Victoria’s CPR Steamship building gains an upscale, trendy tenant

Greater Victoria Harbour Authority inks deal to bring popular Romer's Taphouse to Inner Harbour

Romer’s Waterfront Tap Room, part of a chain that has garnered a following on the mainland, is the latest tenant for the former CPR Steamship Terminal building on Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority announced this week it had signed a sublease deal with Vancouver-based Extra Mile Hospitality Group for the 3,500-square foot space on the second level of the building. The goal is to be open by mid-summer 2013.

“Extra Mile’s fresh and innovative concept is the perfect fit for the Steamship Terminal,” harbour authority president and CEO Curtis Grad said in a media release. “The flexible restaurant/coffee-bar approach will optimize the use of space and appeal to both visitors and residents, morning, noon and night.”

Romer’s plans to take advantage of the outdoor seating area facing the harbour during warmer months. As part of its presentation it plans to feature more than 20 micro-brewed beers on tap and numerous wine options, as well as fresh baked goods and meal options spotlighting local and Island suppliers.

“We are excited about the opportunity to bring the energy and vision of today’s local farm to table food movement to the Inner Harbour in a fun and approachable way,” said Wayne Holm, co-owner of Extra Mile.

The company plans to begin renovating their space in the coming weeks. The design aims to acknowledge the historic and grand nature of the building.

The building’s anchor tenant, the Bateman Foundation, is in the midst of renovations and plans a soft opening for this spring.

The harbour authority leases the building from the Provincial Capital Commission.

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Victoria News