Simon Fraser University hopes the rebirth of the old Highland Pub will reenergize the community on Burnaby Mountain.
SFU has teamed up with the Joseph Richard Group to reopen the pub. Dubbed The Study, the hope is that it’ll become a popular hangout for everyone on the mountain, according to Mark McLaughlin, chief commercial services officer.
“We really want that place to have a great vibe, because it adds vitality and excitement to the heart of the campus,” he told the NOW.
Located in the Maggie Benston Centre at the centre of the campus, The Study’s focus will be to provide good food and a warm atmosphere. Renovations started in June and are well on their way to being complete before the new year, according to McLaughlin.
The old Highlands Pub, which was run by students, shut down more than a year ago, before the university took over the space, according to McLaughlin.
“We made a commitment to the students and student society that we would reinvigorate the space, reenergize the space,” he added.
The university chose the Joseph Richard Group because of its commitment to the community and for its food, McLaughlin said.
“This isn’t a brew pub. It’s not about the beer, it’s not a craft brewery, it’s very much food focused to try and create that social space where students, faculty, everybody can hang out and have a good time together,” he added. “It’s not just for the campus, it’s for the whole community. … We expect it’ll be a spot for them to come and congregate and hang out.”
