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Waldorf Hotel
Categories: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Hotels, Venues & Event Spaces
1489 Hastings Street EVancouver, BC V5L 1S4
Neighbourhood: Grandview-Woodlands
(604) 253-7141
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 5 pm - 2 am
Sun 5 pm - 10 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
39 reviews for Waldorf Hotel
Review Highlights
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"I always like to start with the Tiki Bar." In 14 reviews -
"Najib's Special (Nuba's signature cauliflower dish) is a..." In 1 review -
"Epic Halloween party." In 4 reviews
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39 reviews in English
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Review from Mike M.
Edmonton, AB
5/16/2012
Man, this place definitely deserves more than five stars.
Just to be up front, I popped two hits of mdma right before I left the house.
It was a Monday night and I wanted to get my party on so a friend referred me to the Waldorf for something called Icecream Social. The vibe there was super different. I've been to many dj nights in my time - trust me - from Andy Tokyo to Erlend Oye. What's new about this place is these guys spin vinyl but play the music that my parents listened to. I can just imagine people thrifting for the newest retro find to play at this night. They dug up some amazing oldies but goodies, that one Rolling Stone song is awesome.
The dancefloor was jam packed with pretty girls, a couple not as pretty ones, but their dancing really sparked up their appeal too. Everyone was dancing and looked just as happy as I felt, was everyone else here high too? I'm not sure if there's a dress code but some of the bartenders were wearing those old-fashioned caps which I felt added to the whole retro ambience.
As far as the drinks go, I got two delicious whiskey colas but I set both them down at different times and couldn't find them when I went back for them later. Fair enough. My one complaint was that the bar had a really long line so it took a while of waiting to get my glass of water refilled. That and some dude was kind of a dick when he walked into me getting loose and spilled some of his coconut thing. Everything else was definitely amazing though.
I felt like I had been time-warped back to the 60s. Especially because my wind phone didn't have service in there. I guess the tiki's threw off the signal, haha!
I will definitely be coming back here on mdma not that I'm easing into this whole swing thing! -
Review from Monica M.
5/9/2012
I've attended a couple events held at The Waldorf (not put on by The Waldorf). It seems to be a fantastic venue, with lots of space, good food, and nice staff. The new makeover looks fantastic and I really hope the Waldorf flourishes, despite the no-mans-land location. But perhaps this will serve to invite other businesses into the area.
I would like to return on a regular night and have dinner at Nuba (nom nom nom) or check out the weekend brunch at Desayuno: Brunch Mexicana. -
Review from Elle J.
Vancouver, BC
4/16/2012
I find the Waldorf hot and cold. It's best avoided during their big multi-room parties, like Hallowe'en and New Years, which tend to have overpriced cover, and get so crowded that it takes 10 minutes to move to the next room. The food is only so-so, and the staff are inconsistent - some are cool, some are clueless, and some (especially during those multi-room parties) are horribly rude. I bought a four-day pass to their Hallowe'en "weekend" last year, and the first night I went, the staff at the door snapped "NO IN-OUTS ALLOWED" when I dared to open the front door for a second. Um, yeah, it's a four-day pass, so unless you're giving me a free hotel room for the weekend, I'm gonna come and go as I please.
On the other hand, the Waldorf is wonderfully supportive of the arts in Vancouver, which is something of a rarity in this culture-phobic city. They host some pretty good dance parties in their downstairs rooms, they screen art house movies occasionally, and one of their hotel rooms has been converted into a cool art gallery space. When the Waldorf is great, it's really great. I just wish it were more consistent. -
Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
3/21/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I find it odd that I haven't written a review for the Waldorf yet. Firsts for everything I suppose.
I've been to the Waldorf a number of times since it reopened and I always enjoy myself. I haven't had a bad time per say, I just haven't been wooed by it.
The Tiki lounge, well the Tiki lounge always looks much nicer than it is. I was in there last night for an event and it just felt kinda sad. I guess nothing lasts for ever.
Nuba is nice, but Nuba is Nuba, it's not disappointing so that's good.
The basement has two large rooms which are great for dancing in, they feel like you're in the basement of a building.
The service is usually pretty good and the last couple of times I've gone there have been great drink specials ($4 beer). I can appreciate that for sure. -
Review from Rebecca S.
