"A novelist, a dancer, an artist, and a musician walked into a bar... And then... they bought it!" This isn't the setup for a joke—it's the origin story of Pour Choices, a unique pub in Vancouver located at 1919 Main Street.
Pour Choices was born when a group of local artists and creatives who frequented the previous establishment saw an opportunity to transform it into something more. Don Elliott, a novelist and former comedian, alongside his wife Lorena (a professional dancer of 30 years), and collaborators Kayne Young, Juels Provstgaard, Peder Provstgaard, Jake Gander, and Tommy Hartman envisioned a gathering space that would celebrate and nurture Vancouver's creative community. Rather than pursuing profits, their collective aimed to build a haven where artists could thrive and where creativity would be accessible to everyone.
What makes Pour Choices special isn't just the drinks and cheery bartenders, but the creative atmosphere cultivated within its walls. As first-time visitors immediately notice, the pub features a cozy book nook corner and free community library, art on every wall, and, often, live music.
The pub offers various programs throughout the week. Among other events includes an open jam session on Tuesdays where musicians of all skill levels gather. Thursday nights feature open mic comedy, while Fridays showcase live music, and Saturdays are for karaoke. Sunday mornings host a writer's group where participants get together and write with different writing challenges or prompts.
Perhaps most notably, Pour Choices rotates artwork monthly, featuring local artists. “Every month we have a new artist and we swap out all the artwork on all the walls," Elliott explains. These exhibitions have been surprisingly successful: artist Brandon Heller sold 14 pieces.
Future plans include expanding their food cart area and building a large stage for concerts and festivals on the back patio.
Pour Choices is owned by a majority LGBTQ+ identified collective that includes a number of veterans. It’s a diverse group that’s come together to make a place where the community feels like family.
As Elliott puts it, their goal is simple: “We wanted to create a space where everybody from all walks of life can feel warm and welcome." The name may be "Pour Choices," but it might just be… the best choice.
