I’ve been in Vancouver for 5 years now, and when I first moved here, I found myself constantly yearning for a couple of decent pubs. A place where I didn’t have to scream at a friend sitting three feet away to converse with them. (I’m looking at you, Donnelly Group uber-“pubs.”)

The Alibi Room is a diamond in the rough. Decorated in hardwood and brick, you’re offered a handwritten photocopied menu (sealed in laminate). Though they offer an interesting array of food, it’s their rotating beer menu that keeps this place hop-ping. With an emphasis on local, they also offer a nightly cask selection. These guys have gained a lot of momentum with designers and programmers.

If you’re headed down in the next couple weeks, try Phillip’s Chocolate Porter. It makes a quick joke of beers claiming chocolate “notes” or “bouquets.” You can also find these guys on Twitter.