10/6/2011
I went to the Waldorf a few Fridays ago and the highlights included:
1) Seapony, with special guest Rose Melberg!! Squee!!
2) Feminist bathroom hour - aka, 200 sq ft bathroom with five girls telling another girl she's worth more than that playa out thurr.
3) Drinkin' cider like a local.
4) The huuuuge couch along the wall, which was perfect for my hungover, tired state who just wanted maintenance cider + music.
5) Some girl yoga dancing all the way to the front and kissing all the guys aside, and also punching walls.
6) Free parking out back!
I liked how there were different floors and rooms with different events going on all at the same time - I don't think I've seen that in Seattle. I would go back, but next time I want one of those rum coconuts!Listed in: Vancouver, BC
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Review from Sarah D.
For a place where my mom used to hang out when she was young, the Waldorf is pretty darn rad. I hadn't been to the Waldorf in a few years, so when I visited on Saturday I was thrilled about just how, well, "cool" it had become. On Fridays and Saturdays the cover is $10, but it gains you entrance into not one but THREE (or more) events going on in the hotel. There's something totally different going on in every room, so if you're coming with friends there's bound to be something they'll all enjoy.
I would go so far as to say the Waldorf is THE best venue in the city. Some reasons this is true:
-the bouncers aren't douchebags, and they don't make you wait when there's room available inside
-there's always something interesting going on. My friend summed it up best when she said "Where do they get all their ideas from?" Sad clowns handing out sour kids = awesome (true story)
-the drinks in the tiki bar, though pricey, are STRONG. Prepare to be knocked on your ass after a couple.
-FREE 80's night on Thursdays
-hilarious staff. Where else can you go where staff members will give patrons a hug?
-it's walking distance from my house. For those who need to commute, there are bus stops right outside the door
-it has an awesome retro-Vegas vibe
-the patrons are generally pretty rad. Is it weird to want to be friends with the strangers dancing beside you?
-the name "Waldorf" makes me think of Wharf from Star Trek - The Next Generation (I just outed myself as a nerd, didn't I?)
If you want to go somewhere totally unique, with random and hilarious events going on, hit up the Waldorf. Oh yeah, you can even have your hangover brunch here the next day too. -
Review from Carlos M.
Coquitlam, BC
2/12/2012
Pretty cool place. It has a pretty diggable vibe. It's got good drinks and tons of vintage music that would be better if it weren't too loud. Suit up, grab yourself a cigarette and you'll feel as if you were transported into an episode of Mad Men. Just make sure you get there fast because it fills up like a madhouse.
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Review from Joel B.
Toronto, ON
10/28/2011
I went to the Open Forums Festival here about 2 months ago. It was a great event. Had been here a couple times but never when the whole venue was open and had about 4 rooms going simultaneously. It was really busy but i never really felt to squished in anywhere. They had places to sit everywhere. The music was awesome and i found the staff to be nice also.
Will totally go back here again. -
Review from Ai S.
This review is for the hotel, because guess what, this is a hotel! But I guess everyone wants to go to the party and not actually spend the night.
Anyhow, I chose to book a night here after reading about it in a Bon Appetit article (http://www.bonappetit....). I'm not sure if any of the hipsters who frequent the Waldorf for their nightlife ever read Bon Appetit, but there might be a foodie or two in the mix, as the hotel restaurant was quite busy.
So, this place is like one-stop shopping for the party enthusiast. (Maybe it's a Walmart spinoff. Get it? Wal-dorf. Wal-mart. Eh? Eh? Never mind.)
There are 2 restaurants and a Tiki-themed bar, as well as a music space downstairs. The hotel rooms are clean and simple, with a fun retro vibe. Bathrooms are tiled pink and go with that retro vibe. Bed was comfy, I was in a standard queen at the end of the hall. You can hear the crowds outside and a bit of the music, but it was not overly loud. Unfortunately, I was awakened at 5 in the morning to the incredibly loud garbage truck. That was far worse than the music and crowds. Plus my room was missing the bottled water and the mixed tape, plus the old stereo was not working, and I was told it was not just for show. The girl up front was sweet but not very helpful at all.
If you're coming in sort of late, this hotel is a good spot, since you can check in, grab a drink and not worry about getting around anywhere. The area itself seems a bit sketchy at night, but the parking lot is well lit. The price is affordable, would not recommend at all for families, but instead for a group of friends or the solo traveler. -
Review from Faye S.
