Sarah: Drop Your Anchors at Portside

Follow Sarah on Twitter: @sarallin

This past Sunday I somehow lucked out and was tasked with going to the media preview of Portside, the latest venture by Mark Brand.

Located in Gastown, Portside hopes to bring East coast pub culture to Vancouver. Right off the bat they had my interest, as Vancouver isn't exactly known as the most friendly place.

With a name like Portside, it's quite obvious that they're going for a nautical vibe, and there are all sorts of cool artifacts to check out in the space. On top of being a bar, Portside also has a stage for live music acts, filling a void of medium-sized venues in the city.

Some highlights of the night, including me stuffing my face (as per usual)

The menu sticks to the basics, but is definitely a step up from your average drunk food. Highlights include the pulled pork, and hot dogs. Drinks are definitely the main attraction though, as Porside features an impressive 24 beers on tap, with 6 selections each from: local, Canadian, American, and international. Needless to say,  I didn't get a chance to try them all, but that will certainly be a goal of mine in the coming weeks.

Overall, Portside has an awesome vibe, and great food and drinks to back it up. I'm looking forward to checking out a live show and getting closer to my beer goal.

Hot Spot: House Guest

Last week I attended the media event for House Guest, Gastown's newest hot spot. And, it's just that.

The crowd was eclectic, from fashion bloggers to foodies, there was something for everyone. House Guest is definitely the type of place that attracts beautiful people, but it also boasts great food. I must say that the quality of the food surprised me, even though Liv & Kelsey had told me how great it was.

Liv & Kelsey of Northill Creative

In addition to the crowd and the food, the space is gorgeous. The branding was done by House Guest bartender, Adam, with owners Justin & Mattie leading the team behind the decor.

Food recommendations:

• PMC - pimento mac'n'cheese croquettes (the Red Eye ketchup is amazing)
• Petite Ground Round - braised short rib Sloppy Joe's (favourite!) *
• Fish Tacos - soft shell crab tacos*

* not on the online menu

I'd had such a great time at the media event that I had to go back the next day to try some other items on the menu (still delish), scope out the actual crowd (still beautiful and well dressed!), and drink some more!

Ashley from Social Chair & Peter of the Starving Stylist

Be sure to save me a spot at the bar.