Way back in September we broke the news that Donnelly Hospitality Management had picked up the old Centro spot in the heart of the Granville Strip and were converting it into a new bar and lounge (with food) called Cinema Public House. Well, it’s finished now, and the great location has never looked better in my lifetime. We have the deets and shots after the jump…

Occupying one of the busiest corners in the historic Theatre Row section of the Granville entertainment district, Cinema Public House is the newest addition to the Donnelly Pub Group. A high-ceilinged foyer leads two ways – circle-cutout double doors lead to the larger restaurant & lounge side while leather-covered paneling conceals the snaking bench and ottomans of the bar area. The rooms, separated late-night by a black velvet curtain, are of a modern design, with subtle hints to the nostalgia of the Theatre Row halcyon days. A large herringbone pattern tile spans the floor, leading to walls finished with black stained and brushed granite oak. ‘Octopus’ chandeliers by De La Espada light seafoam green chairs of the main dining area, while the bar uses a mirrored drop ceiling and re-purposed desk lamps to achieve the cool, low-light atmosphere that Donnelly Pubs are known for. The lounge is open from 11am seven days a week, closing at 1am Sunday to Thursday, and 2am Friday and Saturday, while the bar side will be open from 11am – 3am seven nights a week.

148 seat venue: 20 seat patio on the Granville strip, 92 seat lounge area and 50 seat bar – the vibe is casual, edgy, gritty and punk. The space is nice enough for a first date, and yet casual enough for to grab a beer with teammates after playing hockey. Featuring indie electro rock music, Cinema will have DJ’s on Fridays and Saturdays.  Cinema is a welcome addition to the vibrant Granville strip and popular entertainment district. This is DHM Founder and President Jeff Donnelly’s third venue in the 900 block of Granville Street in downtown, along with the popular cocktail lounge the Granville Room and celebrity favourite Republic nightclub.

The menu boasts innovative pub food – simple, consistent and clean, utilizing fresh local ingredients.  The vibe is progressive, casual and cool.

With the newly appointed Executive Chef Michael Knowlson (London born, previously of Bacchus, Sequoia Grill) at the helm, Donnelly Pubs will be revamping all of their menus to offer more inventive and high quality pub fare, utilizing fresh, local and seasonal ingredients.

The Donnelly Pub Group and the Granville Room are members of the Vancouver Aquarium Ocean Wise Program, which encourages and promotes sustainable seafood options on restaurant menus, and use of regional in-season food products where possible.

By joining the Green Table Network, all DHM venues have implemented initiatives to reduce waste, to conserve water and energy, and to reduce pollutants. The Green Table programs include recycling of plastic, glass and paper products; installing energy efficient thermostats, lighting and timers; use of biodegradable chemicals and cleaning products; phasing out plastic materials and replacing them with recyclable materials; and increased staff awareness and training.

All Anticipated Restaurants