Vancouver, BC
10/17/2011
For my 23rd birthday I took me and my friends to the Waldorf Hotel nightclub. I had been in touch with events coordinator, Kasha, to organize my guest list before hand. Although on arrival the door man was extremely rude with a terrible attitude, me and my friends got into the venue right away as promised.
I loved it in there! Multiple rooms with various themes meant the night could never get boring. We stayed until the bitter end, dancing the night away.
I had a blast! -
Review from Brandon M.
8/27/2011
My friends and I decided to hold a combined stag and stagette party at The Waldorf and we couldn't have been happier with our choice of venue! The staff was extremely helpful and accommodating, even helping us work through a couple of last minute changes to the night. With no buy-out or rental fees for a group of 25 people it was also a fantastic deal!
One of the best parts about the venue is all the different spaces you can party in. Dinner at Nuba is really amazing and the set menu they provided for us was excellent and more than enough food for everyone. We were then able to use one of their rooms downstairs for a private video showing, and then move up to the Tiki bar for the rest of the party. Everyone in our group had a blast and I'd highly recommend the venue to anyone planning a big night out with a bunch of friends, really for any occasion. -
Review from Wade L.
Vancouver, BC
1/5/2012
Tiki lounge was super fun and different from the typical places in Vancouver. I mean downtown Vancouver. Not pretentious.
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Review from Steven S.
3/5/2011 ROTD 5/6/2012
The other night my friends held a catered event at the Waldorf. From the moment they were booking the event, to the time we all arrived, ate, danced, drank and celebrated the staff, food, venue were amazing. First the venue is fantastic, wonderfully preserved 60's Vegas kitsch. They provided amazing support for the musicians who were coming to play, and the A/V support went above and beyond the call of duty. One staff member even drove home to get the part we needed to get it all going.
The Food was fabulous, if you do not know Nuba does the catering at the Waldorf and the food they provided was as spectacular as their resto in gastown. You know the food was great because almost 150 people from all ages dove on it and talked about it all night.
You can say that many places offer good food and a room for the event, but the Staff at the Waldorf is it's real standout. They worked hard to make sure the event was a success, they were friendly, and helpful all night.
If you are looking to host any event or party, give this gem a serious look. They will treat you great and will I am sure make it an event that people will talk about for a long time. -
Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
2/13/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Oh no. Oh no no no no.
Last night the Boy and I donned our prettiest garb and headed to the Waldorf for a night of Valentine's Day dining and drinking. The Leeteg Room, with its interesting Spanish menu, beckoned.
I wish it had kept quiet.
Despite some great service and wonderful decor (the only reason we're giving a star at all) the food was awful. It pains me to write that, as I had such high hopes!
Everything was huge and stodgy, thick and creamy. Patatas Bravas cooked in a mussel stock started us off, and for tapas the portion was HUGE. Strangely huge. I felt nearly full after eating them! We also shared some mushroom croquettes - again, just a big mouthfulla cream with little flavour to cut it.
Then came the fish. Vaguely described, I ordered "Red Snapper with Clams in a parsley and garlic sauce." I love these things! Yay!
:C
The fish and clams came served in a bowl, covered - ABSOLUTELY SMOTHERED - with a translucent, pearly, semen-like yellow sauce. The sauce lacked any flavour at all, and seemed to have been thickened with corn starch. The fact that it was served in a bowl meant that the sauce had nowhere to go and kind of congealed. So bad. Boyfriend's was the same - Black Cod also swimming in an equally flavourless sauce. Boyfriend compared it to Southern white cream gravy.
Very little garlic, very little chili, none of the wonderful Spanish flavours I became accustomed to in my month in Spain. I have never experienced a thick, heavy mess like what I was served last night in any Spanish restaurant.
Based on the fact that the Leeteg Room is proposing to change their menu and theme bi-annually, I feel like the ambitious head chefs created a high concept menu that they then left to the kitchen staff to execute. This was clearly food prepared by people who did not understand this food.
The server, seeing our unfinished plates, deducted the mains from our bill, but even this highly appreciated gesture couldn't save the evening. The table next to us ALSO sent their food back as well.
