Seemor
Friendlies BarAMust Try
208 E 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 3G2, Canada
· Bar
· 4.8/5 Google (194 reviews)
Small, cozy Mount Pleasant cocktail bar with inventive, custom drinks, warm vibes, and no kitchen—ideal for dates and small groups if you value creativity over food options.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Friendlies Bar exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional cocktail quality and outstanding bartender expertise, delivering inventive, balanced drinks with thoughtful customization. Attentive service and reliable execution across visits cement its standing as a Mount Pleasant gem, while reasonable pricing for craft-level cocktails strengthens its appeal. The intimate neighborhood setting and strong repeat customer loyalty reflect a bar that has earned genuine local devotion.
Restaurant Summary
A snug Mount Pleasant hideaway where the bar team mixes imaginative, balanced cocktails in a room that feels warm and bustling. Guests rave about custom off-menu builds and friendly, engaged bartenders—one regular put it simply: "They asked what I liked and poured a bullseye." Music leans nostalgic without drowning conversation, making it ideal for dates or after-dinner sips. The culinary approach leans contemporary and bartender-driven: flavor-first, seasonal creativity rather than showy theatrics. Expect house-made syrups, deft bitters, and dealer's choice creations tuned to your preferences. Classics are tight, signatures rotate, and mocktails get the same care—this is serious cocktail craft with an unpretentious smile. Families should note there is no kitchen. You can bring food in from nearby spots, but the menu is adult beverages and snacks only. Kid-friendly fare is limited to what you carry in, so this plays best for parents on a date night while the kids are home, not for family dinners.
At a Glance
- Inventive cocktails with custom dealer's choice builds
- Great value for craft-level drinks (~$15)
- Cozy, unpretentious neighborhood vibe with strong music
- Very small space; short waits at peak times
- No kitchen—bring food if hungry
What Sets It Apart
- custom_dealers_choice_program
- house_made_syrups
- bring_your_own_food_policy
What People Love
- Emotionally warm, neighborhood feel
- Bartenders who listen and tailor drinks
- Seasonal menus and rotating themes
- House-made syrups and balanced flavors
- Reasonable pricing for the quality
Points of Concern
- Tiny room can mean a short wait during peak times
- No kitchen—only snacks like chips and peanuts; bring food if needed
- Isolated complaints about staff tone and restroom policy for non-customers
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-38 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with a $15 signature (e.g., Queen of Tarts), then go dealer's choice to match preferences
- If beer or cider is your lane, Parkside Hazy IPA ($11) or Lonetree Cider ($14) are solid picks
- On a budget, pair one cocktail with a $7-8 draught beer for variety
Perfect For
- Date night cocktails after dinner on Main
- Solo perch at the bar with a bespoke drink
- Small-group catchups with a low-key vibe
- Cocktail lovers seeking creative seasonal menus
Location Insights
Area: Lively, creative neighborhood popular with locals for independent shops, cafes, and bars; skewed to young professionals and arts-minded residents.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked corridors on Main Street with active evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Main Street corridor; surrounded by eateries that make it convenient to grab food before or bring-in as allowed by the bar.
Mount PleasantThe dining scene in Mount Pleasant is dynamic, featuring a blend of casual cafes, innovative restaurants, and craft breweries. The social atmosphere is lively yet approachable, with a strong community feel and a focus on locally sourced ingredients and unique culinary experiences.
East Mount PleasantEast Mount Pleasant offers a more subdued dining environment with neighborhood bistros and family-friendly eateries, maintaining a balance between urban convenience and residential calm.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday17:00–00:00
Thursday17:00–00:00
Friday17:00–01:00
Saturday17:00–01:00
Sunday17:00–00:00
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