Busy downtown professionals can delight at the arrival of the Donnelly Group’s latest addition to their Public House mix. The Blackbird opened the doors to its stunningly appointed space for a private media and VIP launch late last week – and we’re pretty sure it’ll become a go-to YVR watering-hole in no time.
With a massive multi-floor space that clocks in at around 8,000 square feet, there is an abundance of room to unwind after a long day at the office. A central location in downtown Vancouver’s central business district all but guarantees that Blackbird will be packed with the savvy suit crowd after the markets close. We had the chance to score a sneak peek late last week (the paint had barely dried) and were, what’s the word? … Impressed.
For starters, there is a wickedly cool diner-style vibe crossed with a classic lounge feel throughout. Large screens pepper the walls on both floors and we imagine that’ll be a big draw for sports fans of all sorts. Upstairs, you’ll find a good selection of billiard tables (we spotted a pretty massive snooker table), as well as a Scotch bar (said to feature 75 kinds for starters). The perfect place to land after a tough day of trading? Yes! There are plush booths throughout, cocktail seating and a large communal table – as well as a super stylish bar that channels a hint of the Shining’s freakish Gold Bar at the Outlook Hotel.
Live entertainment will likely take center-stage, and we’re told DJs will make regular appearances in the hopes of getting the post-work crowd to linger a little later into the night.
Adding to the unique offerings of The Blackbird (beyond the classic cocktail list and 25+ craft beers on tap) is the inclusion of an adjacent barbershop (run by award winning stylist Ian Daburn). We snuck in a quick tour at last week’s preview to check it out for ourselves – wow. The Donnelly Group has outdone themselves here, we gotta say. Classic movie theatre seating has been sourced, as have old-school barber chairs, fixtures and more.
Find yourself a seat at Blackbird soon – located at 905 Dunsmuir. For more info about the upcoming official opening, follow them on Twitter for updates here.