Boyfriend has stated that this was the most unsexy food he has ever eaten, and he had to take a Gravol last night. He is still fighting nausea in bed beside me. Happy V-day to ME.
The price point, which is high-ish - is misleading. This is not a dining experience on par with Chambar, La Brasserie or even ReFuel - my money would have been much better spent there.
And finally, to add insult to injury - the "Tiki" Bar next door has only FOUR cocktails on their menu! FOUR! A proper tiki bar has a phonebook of drinks, things served in coconuts and pineapples and from between the breasts of young Polynesian women! This bar has 2 Tequila drinks, a Caesar and the only rum cocktail is a Mojito. A Mojito. From Cuba. Wrong Tropical, guys. We had the Paloma and it tasted like baking soda. I took 3 sips and we left.
I want to love you, Waldorf! I grew up three blocks away, so I feel like you're a part of my family - but I may have to cut you out of my will.Listed in: Jessica's Eateries to Avoid!
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Review from Peter S.
4/25/2011 2 Check-ins Here
There is nothing like the Waldorf in BC!
If there is, can someone please tell me about it.
I've had awesome food every time I've been, and there is always something totally random happening there.
Weird bed sheet art exhibit in a hotel room. Crazy live show in the basement. Epic Halloween party...
A truly unique Vancouver joint.
Keep it up Waldorf. -
Review from Reena M.
2/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Amazing Mexican desayuno (brunch) on the weekends!! They're quite authentic Mexican flavours. I even peeked into the kitchen and verified that mostly Mexicans were working back there.
I had the barbacoa, which is 12-hour braised lamb with tortillas and pico de gallo. I also added eggs and an avocado. Delicious!! I was stuffed by the end of it.
We also got a tour of the rest of the venue, which was quite impressive. I shall be back for a soiree in the Tiki Lounge or Cabaret room! -
Review from Rachel P.
Vancouver, BC
11/15/2010 ROTD 12/11/2010
We visited the Waldorf the night before their official Halloween Grand Opening to check out the Black Wizard show (note: best band in Vancouver right now!) and I had a rip-roaring good time.
Things I loved:
* Huge space with lots of different areas to hang in like the band room and the other down stairs room opposite the coat-check with the dance floor, the upstairs bar/tiki lounge....lots of places to go on little missions to!
* Outside smoking area! I don't smoke but I do like to hang around outside bars and shoot the shit without leaving the premises.
* Happy, friendly staff!
* Free Food! They brought out a crazy amount of free Mexican-inspired nibbles so that we could try the menu. Free snacks! I heart you Waldorf!!
I also visited The Waldorf this weekend for brunch with a girlfriend and to check out their vintage clothing sale, The Chosen Ones. Great selection of clothing from about 10 vendors, good prices and well displayed. They are having this monthly so check it out!
Brunch was nice. Mimosas and espresso were both a thumbs up. I had "The Waldorf", which was poached eggs, fresh avocado/tomato, and a potato galette with crispy proscuitto/ham. All was delicious, except the galette was kind of grey and a weird texture and flavor (it was kind of like sticky rice or something and tasted strange) but we got some fries with homemade aioli instead and our belly's were happy. It was only their second brunch since opening, so I can't be too hard on these guys!
Overall - YES. Go there. Check it out. Give them some love. -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
10/31/2010 4 Check-ins Here
[Insert swirling time travel music] and then a piece from the Rocky Horror Picture Show....
The new space is astounding,
Like when you jump to the left (and there's a tiki bar in full swing)
Or then take a step to the right (and a cafe with kick ass food is being served)
You march your knees downstairs (and there's a cabaret)
But it's the DJ lounge, with another bar that really drives you insane,
Yeah, Let's do the Time Warp again!
"It's so dreamy, oh fantasy free me
So you can't see me, no not at all (Halloween Party after all)
In another dimension, with voyeuristic intention
Well-secluded, I see all
With a bit of a mind flip
You're there in the time slip
And nothing can ever be the same
You're spaced out on sensation, like you're under sedation
Let's do the Time Warp again!"
