vegetables on my plate that really stood out to me - they really were perfectly dressed and cooked. My guest ordered the jambalaya and enjoyed it Both entrees were nicely portioned, filling, and very reasonably priced for under $15.
The overall dining experience was a good one and I'd definitely go back there for a drink, appies, or a meal. The room at the back is a great place to hold private functions (there's a bar there as well). The Charlatan is a great addition to the Drive, doing a great job of filling the gap between local pub and medium-priced restaurant. -
Review from Martin T.
Québec, QC
1/14/2010
The Charlatan is my local watering hole. I have been there many times. To catch up with a friends or to talk "business" (do go game night where it gets loud like in any Vancouver pub).
I have been a big fan of the Five Points and I was very happy to know they were opening a similar place on The Drive where the Bukowski used to be. The food is quite good. From the appies to the main course. Good comfort food (burgers, meatloaf) but they also have some nice seafood pasta, jambalaya, etc. They have an okay wine list for a pub and a great selection of beers (taps and bottle).
The place has 3 levels. The 1st level has a big bar with many TVs above. The many taps along the bar give it a very cool look. The second is more table with only 1 giant screen and the 3rd level is more cozy. On game night it gets quieter as you go further. The place has been renovated recently. The addition of a big mirror on the second floor opens the place. The patio is wonderful in the summer. I like the fact that it is pretty much one row.
Like many place on The Drive the service can be hit and miss, but compared to the average service level on The Drive, it is above.
And the poutine there is okay -
Review from Alex R.
Vancouver, BC
10/19/2010 3 Check-ins Here
This was one of the first bars I ever visited in Vancouver and I still come back. I really like the side patio even if some of the sitting positions aren't comfortable; the foliage on the South side gives the patio a nice summer evening feel.
The beers are really well priced at $5. Pub food is a little pricey considering it's pub food but the more dinner-like food is quite good. The servers are always quick and friendly and if you're looking to watch the game, you'll find yourself in good company all the time. -
Review from Kevin S.
Vancouver, BC
2/19/2010
I don't know why I keep giving this place a chance. It was sub-standard as Bukowski's and it's still a third rate restaurant.
The food is totally devoid of character, the decor is the same, and it has the aura of what you might experience outside the back door of a cheap tattoo parlour -- great if you're into that. But at least you'd get better music at the tattoo parlour.
That said, the staff are always upbeat and friendly, as they were last night, and the beer selection is decent. -
Review from Johnson C.
Vancouver, BC
9/20/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Dark and dank pub on the Commercial strip with a small outdoor patio. There are a lot of beers on tap (about 15 or so) and usually around $5 - $6 a pint. Good prices on beer. They seem big on hybrid Guiness (i.e. Black & Tans, Black & Velvet, etc.). Even for Commercial Drive, this place is wee bit too hipster but it is definitely popular.
I remember coming here a while ago and it seemed like all the waitresses spent all their time and paychecks at tattoo parlors. This time around, it looked like I walked into a Cactus Club by accident.
A-OK place to grab a beer - nothing amazing and nothing overly offensive - and sometimes, that's all you want. -
Review from Cody S.
2/9/2011
Great Place to have a drink! I was pleasantly surprised to have such a nice experience here. We were just looking for a place to have a couple of drinks and we wandered here. We were seated promptly and were greeted pretty quickly. The beer selection is great and the hockey was on. Good Times. The drink prices are great. I can't say that very many times in Vancouver. The waitresses are kind of odd...seems like they spend alot of time trying to help the place be hip. The music was a little off...but I like it and I will definitely be back.
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Review from Ramon V.
12/23/2010
Dear Charlatan: Your rating level decreases every time I visit. Why it is that a place so well situated, with a good menu, and great for bringing friends along to watch a hockey game, can fail on so many levels of service? One time can be forgiven, but perhaps I'm sadistic by letting myself return and setting myself up another disappointment.
The meals at our table were completely wrong one meal. The correct order followed a good half hour later, and the manager came to us and apologized, saying that our meals "would be taken care of". We did what any sane human would do; graciously accept the offer and promptly ask for the drink and dessert menus, and commence the good times. When the bill arrived, the total was even higher than the original amount because the Wednesday burger and beer special was not discounted.
Long story short, our waitress told us we were wrong and finally agreed to mend the bill. When it all added up, a one dollar discount was applied to each person's meal. I mentioned the issue and she re-affirmed that it had been fixed, and asked if I wanted her to fix it again. Too little too late, we already halfway out the door and didn't want to cause a fuss with my friends in tow. I emailed the issue to them that night, and have never received a response.
On my most recent visit, knew what I was ordering without looking at the menu. The short ribs, cole slaw and corn bread. $11 and my favourite item there. I'd had it two weeks prior. Lo and behold, the waitress said that it was no longer on the menu, and that it was now an appetizer without the extras, and $13. In fact, the whole menu was revised accompanied with price increases. I sadly opted for the Wednesday burger and beer special, which was common to most people our table of 6. When the bill arrived, the specials weren't applied to everyone's order. A manager stated that the deal only applied to the basic and veggie burgers, and that it said so on the menu. I asked for proof, and he proved himself incorrect. How could he possibly argue something written on the menu? Again I heard those magic words: "Sorry, I'll take care of the drinks", but the revised bills were returned with the originally expected $14 charge. Nothing really "taken care of".
