Shamrock Storehouse is known for it cosy Irish neighborhood vibes.
A new pub is opening its doors just hours before Canada hosts Switzerland in a key World Cup group-stage match.
Located at 837 Beatty St., the fourth location of Shamrock Storehouse sits just steps away from BC Place, with its current entrance (from the alley) tucked off Smithe between Cambie and Beatty streets.
“The stadium is about 100 feet away, and the venue is just about 50 feet away from the Terry Fox statue, making it one of the most coveted spots in the city during the tournament,” says Shamrock founder William Donnellan.
“We expect to have our licence issued between 9 and 10 a.m. tomorrow and then open at 11 a.m. for the greatest game Canada has ever played,” he says.
The opening follows months of delays that Donnellan says were out of the company’s control, prompting staff to rush to complete construction and approvals in recent weeks.
Donnellan credits the City of Vancouver, his contractor IRL Construction, project consultants and trade partners for helping bring the venue across the finish line.
“The City of Vancouver was exceptional to deal with throughout the whole process,” he says.
Wednesday’s crowds will surpass Canada-Qatar match, pub owner says
The new location will offer seating for 60 guests indoors and 30 more on its patio.
Donnellan expects Wednesday’s crowds to surpass those seen during Canada’s previous World Cup match against Qatar.
He says he’s never been so excited: “This is the largest sporting event in the world. We are on the world stage.”
For Shamrock Storehouse, known for its Irish hospitality and growing presence across the city, opening during one of Vancouver’s busiest and most significant days is a milestone moment.
The pub chain has previously stated plans to expand aggressively across Canada through franchising following the World Cup, making the downtown opening a key step in its long-term growth strategy, Donnellan says.