May 17 2023, Dilawri BC
Downtown Glam @ Parq Vancouver
If you’ve ever been to Las Vegas, you know the feeling of everything-at-your-fingertips fun. Without even walking outside, you can stroll to world-class drinks, performances, dinner, and gambling—that’s the glitz and convenience you’ll find at Parq Vancouver. Start your evening by checking into the glamorous on-property JW Marriott — they even have a Date Night Package available — before changing into your evening wear for a night on the town. First stop: a game of pool at D/6 Lounge with some stellar cocktails in hand. (The bookcase behind the pool table houses a secret room behind it – go ahead, check it out.) Ask to see the secret drinks, visible only when your server shines black light on them — we loved the spirit-forward Neblina with Volcan tequila, agave, chocolate bitters, and Grand Marnier.
Next up, head for a luxurious surf-and-turf dinner at The Victor — specifically, their excellent aburi sushi and steaks that run the range from perfect PEI-raised filet mignon to wagyu striploin to a share-worthy Tomahawk. There’s one must-order side on the menu: Mac & Cheese Waffle appetizer with fondue dip. (Thank us later.) After eating, it’s party time. Head straight to Parq’s third-level Lotus Lounge to take in some live music by the Dueling Pianos, a popular duo of piano players singing contemporary requests from the audience. Expect variety, from Ed Sheeran’s greatest hits to hip hop classics to ABBA sing-a-longs. Dance to a few songs (why not), then hit Parq casino for a few lucky spins of the slots and roulette wheel. On a roll? Stay a while and soak up the energy around you. The best part of this “date night”? Just take the elevator up to your plush hotel bed whenever tiredness strikes. Come morning, wrap up your quality time with a comfort-food brunch at Honey Salt before heading back into the real world, well-rested, after a date night well-played.
North Van Adventure @ Lonsdale Quay
The beauty of a North Vancouver date staycation is that (unless you live there) it can feel like a big trip — just driving across the bridge into North Shore’s nature is a breath of fresh air. First stop: Seaside Hotel, conveniently located right in the Shipyards District. To make the most of the waterfront location, reserve a harbourview room (and park your car overnight—you won’t need it again until morning). Next, walk for five scenic minutes to grab a specialty coffee from Nemesis before heading into the next-door Polygon Gallery. Browse the well-curated gift shop, pick up a few souvenirs, and view whatever exhibit is on at the time.
With your artistic appetite satiated, it’s time for a beer before dinner. There are lots of local spots breweries to choose from in the vicinity, but Streetcar Brewing is particularly good. Not into beer? Beloved local donut joint Cream Pony is just a few doors down, with cases of sweet pick-me-ups. Next stop: a seaside stroll and dinner. There is no dearth of excellent choices — from Nook for Italian to Anatoli Souvlaki for Greek — but if you’re feeling the local vibes, head straight to The Gull. The casual pub-eatery is said to have “the best burger in North Van”. We tried it; we agree. After a movie in bed and a good night’s sleep, wake up to stroll the Lonsdale Quay Market & Food Hall. Browse the baked goods, stock up on treat-yourself items from the many shops (we love all-natural essential oil remedies from Saje) as well as fresh fruit and vegetables. Art galleries, artisanal coffees, waterfront walks, and local breweries—what’s not to love?
Heading home from these action-packed dates will make you feel like you spent a full weekend away with your loved one—not just a date night.
