Foodies and Beer Lovers Rejoice at The Alibi Room, Vancouver

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Posted by : foodnetworkcanada, Fri, Jul 18 2008

I've always wanted to find a neighbourhood place. Somewhere that just feels right; comfortable, unpretentious, friendly and close by. For me, I think I've found that place at The Alibi Room; it's only five blocks from my home.

The Alibi Room is set in a huge heritage building close to the rail yards and shipping ports in Gastown. The décor is minimal with large sweeping windows that overlook the old brick buildings on Alexander Street. If you're lucky, you'll also see passing rail cars out the back, which add to the sense of history and scope of the place.

I've eaten a few different meals at the Alibi and I have to admit the food can be a bit inconsistent but when it's good, it's really good. While I probably won't order the $14 organic beef burger with onion confit again (too much salt and spice in the meat instead of letting the pure and true beefy goodness shine), I can't complain about the skinny yam fries with the chipotle mayo ($6). Crispy on the outside and sweetly soft on the inside; they are the epitome of French fry perfection. I also am very happy to munch away on the roasted beet-candied hazelnuts-goat cheese salad with arugula ($12) loaded with creamy goat cheese and a tangy vinaigrette. My friends were very happy with their roasted portabello goat cheese sandwiches with radicchio and a caper aioli ($12, pictured above) and another raved about his jerk-spiced vegetable stew with house made corn bread ($15). Even the lone vegan at the table was pleased with her order of vegetable and tofu dumplings with black vinegar and soy dipping sauce.

However, the real reason I come to The Alibi Room isn't for the hip décor or the tasty chow. For me, it's because of the beer. Finally, Vancouver has a place that takes beer seriously. The new co-owner of the place, Nigel Springthorpe, is really excited about beer and it shows. Currently, there are 19 different brews on tap; beers that you just can't find anywhere else in this city and the beer menu is always changing.

There's the popular Back Hand of God Oatmeal Stout from Crannog Ales (Sorrento, BC), a hoppy bitter ESB and a Red Ale from Central City Brewing, beers from two of Victoria, BC's most popular breweries Swan's and Spinnaker's, a deliciously hoppy IPA from Longwood (Nanaimo, BC) and a guest tap from Portland, OR's Rogue Brewing featuring their Dead Guy Ale. Not sure if you want a whole pint? No worries, the Alibi offers a sampler of various brews as part of their "frat bat," so give that lemon ale or surly blonde a try. Want a bottle instead? The beer list is even longer and more diverse with lots of interesting selections, including many popular Belgium beers.

The Alibi is a place where you can come with friends and relax with a few good drinks. While it doesn't look like a traditional pub, it has a similar feeling. It's all in the details, from the exciting beer menu to an owner who strives to make patrons feel like part of a community, it's the kind of place I'll be back again and again.