If the iconic neon sign wasn’t enough to make this hotel the coolest on the East Hastings strip, the fact that it has a boxing ring in the basement certainly is. Gritty and full of character, the hotel’s pub is marked by the smell of stale beer and yet not as gnarly as a lot of people who haven’t been before might suppose. While we wouldn’t recommend spending the night upstairs (that is unless the bar gets the better of you), the pub is all kinds of awesome with super friendly staff, off-sales, The Creature From the Black Lagoon pinball, Pac Man, pool tables, and great live music.

The Drink | According to staff, the most popular order is the tallest can of beer available. However, for special occasions (like a Tuesday), you’ll want to order a Power Shandy. That’s a mix of beer, vodka and a fruity Smirnoff Ice. It’s not for everyone, but it’s effective and to the point. There is, however, a slight catch: the Power Shandi only comes in twos (because each one is made with 1/2 a can of beer and wasting the other half would be stupid). So bring a buddy! | $16 for the pair.

The Astoria Pub  | 769 E.Hastings Street | WEBSITE