The Irish Heather Shebeen — Restaurant in Vancouver

I was a frequent Patron of the Irish Heather from the time when they had the restaurant across the street from where they are now. In fact got to know the family from a distance. The old location had a different atmosphere and ambience and was more restaurant than pub atmosphere. To be fair one is not better than the other, just different. I will say it is less restaurant and more toward quality spirits and whatever foods that compliment those drinks which is overly pushed by the staff. I don't mind spending on good liquor but only when I want it. The staff seemed fairly attentive to the patrons and that is something you don't see very often. I like that they have hired many Irish staff and appear to serve authentic Irish food. My wife wanted to order wine but were directed away from that as one of the waiters pointed out to me, "they're known for their quality spirits and beer not their wine." Fair enough and I admired his honesty. The Irish Heather can be truly appreciated by those who have true appreciation for fine liquors. I do like their liquor lounge which feels how can I say . . . casual upscale atmosphere with a layer of cultural...

Terrible place. I paid my $3 like everyone else for my Americano and they said I was taking too long in the washroom. They also said I couldn't stay in the dining room either because of how long I was in the washroom. The manager or whoever wanted me to leave was very intimidating and didn't seem to care that all I wanted to do was enjoy my coffee. He followed me though the coffee cafe was very condescending by making fun of me for thinking I could stay in the cafe to enjoy my coffee. He was very intimidating standing in front of me while I was having some water on my way out saying I was belligerent and that I wasn't acting in a normal way. I assume he made of thos fact to justify kicking me out of the caffe. I wasn't raising my voice or anything to bother the other customers. The coffee cafe was fairly empty so I don't see why I wasn't allowed to enjoy my coffee after coming out ot the washroom. We all have stomach problems sometimes and the manager punishing me for that isn't acceptable, and I will not be returning and I suggest you...

I have to be honest, in that I have only been here a couple of times since the 'big overhaul' years back. I much preferred the vibe, decor and even the actual building that defined the 'old' Irish Heather....but that was then, and sadly, it's long gone. I find the current space, though cheery and pleasant enough... a bit too narrow. Sort of like sitting in a hallway. The staff are always friendly and accommodating, beer selection is decent. I haven't eaten there yet, but sneaking a peak at other's plates...it looks and smells great! Overall, I feel as if the room lacks something...it feels a bit bland. Although it was a few months ago, I recall being unimpressed by the painting on the wall directly across from me. (not sure if the pub rotates their artwork or not...but this particular painting wasn't working for me!) It's a decent pub, but in my opinion, it doesn't come across as especially 'Irish', and definitely lacks the lively energy that describes a traditional Irish...