When birthday season comes, there's always a scramble for a place with enough seating. (Yes, I live in a universe where the motto is "the more, the merrier"). For the past years, I've tried The Hub and Yaletown Brewing at Yaletown and Tap and Barrel at Olympic Village, which have been great places (if you're looking for a pub for a big gathering). The last birthday was held in Yaggers Downtown. 

Food/Drinks: Some of the better pub food I've eaten. Would reco whatever you find interesting on their menu. We ordered quite a bit and they were all pretty good. We had the albacore tuna wonton tacos, which were crisp and refreshing. (an outlier for greasy pub food). 

Ambience: Well, it doesn't stand out ambience wise. Tap and Barrel was more sophisticated. Yaggers is more of a sports bar, with big tv screens and a bar or drinks. 

Service: Really good. Our server came into the room quite regularly to ask if we had additional drink or food orders. And super kudos to her, especially as it was all separate bills and everyone was moving around. 

BONUS: They have a private room at the back of the pub for big groups. AND IT'S FREE. You just have to call in and fill in a reservation form. 

Transport: Take the Canada Line, get down at waterfront station and you could either walk or take a bus. I would recommend walking though. It's about a 10 minute walk and the way there is peppered with other cafes/restos you can note for next time's food adventure.

Some places have daily food specials, so if there's something you are interested in, or if you feel the regular prices there are daunting, you can try going on a particular day. Yagger's Downtown has a special every day, and on Wednesdays it is Pulled Pork Tacos at $2.29 each with purchase of a drink.