Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Arcana Spirit Lounge?
A: Arcana Spirit Lounge is an occult‑themed cocktail bar and restaurant in Gastown, Vancouver, hidden behind the storefront of a pet psychic. We serve tarot‑ and occult-inspired cocktails and elevated small plates in a cozy speakeasy-style setting.
Q: Where are you located?
A: Arcana is located in Gastown, the hip and historic downtown district of Vancouver, BC. We are at 238 Abbott Street near the corner of Abbott and Cordova, just south of Water Street, and bordering Blood Alley.
Q: How do I find the entrance?
A: Look for the Pet Psychic storefront at 238 Abbott St. The entrance to Arcana is through the main door; just pull the handle, and Arcana will be open to you.
Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: Our hours of operation are as follows:
Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday: 6 PM - 1 AM
Friday and Saturday: 5 PM - 2 AM
Monday: Closed
Q: Do I need a reservation for Arcana?
A: Reservations are highly recommended; however, we welcome walk-in guests where space allows. You can make a reservation online for up to 12 guests; for larger groups, please send an email to reservations@arcanabar.com and we would be happy to assist you.
Q: Do you serve food?
A: Yes. We serve European-inspired, elevated small plates along with our cocktails, mocktails and other libations. See the full menu here.
Q: Do you offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options?
A: Yes. Our menu includes a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Should you have allergies or other specific dietary requirements, please let our staff know so that you may safely dine with us.
Q: What is your age policy? Do you allow minors?
A: As a food-primary establishment, we welcome those under 19, when accompanied by family and other loved ones, to share a meal at Arcana before 11 PM. Of course, minors may not partake of our spirit offerings, but we have a fulsome zero-proof menu along with other non-alcoholic options.
Q: Is Arcana wheelchair accessible?
A: Although our second floor can be accessed only via a staircase, and our washrooms cannot accommodate push-button entry and grab bars, our main entrance has step-free access and our ground floor includes accessible tables. If you use a wheelchair or have other accessibility needs, please note this on your reservation and we will ensure that you are seated in a section appropriate to your needs, inasmuch as we are able.
Q: Can I hold my event at Arcana? Can you accommodate large groups?
A: We offer partial or full buyouts of Arcana for private events of up to 75 guests. Please send an email to info@arcanabar.com with the details of your event, including the type of event, date, guest count and any special requirements, and our team would be happy to assist.
Q: Does Arcana have a dress code?
A: Although we do not have a strict dress code, we encourage you to dress for an elegant night out, in your own personal style.
Q: Is there parking at Arcana? What's the best way to get there?
A: We do not have our own parking lot, but there is quite a bit of parking available on the surrounding streets as well as in nearby parkades. Please plan your evening so as to avoid driving after drinking alcohol; it is easy to take a taxi or an Uber/Lyft to and from Arcana.
If you prefer to take public transit, Arcana is a short walk from Waterfront Station, where you can catch the SkyTrain Expo Line and Canada Line, the SeaBus to North Vancouver or the West Coast Express to Port Moody, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, and Mission. There are also several bus routes along Cordova Street.
Q: Will drinking absinthe make me go blind/mad?
A: No.
Q: Are your staff really psychic?
A: Yes.