Welcome back Waldorf!! You're my new favourite multi-space: a hair salon (Barbarella), 3 bars, 2 restaurants - serving Spanish inspired eats, a cabaret space with live music, and of course the tiki bar. The time and care that the new staff at Waldorf took to restoring the space has left me awestruck. The speakers cranking tunes are revamped originals; the bamboo and artwork are throwbacks from generations past, even the images projected in the DJ lounge (is there a real name for space?) reflect the Waldorf's affection and attention for the history of it all.
Sitting in the cafe, listening to tunes from the 60s, at last night's Halloween grand opening I wondered if my grandparents sipped on Pina Coladas or just a scotch on the rocks from the tiki bar back in the day. -
Review from Hootie J.
Vancouver, BC
2/25/2011
This review is for the Tiki Bar only.
I like what they have done with the Waldorf, Some gentrification in this Hood is good.
The Tiki bar on the other hand.... Well lets just say that the atmosphere is painted on the walls, very very Polynesian but that is where it stops. Very limited food menu ( All from the Lebanese restaurant next door, so if you like Tiki Lebanese )
This space has soooo much potential, but not one Lava drink, coconut or Mai Tai to be found.
While we were there several groups that showed up while we were there they appeared to be looking for that "Trader Vic's" Nostalgia and although the decor lived up to it, the service, food and beverage selection fell way short.
Beers: Mexican, & Jamaican ( no draft beers even though they are available at the Restaurant beside the bar???)
Cocktails, predominately Mexican (lots of tequila) but also featured the proverbial Canadian Caesar
Food : Lebanese and Vegan, tasty but not anywhere close to Polynesia
So go for the Lebanese food (good), the Polynesian decor (great) but that Tiki Bar nostalgia ... Bad
PS: Don't expect any sports,( No Tv's) and if you can't read in the dark forget about the menu (artificial starlight but menu is not optimized for the ultra low light) -
Review from Andrea B.
3/28/2011
Nighttime review:
SENSORY OVERLOADDD!!!
Disco balls.
Loud music.
Unexplainable decorations.
Carpeted floors.
Sinky chairs.
Well sir, you had me at DISCO BALLS.
ROOMS
The Waldorf has rooms. No, I'm not talking about the hotel rooms, but rooms with different themed music; intimate rooms. Since it's set in a hotel, I felt like I was at a conference (or someone's house) so it's eclectically homey. Definitely unlike other clubs/venues in Vancouver.
SOUND
I came on a Saturday night for some live band action. As a live band venue, it's great for indie. Space is small. Sound a tad too loud but less muffled than other places I've been to - I can actually hear the lyrics!
CROWD
It's not super crowded. It's one of those places people go to if there's a special event or it's 12:05am and you happen to find yourself strolling the streets of Hastings and think to yourself "wow, i need to dance asap". As the night wears on, the place quickly gets emptier and emptier...to a point where you could hug every person in the room in 3 minutes or less. Or lightly high five them. This could also be because the Waldorf is not easily transitable and the carriage turns into a pumpkin after midnight.
DRINK
It appears most people mingle around the carpeted bar area. Thus, it gets kinda crowded and difficult to quench one's thirst. So drink early or wait often. OR drink early AND wait often.
Waldorf is off the transit path but it's worth a looksee for those who like catching local bands or always dreamed of entering a room and be royally confused....in a good way. -
Review from Cyndi H.
Vancouver, BC
Whoa, beneath a starry painted sky the blue tiki room enchants, with an impressive all-vinyl DJ and salubrious Nuba eats.
Najib's Special (Nuba's signature cauliflower dish) is a favourite (surprise, surprise) but if you like Lebanese food, their other items will treat you well. I warn you though, their cocktails are MIGHTY strong. If you're a fan of girly drinks, these may be too intense for you, but you can appreciate that the staff are generous with their liquor at least!
If you're lucky, you'll see an all ages crowd at around 9pm. It's a real highlight to see older couples taking the dance floor to bust a move to old classics. Totally rad. I love seeing older folks having a good timeListed in: East Side wonders!, Live Entertainment, Hipster Hangouts, Dance O'clock!
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Review from Vincci L.
Back for the food and I love it!!
We came here for the vintage clothing sale, The Chosen Ones, and decided to get some food in their cafe. They were only offering their bar menu until 5pm.
The cafe has these retro style chairs upholsters in pretty pastel colors. A large open space. Menu has a Spanish, Latin American influence.
