DINNER AND A SHOW, EAST VAN STYLE
There’s a particular kind of night that only really exists on Commercial Drive. It starts with the hum of conversation spilling out onto the sidewalk. A clink of glasses. The smell of something good coming from an open kitchen door. And then, just down the street, a marquee glowing softly — welcoming people into a theatre that has been shaping culture in this city for more than half a century.
That’s the magic of a dinner-and-a-show night on The Drive.
At the centre of it is The Cultch, one of Vancouver’s most beloved cultural institutions, located at the historic York Theatre on Commercial Drive. For over 50 years, The Cultch has been bringing the world to East Van — and East Van to the world — through bold, intimate, and deeply human live performances in theatre, dance, music, circus, and visual arts.
The Cultch isn’t just a theatre. It’s a gathering place. A connector. A space where stories are told, conversations begin, and communities overlap. And now, it’s inviting audiences to stretch that sense of connection beyond the theatre doors.
A NIGHT THAT MOVES THROUGH THE NEIGHBOURHOOD
With a curated group of restaurant partners located along Commercial Drive, The Cultch is encouraging audiences to turn a show into a full evening out — one that moves through the neighbourhood, from table to theatre and back again.
Each partner offers a different flavour of the neighbourhood — from cozy French bistros to rooftop patios, Italian wine bars, and vibrant Latin kitchens.
MEET THE CULTCH’S RESTAURANT PARTNERS ON THE DRIVE
Ticket-holders can enjoy 15% off food at participating restaurants on the same day as their performance, making it easy to start the night with dinner, linger over drinks after the curtain call, or do both. It’s not about rushing. It’s about settling in.
Offer begins October 1, 2025. Proof of ticket purchase is required. The discount does not apply to alcohol or groceries and is only valid for shows within The Cultch season (excluding rental shows).
ABSINTHE BISTRO
A warm and intimate French bistro offering seasonal, chef-crafted dishes made with local ingredients. Expect simple, refined flavours in a cozy, candle-lit setting that’s perfect for a relaxed pre-theatre dinner.
LA MEZCALERIA
A celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine made with organic ingredients and free-range meats, complemented by craft agave cocktails and curated tequila and mezcal flights.
SING SING
A playful and unexpected mix of pizza, pho, cocktails, beer, and natural and organic wines — perfect for casual dining that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
SOCIAL
A modern eatery with a rooftop patio overlooking The Drive, offering everything from vegan bowls to steak and pasta, alongside a strong drinks program and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
HAVANA
A hybrid of authentic Latin flavours and Pacific Northwest style, featuring fresh, local ingredients, innovative cocktails, and BC craft beers. Lively, colourful, and full of energy — just like the shows it pairs with.
CAFFÈ LA TANA
An Italian gem known for its small plates and shareable pastas, paired with an all-Italian wine list and a thoughtfully curated selection of cocktails, grappa, and amari. Ideal for lingering, conversation, and starting (or ending) the evening slowly.
CULTURE, COMMUNITY, AND STAYING A WHILE
A night at The Cultch has always been about more than just the performance — it’s about gathering, connecting, and experiencing culture together. By pairing live art with local food and drink, The Cultch and its restaurant partners are making it easier than ever to turn a show into a full evening on The Drive.
From the first sip to the final curtain call, dinner and a show on Commercial Drive is a celebration of local talent, neighbourhood flavour, and the kind of night you’ll want to do again.