He also insolently said "It's only the basic burger that applies. Just so you know for next time".
Just so you know. There won't be a next time.
You sir, are a true Charlatan. You owe me a meal and MUCH more.
A note to the manager: Don't promise to fix things, or freebies and following through with a lowered expectation. Don't argue with your menu. And regarding the new, pricier menu: No thanks for yanking the value carpet out from under all of us.Listed in: Uno Estrellas
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Review from Eva B.
12/23/2010
I have gone to the Charlatan about half a dozen times. Unfortunately I have to be honest and say that the service has progressively gotten worse with every experience. For example in the beginning or honeymoon phase I didn't care that the service was a bit slow as the food and drinks were fairly priced and the food not too bad. Then we had our first fight. We ordered our food, waited about half hour and somehow received completely wrong meals. Then we waited another 20 minutes and they got it right. The manager came over and said our meals would be on the house. We received our bill and they generously took off one dollar. Wow we were so impressed. The divorce came when we went as usual on a Wednesday where any burger (including lamb, tuna, bacon etc.) and an imported or domestic beer on tap are $14 dollars. Don't get too excited though they changed their policy very recently. Everyone at the table ordered a burger and a beer. When we received our bills only those that ordered a basic burger or vegetarian burger had a bill for $14. The rest had bills for over $20. When I inquired to the manager he said that they changed the deal and we should have noticed on the menu. We looked in the menu and it said Wednesday-burger and a beer for $14. He told us that this time he would take off the charge for the drink. His attitude was actually pretty poor. I was the opposite of impressed as you can tell by the stellar rating.
Lastly I will mention that they have also recently changed the menu which means they increased the prices and mixed it up in the kitchen. Sometimes you shouldn't change a good thing. The tuna burger I ordered had a thick crust of rubbing seasoning that I had to scrape off as it was way too salty and all I could taste was celery seed. Also, it was cold in the middle. Not everything is bad though, the beer is good, but it isn't that hard to mess up beer, or is it? -
Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
1/25/2010
Popped in here alone and got a beer when I arrived a little too early to my buddy's place and had to waste some time.
The place is a lot biger than it looks with a full back area after the front bar.
Felt good drinking a pint at the bar alone- the (many) tv's were alternating sports channels and the hockey game was on. And if the tvs don't distract you then the chatty locals will.
I'd pop in again.
I kinda really like this bar. It's cozy, it has a nice selection of beer on tap and the bartenders are a-ok. The clientele is a range of locals to non-local college youngins
And the prices are about right. I ddint' try any of the food but everything I saw was really nicely done. Like, when the salads came with the burgers they weren't just plopped on a plate like an afterthought- they were really fresh looking and just looked like noce restaurant food in a homey pub. -
Review from Caroline W.
Burnaby, BC
I've loved this place since I first set foot inside. With a vast selection of diverse food with interesting and delicious twists on classic favourites, the Charlatan offers up delights sure to please all your senses.
The full patio is my guilty pleasure for lazy Sunday mornings with their exquisite breakfasts and wooden benches. The upper level is great for watching the game while sipping from the bountiful list of drafts. The middle level offers a slightly more intimate environment but still leaves the option of watching the Canucks play. The lowest level is perfect for a quieter evening or date, with low lighting, cozy booths and a separate bar.
The bathroom, while a bit grungy but clean, is great as the walls are always plastered with posters of up and coming Vancouver nightlife and shows. These walls have come is handy greatly over the past year.
All in all, the Charlatan is a brilliant cross between a pub and a restaurant, with helpful, friendly and honest staff. -
Review from Kelley R.
Vancouver, BC
6/17/2009
This bustling pub is a default for me as its right across the street from my office. I usually end up there once every few weeks for a quick pint after work. They have a nice selection of domestic and import beers on tap and there is always something on special.
The best night to go is Wednesday for the Burger and Beer Special. $14 will buy you a pint of anything you fancy and one of the Charlatans specialty burgers. My favorite is the Tuna burger, though the Lamb runs a close second.
The servers in the dining room are always great, but the bar is the best seat in the house (as long as its not a game day).
Good food, cheap beer...what's not to love you may ask? The atmosphere leaves a bit to be desired. Its almost always loud, even when its empty. Too many TVs and/or loud 'indie' music make the place feel impersonal and the decor is a little on the yuppie chic side for my taste.
A decent quick snack or dinner and the ability to have a frosty beer in front of me within minutes of leaving my desk will continue to make The Charlatan a regular haunt of mine, but I'm afraid it will never make my favorites list. -
Review from Graeme F.
Vancouver, BC
8/22/2009
Charlatan - my weekly stop-off on the way back from Britannia park for ice skating with my friend. When the ice is in - we skate once a week and then stop off here for a few pints of Guinness or a Strongbow. As soon as you walk in - you see the bar - and it's large selection of nice tasty beers - but notice the seating is a bit strange. There isn't much of it up top. You then notice the stairs to the left of the bar - and downstairs is a lot more seating with televisions for hockey, football or cricket. It's generally really busy on hockey nights - but not so much that you can't get a seat. The service is generally quite excellent - but sometimes if you are at the back - it tends to take a bit longer.
A narrow patio rounds out this place if you choose to sit outside - I generally don't like to there - as it's pretty noisy and would rather be inside there. I don't know why - it just feels better inside.
If you go - order the Tuna Bites - they are awesome .
