Veteran bartender, Colin Turner, joins the team at East of Main Cafe as bar manager. With almost two decades of cocktail experience, Turner delivers a level of sophistication that complements the service goals of East of Main. “Colin is an incredible addition to our team,” said proprietor Maureen Webb. “He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and his acting roots speak to our dedication to Project Limelight Society – he is a perfect fit.”
Turner spent 4 years studying acting and directing at the Gastown Actors’ Studio. Although his career has been driven by hospitality, he is still captivated by performance. As all the proceeds from East of Main Cafe are donated to Project Limelight Society, a free performing arts program for kids from the Downtown Eastside, he has found the ideal venue to feed his two passions. Simply called “Barguy” by his colleagues, Turner is an avid contributor to Vancouver’s outstanding bartending community. He is an active director of the Canadian Professional Bartenders Association and spent the last six years of his career as Bar Manager at the award-winning Cin Cin Restaurant.
“It’s a great time to be a bartender in Vancouver,” said Turner. “ I am thrilled to be a part of moving our cocktail culture forward, and East of Main Cafe will provide a forum for me to mentor young bartenders within the community.”
As bar manager, Turner will create and maintain a cocktail program that is approachable and innovative, oversee the hiring and training of bar staff and is responsible for inventory and controlling liquor cost. He will work alongside Proprietor and Manager Donalda Weaver to ensure service standards are high and guests are well taken care of.
About East of Main Cafe:
Nestled on the border of historic Chinatown and Strathcona, the East of Main Cafe impresses instantly with high ceilings and original works prominently featuring images of the Downtown East Side of Vancouver. While open and airy, the room invites with plenty of comfortable nooks to settle in to. This vibrant cocktail spot showcases an array of hand-crafted classics and original creations utilizing ingredients that complement the cuisine. Tapas are prevalent with a few thoughtful entrees and sandwiches (available at lunch) rounding out the menu, which is heavily influenced by flavours of the Mediterranean. All profits from this arts community hub benefit Project Limelight – a free performing arts program available to children from the DTES. East of Main Cafe is located at 223 East Georgia St., open from 11am until 10pm, Monday through Thursday and 11am – 11pm Friday and Saturday (closed Sunday). Visit www.eastofmaincafe.com or call 604 899 2777 for more information.