Everything looked good on the menu. We got the Pan Tomaca :Grilled garlic and tomato bread with Serrano ham and Manchego cheese. Crunchy thin slices of bread, with a drizzle of olive oil, topped with chopped tomatoes, delicious ham, and shavings of the cheese. Trust me, this was soo good.
2nd dish: The Queso Fundido -melted Oaxaca cheese with chorizo, poblano pepper and corn tortillas. 4 tortillas, with a dish of baked cheese, topped with the chorizo and pepper. The sauces were the highlight of the dish, and of course, anything cheese goes!
Took a look at their brunch/ lunch/ dinner menu. There's a tequila drink in their brunch menu!
Smoked sable fish quesadilla, I'm coming for you next!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/2/2010
Mixing the old and new, this place has a certain unique atmosphere that I really like.
We came here… Read more »
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Review from Emily S.
Vancouver, BC
1/4/2011
Malloreigh M is right... they've changed. And methinks not for the better. I was here in November and loved loved loved the menu, the space, the atmosphere... now I'm not loving it anymore.
Let's start with the new menu. What was wrong with the old one? Bring it back. This half-venture towards yet another Nuba Cafe in this space is totally wrong. Pushing Mediterranean in a tiki time warp is just not going to cut it. Please bring back the old menu with the inspiring dishes that made me want to eat here.
Next... the food itself. Now, I love Nuba, but the food here is seriously lacking. Dry and lacking flavor, and not to mention the undercooked chicken. If I want some Nuba in my life, I will stick to the Hastings & Cambie location, where I'm sure they cook everything right.
Lastly.. the music. It could have been just this day, but I remember it being hip, happening in November. Now it's verging on creepy.
I'd love for the Waldorf to get it together and make me want to go back, but for now I'm a bit disappointed in the place. -
Review from Rick C.
Updated - 3/31/2011 12 photos
I always like to start with the Tiki Bar. It's almost too hip and trendy for its own good. It's such a cool place to sit back and enjoy a cocktail.
I had to grab another fresh coconut and rum drink. It's a struggle to describe how tasty the coconut milk is with your choice of rum or tequila.
I had a blast hopping from room to room, mingling about and soaking in the retro classic yet timeless vibe of the hotel.
The sangrias were dynamite. I absolutely adore the Waldorf Hotel and its new incarnation. It's definitely worth the trek out deep into East Van on Hastings Street.
Because of the cool vibe, offbeat locale, and blast from the past feel, the Waldorf attracts a special kind of hipster. These ones are particularly trendy and beyond irony. The Leeteg Room is a great spacious lounge-type dining room providing an excellent atmosphere.
The food was so delicious. The Spanish eats were delightful and tasty with a special portion of sauces and cheeses. The Waldorf is a great, cultural and entertainment hub in strong contrast to the hub downtown. The great food only add to its appeal and unique cultural atmosphere.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/31/2010
My friends and I arrived early to the Waldorf for their Grand Opening XO Halloween Party, because we… Read more »
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Review from Jeff M.
Vancouver, BC
4/17/2011
been here for live music. It's not bad, most bands that play here are below the radar, so it doesn't really get that crowded, which is nice. sound is decent enough. lighting sucks.
also been to the tiki bar portion. drinks are ok and not too expensive. wasn't really digging the vibe though. seemed pretentious. i dunno. but it might have just been the night i was there. -
Review from Gale L.
Vancouver, BC
2/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Manic eclectic!
The bar serves Lebanese snacks only, the second area serves both the full Lebanese and Spanish menus and the third area (in common with the second) serves only the Spanish menu. The same kitchen services all three.
We enjoyed the Lebanese snacks paired with the Dutch, Mexican and German beer offered in the Tiki Bar.
The food was great, the beer too, and the service was friendly, patient and efficient.
The Waldorf needs to know it's self - not a pineapple or coconut in Tiki? -
Review from Suiki S.
Vancouver, BC
1/13/2011 1 photo
Delightful Hummus at the Retro Chic Waldorf
The Waldorf is a creative hub in the heart of East Vancouver where contemporary art, music, food and culture convene under one roof. Marrying Nuba as their Lobby Cafe is match made in Heaven.
