Ping pong dive bar in Gastown area. Parking is available on the streets. Sketchy neighbourhood. The inside is definitely divey. Floor is sticky. Tables are sticky. Ping pong balls are sticky. Basically reminds me of the Met, but with ping pong. Staff are friendly. Beers are a bit pricey. The ping pong area has a cosmic theme, with some black light I think. The ping pong balls are orange, and seemed to glow a bit. Good for some casual fun. Just try not to get too tipsy when playing. read more

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If your looking to play ping pong while having a beer, this is the place. Nice options on tap too, been there a couple of times and would recommend. read more

My firm just had a corporate event here. It is nothing wow. Not sure how the business model would works. It is located in a sketchy hood near East Hastings. Yes outside you see a row of homeless people sitting around. There are ping pong tables here and beer. They don't offer cocktails here. They do have non alcoholic drinks but it is super limited (7-up, ginger ale, coke and ice tea). So it is just beer and ping pong and darts. They do not offer food here either but you are free to bring your own food. No this is not a craft beer place. They don't have their own beer. The décor isn't wow here. It is a bit old looking. In terms of cleaniness it was ok. The washroom was quite interesting. I wasn't sure why they would have the counter top in the washroom covered in particle board. I mean particle boards are not water resistant. Also the washroom counter underneath the particle board is made out of a water resistant material. I won't come here by myself or with friends either. Basically if I had to pay than I am out. I don't see much outside customers coming here either. read more

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One star review specifically for Jacob, the "general manager." I called back and forth bar, spoke to Jacob, regarding a reservation for a group of 80 people. This is a social group that I run for people that are new to vancouver. Jacob was incredibly rude, would not let me make a reservation on a Thursday night, which is usually a slow night for any bar in Vancouver. Jacob was insistent on me spending $2000-3000 to rent out the whole bar which is not what I asked to do. I think asked what the smallest group of people would be that I could reserve for my group. He would not give me an answer like 20 people or 40 people. Jacob then preceded to increase his tone of voice when I asked simple questions, and then he ended up saying "I don't want to keep talking and be MORE rude." So then I was like so you realize you just stated that you are being rude and dont want to be more rude, to which then he went silent. The way they treat customers here is completely ridiculous. I simply just wanted to bring my friends group to his bar. He offered me no alternatives and was incredibly rude during the phone call. He literally could have been like we can't accommodate a group of 80, maybe another day, but he actually refused my whole reservation and began to brag how restaurants book out his whole bar for parties. Lastly, he made condescending jokes like "maybe you guys can go to a park," in a very sarcastic tone. I am just shocked that the bar in the worst location in gastown treats people like this. This bar is right next to E Hastings street which is the large homeless encampment in Vancouver, and it's simply not safe to walk around this area in the night time. As long as Jacob is around I will never step foot in this bar. As new bars open in Vancouver this place will become a thing of the past. read more

Very happy that I can still enjoy a night out at a bar that isn't at max capacity, or have an hour long waitlist on a Saturday night. Ive been supporting this bar for the last 4 years because they know how to get it done! The GM and bar staff are always super kind and continue to have great deals on cheap and affordable drinks. The venue is very spacious so you never have to worry about being close to anyone which makes my company and myself feel safe and the music is great! You can bring food inside the venue as well which I found pretty cool. The location is a bit sketchy to walk away from at night, I would suggest ordering an uber if you're unfamiliar with the area. Music is a big thing for myself to enjoy a night out, so thank you Back and Forth for always having the beats on point! read more

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The concept of this place is awesome -- ping pong, darts, and boardgames. It's a step up from board game bars and definitely a hip and bumpin' place to bring a group of friends. We don't have many places like this in Vancouver! We came here last night and unfortunately when we arrived at 9:30 the sign said the next time a Ping Pong Table would be free was 10:10. When we inquired how to rent the next free table, we were told it would be after midnight. Uh, update your sign. I think we wouldn't have even purchased drinks and ducked out to a quieter place. So, yeah, we ended up buying our drinks and only then asking about the tables, unfortunately; however, drinks were pretty decently priced - 5.75 for a pint with an awesome selection of great local craft beers on tap. The place is pretty funky, lots of long tables to bring/seat big groups or to meet some strangers; though it was pretty rough trying to find a place to sit or even stand. The tunes were mid to late 2000s hip hop/rap last night which made it a good vibe. They had some cushy couches on a raised area that had darts, so we ended up chilling and playing some darts and trying to talk however it was super loud. Overall, we were disappointed the tables were all booked and that they didn't update their sign. Yes, yes, it WAS a Saturday night and again, the concept of this bar is good. Drinks are cheap and the crowd is bumpin' (20s/30s). I would check out this place on a week night.. and I bet I'd probably enjoy it, but last night, trying to talk, trying to play ping pong.. trying to enjoy myself seemed impossible. read more

A fun, unexpected place downtown that's different than the typical places. I love how this place is casual, unpretentious and has tons of games available. Ping pong, darts, board games, jenga, it's all here. It's $25/hour per table on a Friday night. We got a huge bucket of ping pong balls and it wasn't a big deal that the balls went everywhere (EVERYWHERE!) because lots of other people had the same issue. It adds to the fun atmosphere. read more

Back and Forth Bar - Bars Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

This is a very under-the-radar bar right opposite the Women's Shelter, near the corner of Columbia and East Cordova. It's not in the nastiest part of the downtown eastside but it's also not quite in Gastown, and you'll pass plenty of interesting characters on your way to and from (I enjoyed a lengthy and almost operatic-level screaming match between a probably-homeless couple each accusing each other of being more crazy than the other). The bar itself isn't well labeled and seems to keep its doors closed, possibly because, see above, so it doesn't look open at a first glance. But step inside and it's got plenty of seating, quirky decor, and lots of ping pong tables should you wish to indulge. I was there on a Tuesday night from about 7-9:30 and it was fairly quiet. Service was quick, background noise levels were quite reasonable so it was easy to chat with friends and enjoy a few drinks. They are definitely a no-frills place and serve strictly beer, wine, or spirits, no fancy cocktails. Food options are also basically non-existent unless you really want a microwaved hot pocket or Chef Boyardee, but they say you're welcome to bring in food from outside and even recommend a few nearby places. The only ick factor for me was the women's bathroom. Toilet stalls themselves were fine but for some reason the original countertop has been covered over with plywood with holes roughly cut out for the basins. Looks bizarre, must be very hard to clean, and I dread to think the amount of damp, disgusting gunk and mould that's probably trapped between the plywood and the original counter. If you want a trendy place or a gastropub, give this a pass. But if you're looking for cheap, cheerful, and absolutely nothing fancy - exactly as they advertise - this place delivers. read more

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It's was a Friday night and it gets busier toward 8pm/9pm. Book your tables in advance. The place is basement rec room cool, Regan is easy going and friendly. Server Sidney is very friendly and good at her job. Had a great time playing table tennis, drinking and hanging out. Drinks (good selection of crafty beer) are well priced. Happy Hour beer is even better value! Thanks Regan! read more

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Have to admit that I used to play ping pong so I'm a little biased. Came here a few months ago to hang out with some friends. It's for the younger crowd (20s). The tables are very squished together so you're constantly either hitting a wall or a person or another table. I get it. They want to make some money but they could do without a table. And the layout is crappy read more

A really fun dive bar and place to hang out and play ping pong! The prices were amazing ($5 beers!) and the table prices were great. My friends and I love to play ping pong and this place is perfect for doing just that if you want. They also have some board games in the back. The bar was pretty busy for a Tuesday night but seemed to clear out by midnight for the most part. We loved the staff retrieving our (badly hit) balls too :) read more

Great casual hangout spot! There are 7(?) ping pong tables, a decent amount of seating and a really fair priced bar. They have a feature shot every day, wine, and decent craft beer selection. Staff are friendly and fast to take finished cans or glasses, not a long wait at the bar. I was there with a big group, we had 2 tables to ourselves, staff were kind while letting us know our time was nearly up. Had a blast here, had no idea it existed but glad my friend organized this outing, would definitely come back again. read more

Came to this place last Saturday night and was amazed by the disrespectful conduct of the bartenders. Service was deplorable and both of the bartenders were extremely rude. read more

This is my least fav bar in Vancouver to jerk off in, they've removed all locks on the stall doors so often times someone will walk in. Consider yourself warned. read more

