The 126-year-old Yale Hotel, a long time staple on the Vancouver blues circuit, closed its doors in 2011. This Vancouver icon, at the corner of Granville and Drake has seen it’s fair share of legendary blues musicians over the years, including Jim Burns, BB King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, James Cotton, Johnny Winter and even Jimmy Page.
Now owned by the MRG Group, which also operates the Biltmore and the Vogue Theatre, the Yale has been rebranded as the Yale Saloon and features a BBQ, themed menu and new country, rock and blues music. The Yale’s kitchen boasts the biggest smoker in Vancouver. My server told me that their slow-smoked meats are made with homemade rubs and spices. The delicious smell of wood smoke wafted through the bar at one point and it was mouth-watering. The saloon theme carries on with the décor featuring wagon wheel chandeliers, saddle seats, a mechanical bull and the use of rock glasses instead of wine glasses.
While there, I enjoyed brisket BBQ sliders with jalapeno mayo, a jalapeno cornbread muffin and deep fried mac and cheese.
Fortunately, and to the delight of its many long time fans, the Yale has kept its iconic neon sign and photos on the wall are testament to its long blues heritage.
Jim Gordon from CTV was there to emcee the media and trade grand opening, hash tagged ‘Brave The Bull’. It was a fun night with mechanical bull rides, music, food and drinks as well as The BC Lions Felions Dance Team and lots of prizes.
The Yale Saloon is a popular place for birthday parties and stagettes and features live music from Monday to Wednesday.
Let’s go!