Gringo is a casual, late-night Mexican and Tex-Mex taqueria at 27 Blood Alley Square in Vancouver‘s historic Gastown district. It sits on a cobblestone courtyard tucked behind Carrall and Water Streets and has become a Gastown staple for affordable creative tacos, cold beer and cheerful cocktails served until 1AM or later. Travelers come for its kitschy, colourful dining room, its low prices in an otherwise pricey neighbourhood, and its position at the heart of Vancouver’s oldest streets.
What to Expect at Gringo
The room is small and loud, with bright walls, quirky pop-culture decor and communal energy that builds as the evening goes on. The short menu centres on tacos in soft tortillas with rotating fillings, along with snackable plates such as nachos, quesadillas and chips with salsa and guacamole. Portions are designed for ordering several items and sharing across the table. Vegetarian options are usually available, so mention any dietary needs when you order.
The drinks lean playful rather than precious. Expect margaritas, tequila and mezcal pours, Mexican lagers and a few house cocktails. Gringo works well as a pre-game stop before Gastown’s bars or as a cheap late bite after them. Seating is first-come, first-served, and a heated patio on Blood Alley Square opens in warmer months.
- Creative Tacos: Rotating fillings at a budget price point, built for ordering by the round.
- Margaritas & Tequila: Straightforward agave cocktails and shots that suit the party mood.
- Late Hours: Open until 1AM Sunday to Thursday and 2AM on Friday and Saturday.
- Blood Alley Setting: A cobbled courtyard among restored Gastown brick warehouses.
- Group-Friendly Plates: Nachos and shareable snacks for casual crowds.
Gringo at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 27 Blood Alley Square, Vancouver, BC V6B 0C4 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Gastown |
| Operating Hours | Sun–Thu 12PM–1AM; Fri–Sat 12PM–2AM |
| Admission / Price Range | $ (budget tacos and drinks) |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 45 to 90 minutes |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Waterfront Station (Expo and Canada Lines, SeaBus), about a 7-minute walk; paid street and lot parking nearby |
| Official Website & Phone | gringorestaurants.com · +1 604-673-0513 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Gringo does not take reservations for most visits, so arrive in the mid-afternoon or before 6PM to get a table without waiting. Friday and Saturday nights after 9PM bring lines and a bar-like crowd. From Waterfront Station, walk east along Water Street and turn into the square off Carrall Street. Several buses also run along nearby Hastings and Cordova Streets. If you drive, use metered spots or one of the EasyPark lots around Water Street.
Blood Alley’s cobblestones and the tight interior can be challenging for wheelchairs and strollers, so call ahead to check access. Afterward, walk two minutes to the Gassy Jack statue in Maple Tree Square. The Gastown Steam Clock on Water Street is about five minutes away. Water Street’s boutiques and bars make an easy evening stroll.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Gringo open, and when should I go?
Gringo opens daily at noon. It closes at 1AM Sunday to Thursday and at 2AM on Friday and Saturday. Weekday afternoons are the quietest time to visit.
Is Gringo expensive, and do I need a reservation?
No. Gringo is a $ spot with budget tacos and drinks, and seating is mostly walk-in. Check the official website for current menus and group options.
How long should I budget?
Allow 45 minutes for a quick bite, or up to 90 minutes for drinks and several rounds of tacos.
Is Gringo family-friendly?
Daytime visits suit families, while late nights skew toward adults and the bar crowd. The dress code is fully casual.
When planning your Vancouver travel guide or browsing verified attractions in Vancouver, pair this stop with standout local spots including Hastings Park, George Wainborn Park, Ofra's catering LTD, and Gastown (0.1 km away).