Café Nuba, now with 4 locations in the lower mainland, is serving fresh and wholesome Lebanese Food while making people happy, respecting the environment and supporting the community
Chicken Tawook--$12
Grilled mount lehman chicken breast marinated in paprika, thyme, lemon and garlic confit. Served with taboulleh, hummus, salad, hot sauce, pita & choice of organic brown rice or roasted potatoes. all served with tahini. -
Review from Simon R.
BC
11/28/2008 1 photo
Even though the bar is located on East Hastings and close to Commercial Drive, this is the kind of place you picture yourself going to in the suburbs. It's a large amazing space, with a huge stage, pool table and even a cigarette machine at the back. The walls are covered with posters of rock/movie stars, and the dim lighting is aided by a few neon lit beer advertisements.
Somehow host to an eclectic mix of cover bands, hip hop artists, reggae DUB DJs and punk rockers, the Waldorf still doesn't get a lot of respect, and is not the preferred drinking establishment of record producers. It's classic though, and great for bands and their friends to take over and let loose.
The huge picture of the palm tree attached to the front of the building is a reference to the tiki room, a smaller space located to the left after entering the front doors. It's more for birthday parties, but there is a bar and a relaxed Caribbean theme. Perfect for bands with smaller entourages. -
Review from Colene C.
7/3/2011
I've been here a few times and each time I fall more in love. Very specifically in love with the Tiki Bar and the Mexican brunch. Both such unique and fun experiences it makes me feel like I'm not in Vancouver. Everything is just right: great flavors & drinks and a great atmosphere. I love how they have different events each night like Ice Cream Socials on Monday (music from the 50's and 60's). If you're looking for something a bit different, this is the place.
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Review from Kat S.
6/14/2011
Dinner and drinks at the Leeteg room followed by more drinks in the Tiki bar.
For a friend's birthday we had a pretty large group. The service was quite excellent from our one waitress, however the auto-gratuity was 18%. I totally understand auto grat for a large group, such as ours, but that's if the bill is all as one. The lovely waitress separated our bills anyhow, so I'm not sure why restaurants think the auto grat is necessary in this case. Despite that, 18% is a little steep. If service is great, they get roughly 20%, but don't assume the service will be as such. 15% is a more reasonable amount for an auto gratuity, and if I want to leave more than that, I will. In this case, I thought she did a great job, so I left a little more, but I was still not pleased with the establishment's assumptions.
On to the food...
Drinks in the Leeteg room were good, and prices not bad. Food was okay on average. I had the bean gazpacho, which was actually excellent. I really enjoyed that, with it's garlic taste and creamy texture. But the grilled veg on crispy bread was not as stellar. The crispy bread failed to be crispy by the time it arrived since the veggies were quite moist. The flavour was nice, but nothing amazing. The prices for food are definitely not cheap. I would have liked to have eaten more, but I wasn't about to pay more.
Drinks in the Tiki Bar were interesting...
Super nice bartender, so plus point there. However my bourbon sour was rather watery tasting, so minus points for that. And other than some of the decor there really isn't anything Polynesian about the place. It's kind of an odd space. I sat with some friends to have my drink and after I got up to leave a waitress accosted me and said I needed to pay for my two drinks before I left. I told her I had ordered at the bar, and she basically told me I was lying and was being very rude. When she named the drink I had to point out my friend who indeed did order those. She just said, "oh, well you two look the same from the front." Nope, other than being white with dark hair. Her hair being exceptionally curly and short, and mine long and straightish. I understand being concerned that a patron may being trying to leave without paying, but she was very abrasive and rude about it, and didn't even offer an apology. So minus points for her attitude. -
Review from Christine R.
New Westminster, BC
11/9/2008 3 photos
I was recently lucky enough to attend an event held in the fabulous Tiki Room in the Waldorf Hotel. This has got to be the best room in the city to throw a swank party. They've got a restored ceiling painted blue and studded with twinkly lights, vintage Hawaiian paintings, giant fake palm trees, and the piece de resistance, the coolest semicircular tiki bar. Behind the stage (or DJ booth if that's how it's set up) there's a fake waterfall mirage.
The bathroom doors are hidden in the walls, and are not so swank, but they do the job.
The only thing that could make this place better was if they carried the retro/Hawaii theme right into the drinks with some paper umbrellas or some fruit on those little plastic swords of yore. I'm picturing maraschino cherries, cubes of pineapple... Better yet, a pretty coconut for a glass. And crazy straws! C'mon, presentation!
