Operating Partners Mike Rose, Teddy Wilkie and Justin Mensah-Coker outside the restored Navvy Jack House. Photo by Navvy House

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It’s not every day that a building with more than a century’s worth of history gets a second act, let alone as a fresh new bar and restaurant concept.

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The concept will operate out of the North Shore’s oldest standing home; today, it sits between two landmarks named after former owners — Navvy Jack Point and John Lawson Park.

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The structure was built in 1873 by John “Navvy Jack” Thomas, who ran Burrard Inlet’s first ferry and had a gravel business. Later, the house became home to the “father of West Vancouver,” John Lawson. He ran the community’s first post office and general store from the space.

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Waterfront view at the restored Navvy Jack House. Photo by Navvy House

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The District of West Vancouver and the Navvy Jack Society set out to save the building, and Carrera Management Corporation stepped in to fund and lead its restoration. Earlier this year, the district gave the house permanent heritage status.

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“The history of this house is inspiring. It’s a space that has always been a place where the community gathers,” said Teddy Wilkie, operating partner. “We want to honour the history of community, connection and craftsmanship in this location and write our own chapter. We hope to intertwine the pillars of this house into our story.”

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Navvy Jack’s House as it appeared on the wedding day of John Lawson’s daughter Elizabeth C. Lawson to William John Pitman on Dec. 31, 1914. Photo by West Vancouver Memorial Library

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Inside the Navvy Jack House during restoration. Photo by Navvy House

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In terms of what to expect from the menu, the team shares the “seasons and the shoreline” will be the North Stars for the restaurant. West Vancouver native and executive chef and operating partner Mike Rose is at the helm of the culinary plans here. We’re told to expect Pacific and Atlantic coastal traditions and unfussy, bold and natural flavours for both daytime and evening dining.

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“I want to create a food program with rotating seasonal dishes that keeps people coming back for more,” says Rose. “The menu is going to bring familiar favourites, fresh seafood, and great cuts of meat cooked with real care and intention.”

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For the space itself, think modern design with original heritage details, and naturally, incredible views of the Burrard Inlet.

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The patio is coming along at Navvy House. Photo by Navvy House

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“Having the chance to take historic spaces and bring new life to them is something that is truly special,” says Justin Mensah-Coker, operating partner. “We had the chance to do something similar by creating Prophecy in the historic Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and we are excited about the opportunity to bring a new chapter to the historically rich Navvy Jack House.”

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With such a coveted location and a track record of reviving heritage buildings, there’s little doubt Navvy House will be a welcome addition to the North Shore. Check back for opening details.

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At Home Hospitality team on site as construction nears completion. Photo by Navvy House

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Where: 1768 Argyle Ave., West Vancouver

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