The Irish Heather is a "European Gastropub" in the heart of Gastown. Despite always having found the term gastropub to be somewhat ridiculous. I quite like this place. The building is a perfect blend of modern design and old world brickwork that makes contemporary Gastown such a cool place. It's a fairly narrow establishment. If you want to get in on weekends reserve ahead, or show up before seven.
Last week I checked out a place that specialized in a wide variety of beers. This week, it's a place dedicated to a wide variety of whisky. Whisk(e)y (some countries use the e and some don't) has nearly an entire side of the menu devoted to it. There are hundreds of them from all over the world. The lion's share of the selection belongs to scotch whisky (as it should), but you'll be spoiled for choice no matter what you're looking for. There's even a decent selection of whiskies from India. The Heather also hosts a little whiskey tasting lounge in the back called Shebeen. I said you'd probably have to reserve to get into the bar, but you'll definitely have to reserve if you want to see the lounge. That being said, while whisky is the star, this is still a full bar. There's a great beer list, and loads of wine, spirits and cocktails.
The food here is also very nice. The Heather hosts a regular event they call their "Long Table Series." This is a communal dining experience that takes place at the eponymous long table. I must admit, this is something I've never tried, though the idea certainly intrigues me. I have eaten from the normal menu at The Heather more than once, however, and have always been pleased with their delicious pub food. Somebody clearly knows what's going on in the kitchen.
A fun, friendly atmosphere, with live celtic fiddling in the background. A great experience and an absolute must for any Vancouver area pub-goer.
The Irish Heather
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