Irish Times Pub Wins Best Irish Pub in North America
Victoria’s Irish Times Pub was voted Best Irish Pub in North America in 2017. That follows up on previously winning Best Irish Pub Outside of Ireland in 2015 by The Irish Times Newspaper and best pub in the city eight times since 2006 by the people of Victoria.
Irish Times is a pub that prides itself on exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere. Our long-time staff, some of who have been here since our doors opened in 2004, will welcome you with a friendly greeting and a pint of Guinness upon arrival. We embrace the Irish culture with “Food for the Body”, “Drink for the Spirit” and “Music for the Soul”. With 172 seats spread over two floors, we offer space for large and small gatherings along with two separate patios perfect for people watching. Patrons can sneak away into one of our snugs or belly up to the expansive bar surrounded by 44 local and imported draught and cider taps, as well as the largest Irish whiskey selection in Canada!
Our beautiful building was erected in 1894 by Sir Francis Rattenbury and was originally home to the Bank of Montreal. It was Rattenbury’s first design in the chateau-style stone work, which he employed again 10 years later in his design of the iconic Empress Hotel on Victoria’s picturesque waterfront. Today, within our cozy walls, you will discover fires crackling, rich dark wood, Victorian-etched glass doors and windows, shining gold chandeliers, and a fascinating collection of Irish memorabilia.
The traditions of Ireland have been extended to our menu, which has been developed by the philosophy of “Food for the Body”, offering hearty and comforting Irish classics like Bangers and Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, and our famous Irish Stew complete with house-made soda bread.
Enjoy a “Drink for the Spirit” with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness or savour Victoria’s best Irish coffee made with warmed Tullamore Dew and fresh whipped cream.
“Music for the Soul,” is performed live, fills our pub, extending onto Government Street daily, and ranges from traditional Celtic to West Coast Celtic tunes. Talented local performers as well as some well-known Irish musicians take our stage nightly at 9 pm and during the afternoon on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Our warm ways extend well beyond our historic stone walls. By partnering with our local Odd Fellows chapter we are able to give back to the community we live, work and play in.
Come for the Guinness, stay for the Craic.