An Ode to Cafe Barney

When I first moved to South Granville, I was dismayed at how fancy and uppity all the restaurants seemed. Between West, Vij's, even Shabusen (all of which I love) there just didn't seem anywhere to go for a quick pint, or a cheap (don't have to change your outfit) dinner.

And then I found Cafe Barney.

It's a pub-type, restaurant bar, that is pretty busy all the time, though the clientele seems to change over the course of the day. Breakfasts are always a little crazy thanks to Barney's famed benny (they have a variety of types, served all day long). Mid-day, the place is filled with middle-aged shoppers having lunch, while in the evening, it's packed with twenty and thirty-somethings having beers.

The service is good, if a bit casual (they won't kiss your ass) and the place is clean, but if you're expecting white table cloths, go somewhere else. This place is definitely laid way back.

There's back patio seating available when the weather's good, and local artist paintings adorn the walls. A major sport inevitably plays on the TVs near the bar.

Having a neighbourhood pub is something that really can't be overestimated. And unless you live around Main and Commercial, they're a lot harder to find. Menu items at Barney run $10-$20, which is totally worth it, just for the atmosphere. And they have Strongbow on tap - a rarity in this city.

Ever been? What's your favourite thing on the menu? Mine's the burger.

Cafe Barney
975 Granville St.
(604) 731-6446

Eggs Benny image from epicurean.com.