The ol’ coffee shop shack across from our building in Gastown has been empty since we moved in last February. There were plans for Sean Heather to renovate it into Pepper, a sister restaurant to Salt, but those were abandoned. It was up for lease for a while, then the sign came down. About a month ago we saw some fireballs out our window – the roof was being tarred. And over the past few days, white paint. The oil disposal barrel out back was a clear indicator for a restaurant…but what?

I interrupted the painter yesterday to see what he could tell me – no name or opening date, just that it would be a “Westcoast” restaurant and the owners were someone from Whineo’s and the chef from Loose Moose and El Furniture Warehouse. My hopes are high for a cool and casual space to eat, drink and hang out – we need more than just the Alibi Room in our block! I’m glad someone finally recognized the potential of that building and this neighbourhood. Right on.