The Original Irish Heather had a reputation of authenticity. I was a big fan of the place and I recommended it many times. I have also visited and spoken highly of some of their sister establishments, such as Salt and the Salty Tongue, to both colleagues and friends.
The New Irish Heather, however, is not good enough….or clean enough. Recent back-to-back experiences have left a bad taste in my mouth reminiscent of rancid bangers and sloppy mash. On two recent visits, over the course of more than two months, we were inundated with flies. I mean flies were EVERYWHERE in our section. During the second visit, our time and focus was spent dealing with the constant onslaught. They were relentless.
Most disconcerting though was the indifferent attitude from management/ownership. I would think that if I were a manager/owner in a competitive marketplace, I would appreciate (or at the very least acknowledge) the legitimate concerns of regular patrons. Apparently not. On the second visit, we brought our concerns to management, but received nothing more than a patronizing attitude in return. This was after waiting 20 minutes for someone to arrive. He went on to blame the problem on the bartender who didn’t wipe down the kegs enough. Seriously. I have been to some of the sketchiest bars in Vancouver and have not had to kill dozens of flies while drinking my beer. I tried to make my point (and it is a very, very simple point) a number of ways but it was obvious that he didn’t care. He dismissed us by saying “we’re working on it”.
I later sent a letter detailing our experience to ownership. That was several weeks ago and I’m still waiting for a response. There is lots of choice out there. I can’t imagine that this type of service is a good indicator of continued long-term success, but what the hell do I know.
I have had similar experiences with attitude and sense of entitlement from staff at the Irish Heather. Nice to read an honest review of an overrated pub. Their pot pies, though, are pretty good!
Seriously over-rated. Authentic? Heh.
I have had good times at the Heather. From what I remember… Usually drinking lots though…haven’t tried the food yet.
The Irish Heather is a little bit Irish. And a little more what Canadians might imagine a real Irish pub to be
Use to go there all the time when it was in the other building across the way, however the new establishment is just terrible; from the decor, to the layout, to the staff(at least the ones we encountered the night we were there)to just about everything.
There is no absolutely no atmosphere to the place and it is a mere ghost of what it use to be…
Won’t be going again!