The Watson, located right in the heart of Mount Pleasant on Main Street, strikes the perfect balance that we’re all looking for from our neighbourhood bar. It’s welcoming and familiar, yet every time you stop by you’re taken on an incredible journey that comes from the vibes, the food, and the cocktail forward menu. From the moment you step inside, everything about The Watson invites patrons to relax, enjoy, and stay a while.

A Collaborative Vision

Team Pacific worked closely alongside the owner, Michael Gayman of Bartholomew Bar, and designer Erica Colpitts to make sure The Watson was constructed to match the vision they had for the Main Street bar. With inspiration being pulled from Victorian era moodiness, New York bar vibes, and a menu that would reflect the best in cocktails and food, our job was to bring it all together into the perfect backdrop for the guest experience. As Erica puts it, “We wanted to create a space that felt both intimate and inviting—somewhere people would want to linger.”

The Showstopper: The Main Bar

At the heart of the room is the main bar. Being a cocktail-forward restaurant, this is where the action really takes place. The Shop at Pacific brought Erica’s vision to life with their design, construction, and configuration of the grand bar. With the soaring ceilings, the bar’s size and scale were important to fill the space yet maintain the intentional, intimate feeling. The lighting within the bar creates an enchanting glow, highlighting the intricate details of the woodwork and inviting guests to lean in closer. As Erica says,“We aimed to strike a balance between functionality and atmosphere, making sure the bar remained the centerpiece without overshadowing the rest of the design.”

Moodiness and Materials

The choice of materials throughout The Watson plays a significant role in its overall vibe. Dark woods, plush seating, and textured surfaces contribute to the bar’s inviting yet sophisticated atmosphere. Each element was carefully selected to complement the others, creating a cohesive design that feels both modern and timeless.

The overall moodiness of the space encourages conversation and connection. With low lighting and thoughtful layout, patrons can find their own little nook to enjoy a quiet drink or share a laugh with friends. “We wanted to create a space where people felt comfortable being themselves,” says the owner. “Every detail, from the bar to the seating, was designed with that in mind.”

Final Thoughts

The Watson cocktail bar is now open in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. Be sure to stop by to check it out next time you’re in the ‘hood, or make it your destination for your next date night/night out with friends/Tuesday night cocktail hour. Whatever the occasion, The Watson has the perfect place for you to celebrate every one of life’s big or small moments.