Vancouver’s bar scene is in the spotlight after four local spots were named among North America’s 50 best, with one Chinatown venue earning the highest ranking in Canada. The Keefer Bar placed seventh overall to claim the title of best bar in the country, while June on Cambie, Prophecy and Botanist also earned spots on the 2026 list, published Wednesday. Judges praised The Keefer Bar—a staple of Vancouver’s Chinatown since February 2010—for its longevity and “unique drink program.” “Beverage director Amber Bruce’s list of ‘prescriptions,’ also known as cocktails, has kept guests coming back on repeat,” the ranking said. The result marks a significant jump from last year when The Keefer Bar ranked 28th on the same list. Bruce is also behind No. 17, June on Cambie, which opened in 2025. Curators described the venue as a “lounge, diner and cocktail den,” featuring soft pink velvet seating, sunset‑inspired lighting and a food‑forward beverage menu. Prophecy, located in the Rosewood Hotel, made its top‑50 debut at No. 32 after appearing on last year’s extended rankings. In 2025, the venue placed 53rd on the list covering spots ranked 51 through 100. This year, judges described the bar as “sleek, sexy and subterranean,” highlighting an inventive cocktail lineup from beverage director Jeff Savage. Botanist rounded out Vancouver’s showing at No. 38, down 12 spots from its 2025 ranking. Located at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the venue was recognized for its use of “the finest ingredients sourced from across the Pacific Northwest.” No Vancouver bars were knocked out of the top‑50 ranking this year. The city also made a strong showing on the 2026 list of North America’s 51‑to‑100 best bars, which was released last month. Four Vancouver venues earned spots on the extended ranking, including three in Chinatown: Bagheera (No. 59), Meo (No. 64) and Laowai (No. 71). Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions ranked 91st. According to 50 Best, the annual rankings are determined by the votes of “more than 300 independent cocktail experts, renowned bartenders, educators and drinks writers” from across the continent.
