In association with the Platinum Card® from American Express / Vancouver
Rain or shine
In association with The Platinum Card® from American Express
This windswept city on the Pacific Coast may seem like an outlier to some but Vancouver is a metropolis with personality to boot and a culture that combines alpine cool with the West Coast’s free spirit. We drop in on some of the city’s favoured haunts to find out how The Platinum Card® from American Express could help uncover Vancouver’s myriad treasures by putting your experience at the fore, whether it’s securing a tip-top room overlooking the Harbour or a much sought-after table for dinner downtown.
Search ‘Amex Platinum’ to find out more
01 Four Seasons Go green
Vancouver isn’t lacking in green space but the rooftop garden at the Four Seasons is – figuratively and literally – a step up from the rest. It’s also a beautiful spot to watch the sunset. Platinum Card Members can enjoy valuable benefits here but if that’s not enough to tempt you perhaps the lure of one of the city’s best seafood restaurants will reel you in.
02 Revolver Coffee Take your best shot
Grab a seat in one of the booths and watch the baristas tinker away. This cosy café in the Downtown prides itself on beans sourced from North American roasters such as Matchstick. Take note: the menu changes frequently.
03 Holt Renfrew Raise a glass
Whether you’re settling in for an indulgent afternoon or simply browsing for a gift, Holt Renfrew’s glass-fronted space offers a range that never fails to impress. Brands span from Tod’s and Hermès to home talent La Canadienne.
04 Blue Water Café Sea change
German chef Frank Pabst has been winning over residents and visitors alike since 2003. Though his menu caters to all tastes, those with a penchant for seafood will feel most at home – the miso-saké glazed sablefish is a house favourite. The warm interior is ideal for a tranquil lunch but feel free to grab a seat on the verdant terrace and soak up the rays.
05 L’Abattoir Behind bars
This Gastown favourite was built on the grounds of Vancouver’s first prison, which has been in continuous operation since the 19th century. Today it serves West Coast plates tempered with French flair alongside an enticing list of cocktails such as the elegant Mitton.
06 Want Apothecary Lotions and potions
Want Les Essentiels founders Byron and Dexter Peart modelled their boutique on the old-world charm of apothecaries. From the Carrara marble floors to the Verso cosmetics lining the shelves, the space has an inimitable allure.
07 Hawksworth Table service
Chef and owner David Hawksworth fashions continental fare from Canadian ingredients. The waiting list can be a scramble but Platinum’s Concierge* is your ticket to a table, as well as a complimentary amuse bouche and pre-dessert to tempt the palate.
08 Lobby Lounge Like a rolling stone
Fairmont’s Lounge Bar hums with melody seven days a week but is best enjoyed in the wee hours over a final cocktail. Grab a house-classic Vancouver Club and pull up a pew at the Bob Dylan-inspired tables.
Search ‘Amex Platinum’ to find out more
*Terms and conditions: There is no cost to you for services that a concierge performs on your behalf, although you are responsible for any purchases, fees and shipping charges you authorise to be charged to your Card account. American Express reserves the right to note profile and preference data for servicing and marketing purposes and is not responsible for notifying a restaurant of food allergies.