They did make a decent mai tai, and then an eyecatching Blue Hawaiian. Unfortunately, they seemed to forget the alcohol. If I, a pretty cheap date, can still feel sober after four drinks, then the barkeep needs to tip the bottle a couple seconds longer.Listed in: Ladytime
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Review from James H.
Vancouver, BC
11/9/2010
The TIKI Bar..
An oasis in an urban Eastside concrete Jungle
Lets start with the adjacent free parking lot - not that we take our cars any more ..a quck jump onto the #20 bus from Broadway skytrain landed me at the front door .
An imposing interior / exterior looks like something from a Vegas Rat Pack movie
A far cry from its old beer parlour sports lounge image
steel.. vinyl... and palm trees !
Started with a dark in house ale brew - deliciuos
A couple of starters from the dinner appy menu...
Warm Spicy Peanuts and Spanish Olives
I should have had a martini with that !
Spicy and Crispy Pork RibsYucatán style with pickled red onions
Very juicy and tender.. washed down with a winter ale ..
A fun place to do some lounge lizarding people watching -
Review from Malloreigh M.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 12/19/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Whoa, okay, quick update - experienced some pretty hostile service the other night at the tiki lounge, and apparently the previous restaurant menu, which was inspiring and interesting, has been either temporarily or permanently nixed in favour of the Nuba menu.
Listed in: Just One Drink, Business Time
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/17/2010
What's not to love about The Waldorf? My girlfriend is so into this place - she will take any excuse… Read more »
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Review from Shore M.
Vancouver, BC
2/26/2011
Weird to be sure... Hadn't been since the 70s. Same sky on the ceiling possibly. Tiki Bar was in name only. They had NO DRAUGHT beer. Reason was the premises were original ie; old, and they didn't bother to change things apparently. Blue Buck by Philips was good. Must buy at beer store. But the menu was Lebanese of all things!! And the piped in music was Brasilian or summat. Good mix of appetizers. No mains offered. Gotta go next door for that. Was a Thursday and only a few other patrons on hand a couple of hours in (opens at 1800)... But we had to leave just prior to the tunes from 'Kevin', a delightful young man who knows his vinyl and 70s and 80s music, local and otherwise. Must go back to hear what he offers up....
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Review from Jack D.
Vancouver, BC
5/29/2011
Expect to lose your hearing with the below average, way too loud, sound system.
Bring earplugs, or avoid altogther. -
Review from Andrea E.
4/26/2011
On a recent visit to Vancouver, we happened upon The Waldorf and saw a performance of the play Tape in a hotel room. That was a unique enough experience, but the whole venue is different and cool. It's a tiki bar, restaurant, night club, hotel, boutique, art and performance space rolled into one. I've never seen anything quite like it. Definitely a must do when in Vancouver.
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Review from shain r.
Vancouver, BC
10/3/2008 1 photo
I cant say that this is on the top of my current list of places to go regularly in vancouver but it definitely is on my list of places you must experience before you die. I was introduced to the Waldorf years ago. Driving by you may think.. meh.. another sorta out dated run down hotel, with an unassuming sign and a say nothing bar in the lobby. However the real gem is located in the basement. A PERFECTLY IN TACK TEAKY LOUNGE!! (see picture above)..I know! Complete with black velvet paintings, a bamboo bar, and mood lighting as far as the eye can see! They throw an awesome new years eve party and I highly suggest you try it at least once. good music, good fun, and good decor!
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Review from Stephanie C.
New Westminster, BC
10/20/2011
We had our wedding reception for 100 people in the Nuba/Leetag restaurant a few weeks ago. It was a classy, funky and amazing party, it turned out exactly as I hoped and with very little work on my part. The food from Nuba was fantastic, everyone raved about how good the food was. Great service, they had tons servers on hand and were all upbeat and positive. Loved the music from the in-house DeeJay El Garzita. Kati the event coordinator was such a pleasure to deal with. It truly was stress free from start to finish and I had about 20 of my guests tell me it was the best party they had ever been to.
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Review from A. B.
11/29/2010
I don't remember the day of the week I went, but had a great time. This place is huge; three different rooms. The place reminded me of a vintage Las Vegas hotel.
