Vancouver Gastown: Walking Food Tour & Cocktails with Local Tastings

Summary

Gastown’s food scene blends old streets, cocktails and local tales

You’ll taste fresh sourdough and wild boar pierogies in Vancouver’s Gastown, try your hand at mixing cocktails in a century-old bar, and hear stories from locals as you wander cobbled lanes. Expect laughter over dinner and glimpses into real neighborhood life—the kind that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice in Gastown would be the way the bricks felt under my shoes—kind of uneven, like they’ve seen too many winters. Our guide (her name was Sam) waved us over at Maple Tree Square, right by that statue of “Gassy Jack” everyone takes photos with. She had this way of talking about Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood that made it feel alive—she pointed out the layers in the buildings, how you could spot old ironwork if you looked up instead of just at shop windows. The air smelled like rain and coffee, which seems about right for Vancouver.

We stopped at this bakery where the sourdough was still warm—seriously, I burned my fingers a little tearing off a piece but it was worth it. There was borscht too (I tried to pronounce it right; Sam grinned but didn’t correct me). Then we wandered through Blood Alley, which sounds dramatic but is really just a narrow lane with red bricks and these old lamps that flicker even in daylight. Some guy on a bike zipped past us humming something I didn’t recognize. It all felt oddly cinematic.

The main keyword here is Gastown walking gourmet tour—I’d read about it before booking, but being there is different. At Monarca we got to make our own cocktails (mine was heavy on lime because I panicked with the pour), and then there were these wild boar pierogies that tasted both familiar and not at all like anything I’ve had back home. The chef came out for a second—he looked tired but proud—and told us his dad inspired half the menu. That stuck with me more than I thought it would.

By the time we reached Water St. Café for dinner, the sky had gone that weird blue-grey Vancouver does so well. Someone played jazz inside but we sat near the window watching people pass by—some tourists like us, some locals who probably roll their eyes at food tours but still peeked in anyway. Honestly, I left full but also kind of wishing I could do it again just to catch what I missed the first time around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Gastown historic and culinary tour

• Start at Maple Tree Square
• See the Steam Clock
• Explore Blood Alley Square
• Visit central Gastown intersection
• Dine at Water St. Café
• Enjoy creative cocktails at bar
• Eat playful dishes at Monarca
• Taste organic Ukrainian-style cuisine

Top questions

Is food included on the Gastown walking gourmet tour?

Yes, a progressive meal across three iconic Gastown restaurants is included.

Are alcoholic drinks part of this Vancouver food tour?

Yes, three alcohol pairings—craft beer, wine, and cocktails—are included for guests 19+.

Does this Gastown tour include vegetarian options?

Vegetarian and pescatarian options are available if requested when booking.

Is this walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and locations are wheelchair accessible throughout Gastown.

How long does the Gastown walking gourmet tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but covers multiple stops for tastings and drinks over an evening.

Where does the Gastown food tour start?

The tour begins at Maple Tree Square in Vancouver’s historic Gastown district.

Can children join this Vancouver food tour?

Infants and small children can join in strollers or prams; alcoholic pairings are only for those 19+.

What should I wear for this Gastown walking tour?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for rain or shine.

What’s included

Your evening includes guided stops at three standout Gastown restaurants with a progressive dinner featuring local specialties like wild boar pierogies and coastal-inspired dishes. You’ll enjoy three alcohol pairings—craft beer, wine, cocktails—and take part in an interactive mixology experience. There’s also a printed foodie guide with recommendations and discounts to keep exploring after your walk ends.