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Cocktails & Cigars: Drinks, Dinner, and a Fine Cigar at Ballyhoo Public House

The Ballyhoo Public House is more than just a neighbourhood watering hole; it is a living piece of Vancouver’s history, blending vintage-modern charm with a bold, boisterous atmosphere. Located at the corner of Burrard and Smithe in the Theatre District, this rejuvenated gem, once home to the Winking Judge pub, invites guests to step into its storied past while enjoying a modern, elevated experience.

An evening at Ballyhoo Public House seamlessly combines thoughtfully crafted drinks and a selection of draft beers, delectable pub-style dining, and the refined enjoyment of a fine cigar. This is a place where history and modernity converge, creating an atmosphere both welcoming and distinguished.

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Chilled Sips to Start

Ballyhoo’s beverage menu is as versatile as its crowd, offering options for both those seeking a buzz and those keeping it zero-proof. For our visit, we enjoyed a refreshing Strongbow Cider and a crisp Parallel 49 Craft Lager, each served perfectly chilled.

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Continuing Dry January a little longer? No problem. Ballyhoo’s zero-proof options are as inventive as their spirited counterparts. Highlights include the Invisible Disco, a comforting mix of peppermint tea, lemon, raspberry, and basil, and the Green Juice, a zesty blend of fennel tea, cucumber, green apple, lemon, ginger, and celery. For those missing their stouts, the alcohol-free Guinness 0.0 and Heineken 0.0 are excellent choices.

Insider tip: Visit on a Wednesday for special features, or swing by during Happy Hour (Monday to Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) to enjoy signature cocktails like the Spicy Margarita Spritz or the Strawberry Coconut Paloma Fizz.

A Plant-Based Feast

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Ballyhoo’s food menu offers modern takes on pub classics, with plant-based options that shine. Each dish was flavourful, thoughtfully prepared, and perfect for sharing.

Rosemary Fries: Perfectly crisp and herbaceous, a comforting start to the meal
Grilled Broccolini: Served with a cashew cheese base, lemon, and chilis, this dish balanced smoky, zesty, and creamy flavours
Funghi Pizza: Featuring a thin, crispy gluten-free crust, cashew cheese, fresh arugula, and earthy mushrooms, this was a standout
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with arugula, tangy dressing, and topped with pickled onion

The Finishing Touch: A Refined Cigar Experience

No evening at Ballyhoo would be complete without a nod to timeless indulgence. Following our dinner, we stepped outside to enjoy a Romeo y Julieta No. 2, a quintessential Cuban cigar that has earned its place in the pantheon of fine tobacco.

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The Romeo y Julieta No. 2 is a Corona vitola, known for its slender ring gauge and elegant construction. Its blend of aromatic Vuelta Abajo leaves delivers a medium-bodied profile that appeals to both seasoned aficionados and those new to cigars. From the first draw, notes of cedar and toasted nuts emerged, underscored by subtle hints of leather and a whisper of floral sweetness. The even burn and smooth draw made it a pleasure from start to finish.

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This cigar’s history adds to its allure. Named after Shakespeare’s tragic lovers, the brand dates back to 1875 and rose to prominence under Don “Pepin” Fernandez, who popularized the use of decorative cigar bands. Winston Churchill himself was a devoted fan, and his name graces one of the brand’s most iconic sizes. Smoking a Romeo y Julieta No. 2 is not merely an act of enjoyment; it is an invitation to partake in a tradition steeped in artistry and refinement.

For those seeking to complement their cigar with a beverage, Ballyhoo’s considerate cocktail program and selection of local craft beers offer endless possibilities. A smoky Mezcal Negroni or a classic Old Fashioned would pair beautifully, enhancing the cigar’s complex flavour profile.

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An Invitation to Ballyhoo

The Ballyhoo Public House is a place where history meets modern comfort, where drinks and dining create connections, and where cigars offer a moment to pause and reflect. Whether you are dropping by for Happy Hour, meeting friends for dinner, or seeking a new favourite spot to unwind, Ballyhoo welcomes you.

Come for the drinks, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with new friends and memories. Ballyhoo is proof that the past and present can harmonize in the most delightful of ways.

Author Profile

Vlad Xanthopoulos: Vlad Xanthopoulos is the Vices Ambassador at Folio.YVR, host of Cocktails & Cigars, and contributor. A connoisseur of fine cigars and craft cocktails, Vlad explores the art, culture, and stories behind these indulgences. His passion for tradition and refined living elevate Vancouver Vices for Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine.