The River's Reach Pub — Restaurant in British Columbia

Love the atmosphere and the day time servers, but for the first time going in late, my server slash bartender, named Vanessa I believe was so busy she wouldn't fully let me ask for what I wanted, ordered wings waited a long to time to get my ranch Dips, I asked for a certain amount of glass of wine, I get it she was trying to save me money but that was not the issue wanted a 9 oz not half and half on special price then hiding it behind counter, I notice she was on the phone a alot behind counter, I asked for my bill, because I still finishing a drink didn't come around right away for me to pay and waited for me to finish my drink, I told her sometimes when someone asks for a bill its because they want to pay an leave right away wether they finish the drink or not, I had to wait. Ended up staying longer making friends, they offered to buy me a drink and that person only got their drink and I didn't receive mine, she claimed I was too drunk already, which was not the case honestly that guy who ordered was drunker than me and got the drink and was dancing in the hall, She didn't even offer me a glass of water, if your trying to do your job right and think someone is too drunk and deny them a drink at least bring them a glass of water. She brought me my bill didn't expect a tip, good on her, she didn't deserve one for the service I got from her and said I was the one being rude, I went alone to enjoy a some food and yes I had my head phones to listen to podcasts and texting my bf back, but I wasn't walking around tripping every where being irragant, but yet she was only doing "her job" and called me off. I don't think I did anything wrong in the matter but it ok, I accepted it but I will say her behaviour was terrible for being a busy bartender/server and I did not enjoy it at all. I don't recommend going there after 7pm if she's around anytime before that you'll get peak service, but I can't tell you about the food quality because I haven't tried everything off the menu, I only know I love there wings and went every Wednesday when they had wing Wednesday which they stopped doing and came out with their new menu for cheap appetizers which I have no desire for. Also if I was that drunk she should've asked if I need a cab to make sure I got home safe, clearly she not using her serving it right...

I haven't been to this pub too many times, maybe five or six, as my daughter works a few blocks away. I have to say this though, since our last visit there, we noticed a lot of positive changes in the place.

I've always steered away from pubs generally, as the environment tends not to be very supportive of women. Yes, lots of women work in them, but too often they're not offered the respect they deserve and are more on display than anything. Anyway, this place is breaking the mould.

On our last visit, my daughter and I were sitting next to a table of four men and one woman. There was some too-typical banter going on and the server seemed uncomfortable. Well, the typical banter quickly progressed to full bullying at the minute the table sensed that they were worrying the sweet server. It began to make my daughter and I very uncomfortable. These people clearly feed off of being unkind to people and were classless jerks.

Just when I thought I might have to get the attention of someone to help the server manage the situation, the manager approached the table. She was a very professional woman, who was very respectful and very clear about the expectations of customers at the Rivers Reach. She told them she would never tolerate the servers treating the customers like anything but friends, always being respectful and kind, nor would she ever tolerate any different conduct from the patrons. She offered the table an opportunity to see the error of their actions and when they stood their ground (rudely, too), she had their bill in her hand within seconds and politely asked them to leave the pub.

This manager handled it so well, it was incredibly empowering. As a single woman in her early fifties, I'll be back much more often now. Now I know that I'm supporting a positive, empowering, respectful environment built on mutual support, so I'm excited to return.

The customer service industry desperately needs more advocates for their staff like this manager, she was fantastic! Whoever the people were that were asked to leave, they should be ashamed of themselves and know that the patrons around them shared a laugh at how foolish they looked as they skulked...

Updated Review: So, I am updating my review since talking with the owner of River's Reach and trying them again on May 3, 2023. I was so impressed by the owner's response to my review and in seeking me out to have a good talk about what transpired on our previous visit. I am happy to report that he is trying to bring back 'The Reach' to its former glory. The service on our recent visit was great! Even had a chance to talk with the owner in person as he is very much "hands on" and approachable. The food was good and very much good value. I do know that the owner is trying to add/change items to stand out a bit more from the regular pub food you can get anywhere. The only "drawback" from our visit is that the food was a bit slow in coming out. I know though that the owner is working on this issue and I am positive in time it will be resolved. So.... Please give the 'Reach' your patronage as they are coming along and need our support!

My husband and had our first date 9 years ago at River's Reach and were delighted to find out they finally reopened. We walked in to find the pub had renovated and shortened the establishment... so the fireplace was gone. I would like to say that the food was as good or better than we remembered but unfortunately we were never acknowledge at the table we chose or received menus. There was a table beside us with menus and the other table beside us with food. The bartender, which it seemed he was looking after this section, went to the table beside us with the menus and took their order, then went to the table with the food to ask how things were going. Not once did he talk with us, give us menus, take our drink order or even minimally acknowledge us and let us know he would be with us shortly. Only time he looked at us was when my husband and I got up an left. Poor service, don't know about the food. Saddened that the place we fell in love has dropped it's service standards. I sure hope the food is good. I work hard to have extras to go out occasionally and enjoy a good pub time, sadly we will not be going to River's Reach, missed opportunity for repeat clientele. This occurred March 12, 2023...