Update: 4 p.m. May 1
The Boxcar announced on Instagram its closure has been put off and new lease signed.
Original Story: 2 p.m. March 30
Some sad news for fans of one of Vancouver's favourite quirky watering holes. The Boxcar revealed Tuesday the venue has been forced to close permanently in just a few short weeks following the sale of the building.
Located at 923 Main St, the Boxcar has a loyal following of cocktail, beer, and wine lovers who fill its colourful narrow bar space and, in warmer weather, its lively back patio.
The Boxcar operators call the news of the sale "heartbreaking," and say they've been given one month to wrap things up. The bar first opened in late 2014.
"We will be trying to contact the new owners to ask if we can work out any possibility of having a bit more time in our beloved bar. But chances are slim," adds The Boxcar, noting their last day of operation will likely be April 30. In a follow-up post to The Boxcar Instagram account, the bar points out they'll be every day till 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. on weekends until their very last day.
"We are shocked with how quickly this is all happening feel at a loss for words," continues The Boxcar. "Thank you all for your support over the years. The community and friendships that have been built here are more wonderful than we could have ever imagined. We love you all so much. Please come see us during our last few weeks."
The Boxcar is located in the Cobalt Hotel building, which was home to the long-closed Cobalt Cabaret. The SRO was owned by the Sahota family, whose properties the Regent and Balmoral were bought up by the City of Vancouver. (Earlier this year we learned the Balmoral's conditions are such that the only remedy is to demolish the derelict property.)
Unfortunately, the Cobalt building also houses another restaurant, Pizzeria Farina. According to Scout Magazine, the Cobalt eviction notice also names the pizza spot. We're working to speak with a rep from Pizzeria Farina to get more info about their fate.
