Brand New Restaurant Opens in Burlington

Published October 2, 2017 at 7:50 pm

You know how the old saying goes — when one pub closes, another one opens.

In this case, the closure of the long-standing Purple Heather Pub (born in Nov. 2010) has led to the opening of 5 West Brewpub & Kitchen.

“We decided to take the craft route so we’ve built a microbrewery,” said owner Doug Birrell, adding they “wanted to change things up.”

The Purple Heather began as a gastropub but the concept didn’t exactly take off in the city, said Birrell, so they dropped ‘gastro’ from the name.

But that was then and now there are hipsters, who’ll be happy to hear craft brew is front and centre.

Six to eight signature beers are on the menu, paired with craft-inspired eats.

“it’s been working very well for us,” Birrell said.

The rejuvenation of sorts took place over the summer — July 6 to be exact.

As for the name, ‘5 West’ is a geographical nod since the resto is at Dundas St. and Walkers Line.

It’s billing itself as north Burlington’s first brewpub and in terms of libations, the resto boasts a healthy pour list.

As far as suds go, the offerings are ample (as they should be).

Craft beer aficionados can sip on 5 West’s Honey Lager and Blonde – both draft.

More options will be on tap (literally) as the brewery becomes fully operation, said Birrell.

Offerings from local craft breweries and cider houses include Karma Citra IPA, Mythology, Grapefruit Radler, Naughty Neighbour, and Raspberry Uber.

Then there are classics such as Guinness, Stella Artois, and the ‘dad’ bod choice: Coors Light.

When you drink you must eat (or is it the other way around?!) … either way, the resto offers up plenty of appetizers such as calamari, wings, Beer-Battered Cauliflower, a Local Mushroom Dip, charcuterie board, edamame, and House Candied Double-Smoked Bacon.

Soups include a Wicked Beer & Cheddar variety with the house IPA and Thai chilis, while salads include a Spinach & Kale variety.

There’s a small plates/snacks menu with salty snacks such as kettle chips and sweet potato fries.

A variety of pizzas such as Melon and Prosciutto, Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, and Meat Lovers are also on the menu.

Speaking of meat, “we purchased a smoker,” said Birrell.

Naturally, the Smoked Brisket Sandwich and 1/2 Smoked Chicken are top-sellers so far (alongside the Fish and Chips

and burgers).

It’ll be interesting to see how the new resto fulfills the ever-growing demand for hot hipster spots in Halton.

Photos courtesy of 5 West

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