Bartholomew’s Pub Celebrates 50 Years of Community and Cheer

Bartholomew’s Pub is gearing up to celebrate its 50th anniversary in Victoria this October, coinciding with five years since its reopening following the COVID-19 pandemic. The iconic establishment will host a series of events over a two-week period in mid-October to mark this significant milestone.

Bar manager and supervisor Kait Taylor has been with Bartholomew’s for nearly two years and expressed excitement about the upcoming celebrations. “I’ve got many ideas, but we haven’t made a big plan yet. We’ll have a couple of weeks of things to celebrate the decades,” she remarked. Taylor described the pub as a “fun little place to work,” noting its friendly staff, loyal clientele, and extensive beer selection. As the winter season approaches, she anticipates a cozy atmosphere filled with lights and warmth, enhanced by the pub’s historic charm.

The British-themed pub features rustic decor and a menu that includes traditional dishes like bangers & mash and Yorkshire puddings. Floor supervisor Keely Bayko highlighted the welcoming environment, saying, “It’s homey. You’re surrounded by familiar regulars, creating a great atmosphere.”

Bartholomew’s actively engages its patrons with weekly events. Every Sunday evening, the pub hosts live music, while traditional Irish music is featured on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. Mondays offer a ‘Happy Hour’ from 15:00 to close, where select premium spirits are sold at cost, allowing customers to explore new options. Trivia nights, wings nights, and music bingo further enhance the lively schedule, making it a hub of activity.

Taylor emphasized the pub’s dedication to quality service, stating, “Everyone can come to Bartholomew’s, whether you want a really nice cocktail or a good pint of Guinness.” The establishment draws a mix of locals and tourists, including visitors from nearby cruise ships and the DoubleTree Victoria hotel, where it is located.

Renowned for its beer selection, Bartholomew’s boasts 26 beers and one cider on tap. The pub’s most popular offerings include Dark Matter and Appleton’s cider. Furthermore, the gin selection, with over 80 options, is among the largest in British Columbia. Signature dishes such as bangers & mash and beef dip are standout items, while Sunday roasts are a crowd favorite, often running out quickly. Taylor mentioned that the roast draws in both locals and tourists alike.

The pub’s connection to its community extends beyond just food and drink. Bayko shared heartwarming stories of couples returning to celebrate anniversaries, saying, “I love when we get stories, like multiple people being like, ‘Oh, we met here 25 years ago, and we’re coming back to celebrate our anniversary.’” This sense of belonging is a defining aspect of the pub.

Reopened in 2020 under new ownership by Alderaan Hospitality Ltd., Bartholomew’s has been revitalized by executive chef Jason Clifford and director of food & beverages Morgan Watson. Taylor noted that enhancing cocktail quality was a major focus, allowing the establishment to build on its previous success and improve the overall customer experience.

The pub has introduced new initiatives such as a build-your-own gin and tonic program, where guests can select their preferred gin, tonic, and garnishes. Bayko added that the collaboration with Sheringham Distillery in Langford has also enriched their late-night offerings.

The atmosphere at Bartholomew’s is one of joy and community. Taylor invited potential visitors with a simple message: “Just come and have a good time. It’s a fun place to be.” The pub also features a charming patio, ideal for summer gatherings, equipped with ten tables and ample seating.

As Bartholomew’s approaches its 50th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and camaraderie in Victoria. For more information about upcoming events and offerings, visit their website at https://www.bartholomewspub.com/.