This place gets my vote. But I also love ping pong. So this is the deal. You get dive style liquor nothing fancy. No food but you can bring in take out or order delivery. We got pizza from nicli next door. And there is cheap ping pong $10-25 per hour depending on time of the week. The tables are poorly spaced and you won't get a real game Going if your serious about ping pong. But to socialize. Hang out. Have drinks. And occasionally play ping pong. I highly recommend. Now with all the food delivery compnanies. I think this place is seriously dope. I can have my poke/sushi. My buddy can have his pizza. And we can play ping pong when we want. All the best to this place. I'll be sitting there like a regular forever now. Edit - Oh why did it get 4 stars? The ping pong table set up really hinders an acceptable level of ping pong play. cramped for anybody beyond a beginner read more

Now this is what I'm talking about Vancouver! We need more fun, chill places like this! A ping-pong and board game bar?! Hell to the yes! If you're looking for a fun place to sit on some comfy vintage sofas, eat pizza pockets and have a glass of wine (that isn't your living room), then you need to come check out Back and Forth! This place is known for all their ping pong tables. You can either walk in or reserve a table, but I'd recommend making a reservation because they only have 6 tables. It's cheaper on weekdays ($10 for a table) and $25 on weekends. They have a good selection of beer and wine on tap, as well as junk food snackies. I'm just saying this is my new favourite place and you will be seeing me here often. Everyone needs to check them out! read more

I went with a group of friends and we were so excited to try this place out! We were welcomed by the bouncer when we got there with an insult to my ID photo? Not a great start. The staff weren't any friendlier when we got in. Honestly this was such a disappointing experience, the service was terrible. It looks like loads of fun but it's a major money grabber. read more

Cool spot! Has a bit of a dive bar feel but what makes it special are the ping pong tables, the games available behind the bar, and the super reasonable beer prices! (Not to mention the very decent beer selection.) A little confusing since there are signs on the wall indicating you're meant to pay to rent the tables but this didn't seem to be the case - people were playing and leaving the rackets on the tables for others to use. (The listed prices were pretty steep too, I'd be annoyed if I had paid and then turned around and saw people playing for free.) I think it would make more sense to change a nominal cover to get in, instead of charging 'rent' on the tables. Fun spot different than your standard bar, I'll be back! read more

Fairly priced drinks, darts, ping pong, and a nice vibe - overall it makes for a chill experience and a place I'd go with a group of friends. It's located in a not-so-nice part of town so I wasn't expecting much to begin with, but it turned out to be very nice on the inside. Staff was friendly. No food on the menu so don't come here on an empty stomach! I didn't come with any food myself, but I believe they don't have a policy against visitors bringing their own food. read more

I went here with a group and what a fun place to hang out! Selection for beers was a bit small but they still have good ones being served. The gentlemen working there are super friendly and they remembered the drink order for me (thankfully!). You can play ping pong (as that is their main attraction) or darts if you choose. Great atmosphere and clean bathrooms. Only thing is I wish the music level in there was turned down just a little bit :) great place for groups and parties, you will be treated well. read more

Best bar I've been to in years, the staff is great and the place is extremely spacious. Probably the best playlist of music I've ever heard from anywhere as well. Plus, the owner is an absolute beauty read more

A really chill hangout spot with plenty of good beers on tap. Wines and spirits are also available (no cocktails). You can order in food from outside restaurants (saw a lot of pizza deliveries, Niclis is next door). Or they have small snacks for sale (like Pizza Pops! Cup noodle, Chef Boyardee and chips... talk about 90s nostalgia!) Reserve early for the $25/hour ping pong because they book up pretty fast on the weekends. You can reserve a ping pong table on their website: https://backandforthbar.resurva.com/book read more

I love the atmosphere here. I can tell that their aiming something a little familiar yet outside the box which is appreciated. I came here to celebrate a friend's Birthday. I had some sodas they had drinks. We played a few rounds in the rec room. read more

Great night out location for groups or couples. We rented a half hour table tennis and had an absolute blast. Looking around, there is also plenty of board games and other fun activities. Essentially an adult version of the fraternity scene where things are clean and organized, people more put together and you would not need to clean up afterwards! The drinks menu was decent and the bartender was very friendly and helpful. I would not be surprised that this is a packed place on a Friday night. Highly recommend! read more

This place is always treating everyone walking through the door with the most respect and always with big smiles especially the creator of the spot Regan Truong. This while having a great staff serving drinks in the most timely matter while proving a variety of activities. These include most party card games, darts, old school nintendo and lots of ping pong tables. Definetly a place to check out! Chic décor · Friendly bartenders · Fun atmosphere · Cheap drinks · Hip atmosphere read more

Such a fun and unique bar! Lovely, friendly staff and a great vibe. Great place to hang with a group of friends and play ping pong with a few drinks read more

Militant staff really puts a damper on the experience, and a bit pricey for what it is. Not worth going to.

