With spring comes new life, and that's exactly what's on deck for Chupito, the Michelin Guide-recognized bar-restaurant that lost its alley-access patio spot near Gastown last fall due to site redevelopment.
The former shipping container bar and seasonal hangout known for its excellent cocktails and elevated but approachable Mexican dishes is now welcoming guests in a new indoor-outdoor space in Mount Pleasant.
Chupito has slid into one half - the left side, to be specific - of the La Taqueria space at 2450 Yukon St, and officially opened its doors (after a little soft opening phase) on April 16.
The location makes perfect sense; La Taqueria's original West Hastings location gave Chupito its first home and there's some behind-the-scenes cross pollination with ownership. The Chupito crew have infused their new digs with a refreshing dose of colour and comfort, with cheeky oh-so-Chupito elements, like the "Meno Elites, Mas Elotes" painted sign on the wall, for one. (It means "Fewer elites, more elotes," as in the Mexican corn on the cob dish that happens to be on the menu, too.)
Fans of the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand pick will be happy to know much of the food and drink from the OG version are there thanks to Chupito's key players still very much in place, like co-owner and bar maven Tara Davies (joined by Erick Vazquez of Chupito 1.0 and Cantina 189) and Chef Maria Ponce, but the menu has had a fantastic refresh.
What's on the menu at the new Chupito
Davies tells V.I.A. the new Chupito has really gone back to its roots as being inspired by Mexican coastal cuisine, so guests will see more seafood on the menu. While oysters on the half-shell have been a Chupito staple, the Pacific gems now come topped with a smoky, spicy Salsa Marisquera, a traditional seafood hot sauce, with a clever addition of a sprig of fresh dill to make it truly a next level bite.
The tuna tostada is a new rendition, done ceviche style, and there are now braised white fish "pescadillas," akin to crunchy tacos, served with a warm tomato sauce and shredded cabbage on top.
The showstopper, however, may look intimidating: A whole fried sea bream, presented upright on a board with a side of Yucatan-style mango xnipec (a salsa), lime wedges, a pile of Colima salt, and warm tortillas. Order this for the table and some drinks and enjoy taking the fish apart morsel by morsel, dipping it into the salt, loading it into the taco, giving it a squeeze of lime and a bit of the xinpec, and things feel easy breezy.
If you can save room for dessert, Chupito's beloved tres leches cake with fresh basil endures, and there's a new flan with mango sauce available.
Cocktails are at the heart of Chupito, and the new drinks list does not disappoint. Chupito's hallmark are drinks that are wildly inventive (with an emphasis on sustainability through its ingredient use) but phenomenally approachable. There's a story behind each one, so consider snagging a barstool and enjoying some lore.
The Barra Vieja honours Vazquez's mother and is a take on an espresso martini, with mezcal, Averna, cream sherry, cold brew, and mazapan (a sweet, nutty Mexican candy). Speaking of sustainability, the Bonampak deploys spent coffee, a milk washed mezcal, Cynar, sweet vermouth, and orange for a Negroni cousin. The Puerticito is light and refreshing, featuring watermelon and basil notes with a bit of fizz.
There are beers, wine, and non-alcoholic options aplenty, too. And, of course, each guest is greeted with a chupito, a little taste, in the form of a shot glass of a daily frozen margarita or a non-alc option.
The new space is warm and lively, with indoor and outdoor seating, which means Chupito can be open rain or shine, unlike in its old space.
To start, seats are first-come, first-served. Enter on the left side of La Taqueria. Chupito 2.0 in Mount Pleasant is open Wednesdays and Sundays from 5 to 11 p.m. and Thursday to Saturday from 5 p.m. until late.
Video: Inside and on the menu at Chupito's new Vancouver location
@forkingawesomevia Chupito has returned! Vancouver’s Michelin Bib Gourmand bar-restaurant is back in a new Mount Pleasant location, serving up regional Mexican fare with a coastal focus—think oysters, tostadas, a whole fried fish, and standout cocktails built on mezcal and sustainable ingredients. It’s indoor plus patio so no more watching the weather report to see if they’re open! It’s cozy, colourful, and lively. Walk-ins only for now. #forkingawesome #vancouverbc ♬ Tropical - Izabella Creator BM
This article was originally published April 16, 2025 and has been updated.
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