Quirky little bar just outside of Gastown. Staff are chatty and quick on their feet. Whether you go for the ping pong, board games or cheap beer and spirits, you're bound to have a good time. read more

Bar was okay. More expensive than it should be. They were confusingly protective of their tables. The bar was empty and they cut us off in tie breaker game so that the table would be empty again. A friend posted a negative review and they followed us to another bar hours later to complain at us for the negative comment. I found it bizarre that they followed us and it was very unprofessional. I will not go back. read more

Went here for an event. Cool facilities, awesome drafts and drinks. Could use some food but other than that pretty rad.

Back and forth is among some of the top tier bars in Vancouver, if I could give 6 Stars I would. Service is impeccable and the servers are 10/10 smexy read more

We had a corporate event at the Back and Forth Bar in the summer. This is such a fun bar because they have ping pong tables, and the atmosphere is very chill and relaxed. The drinks are alright and pretty standard. However, they didn't have a lot of food options. So we had to order catering from somewhere else. Overall, this is a fun bar. read more

Just came here for the first time with my friends and had a rad night. Good tables, awesome beer (so pumped to see Fuggles on tap) and our server came by lots to bring us drinks and a reminder when our our table reservation was almost done. Vancouver - we've waited too long for a ping pong bar - the wait is over! I'm also impressed because I dropped my credit card there and the owner, Regan, found me online and let me know he had it. My wallet got stolen a few weeks back and I would've been super bummed to lose another card. Anyways, thanks guys! We'll be back. read more

Ping pong and beer...how could you go wrong? The alcohol selection here was great. All four of us were very happy with what we ordered, which were all beers we'd never had before. I can't recall exactly how much ping pong was or how long we were able to play per session. I want to say it was an hour. We were here a bit on the earlier side...9 pm-ish, so it was still a bit empty but even when it started to fill up, it wasn't obnoxiously crowded. Actually, it wasn't even crowded. They have about six ping pong tables, plus high-top tables, plus a bar, plus a sitting area with couches. This place is cozy! And the bartender, god bless...even when we had a couple drinks and started playing a game with about 8 balls at the same damn time, he didn't bat an eye. Either Canadians really are the nicest people in the world or he took a look at our childishness and thought "lol ok, America." Either way, this is a great place to let loose and have FUN! You're distracted by games, not phones! read more

I appreciate honest reviews... and so I'll leave just that. This is a cool place to hangout - ping pong tables, board games, darts, you can bring your own food or order in. It's perfect for hanging with friends in a laidback environment and the drinks are well priced. The service wasn't good at all, but to be fair you don't really *need* service unless you order drinks since you can bring your own food and keep yourself entertained with the ping pong tables, darts, or board games. Where this place really turned me off was when I ordered a glass of red wine. It tasted awful and just not right. I only had a small sip, told the bartender I'm so sorry but it doesn't taste very good and if I could try something else. He said they don't do refunds and that if I wanted something else I'd have to pay for it. I ordered a beer and it was fine, but I've never been to a place (any restaurant or bar, no matter how high or low end) where when you send back a bad drink you have to pay. I didn't want a refund and I don't care about the $6 for the beer, but I was pretty appalled with the service I received since I don't think it's on par with other bars at it's caliber. read more

Looks like a great place. We were there at 4pm on a Saturday and unfortunately learned that our 12 year old daughter was not allowed in as they only have a nightclub license. They were very friendly about it and we'll go back as a couple but would be nice if the place was family friendly, especially during early hours like this. We've been to places like this in Toronto and New York and they do a great job of mixing families with everyone. Something for the owners to consider especially given the growing number of families living in apartments downtown. read more

This is a really fun place to spend an evening. Lively atmosphere, very friendly staff. Great new bar!