A liquor-licensed restaurant and lounge with a dynamic atmosphere, That Sugar Vault offers its visitors live entertainment, a light menu and exceptional desserts at an upscale establishmenta.
“We are a community venue with food, drinks, performers and more,” says general manager Amy Sharp. “Our motto is inclusiveness and we’re here to serve up something new.”
Although it has a lounge feel, Sharp says the warm environment is appropriate for all age groups.
“It is completely legal for minors to come in,” she says, “but our licence allows us to restrict access to those under 19 for certain events, such as some of the stand-up comedy.”
Located in unit 105-4871 Joyce Avenue, That Sugar Vault opens from 4-10 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, and 4 pm to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
“We have a wide range of menu items and our kitchen is always open,” explains Sharp. “Options include raw and vegan choices and things like pulled-pork nachos; we have a variety.”
Patrons can have it both ways, by indulging in the raw food choices or trying That Sugar Vault’s signature “out-of-this-world” bacon-cinnamon bun, a charcuterie platter or an assortment of paninis.
“We have lots of nutritious, hardy and fun food, plus a variety of desserts, including whipped Samoan cheesecake,” says Sharp. “Kids love the volcano and banana splits, too.”
A variety of beverages are also available, including local products from Townsite Brewing and craft beer from Dageraad Brewing in Burnaby, a Canadian Brewing Awards and BC Beer Awards gold-medal winner.
“The cocktail culture is alive and well, and we have a tasty selection,” says Sharp.
Live entertainment is a big part of the busy schedule at That Sugar Vault, including music, comedy, tarot readings and magic shows. Upcoming events include a chocolate fondue with DJ Lalu on Saturday, February 18; a ladies’ night out with Arabella Bellydancers on Thursday, February 23; and an Oscar night on Sunday, February 26.
“We have a huge screen; it’s a fun way to watch the Oscar broadcast,” says Sharp. “We’re going to have prizes for best film-star look-alikes, too.”
Joel Fafard performs on May 27 and a Barbra Streisand night, yet to be scheduled, will feature the icon’s music and movies such as Funny Girl and A Star Is Born.
“Our events have no cover charge, but there is a suggested donation for live performers,” says Sharp.
Regular monthly events include trivia, rock and roll trivia and a wheel of fortune night, all hosted by DJ Zane Sampson, and performances by local jazz group Take 5. A schedule of events is updated regularly at thatsugarvault.com and on Facebook.
Sharp says what That Sugar Vault offers is unique to Powell River because it is different.
“We wanted another option to meet with friends and have a drink in the evening,” she says. “We’ve had so much fun decorating; people come in and say it is unlike anything in town.”
Sharp adds that the inclusive venue is for families with children, parents and grandparents, as well as singles, friends and couples of both genders.
A specific design element includes an area with couches to make the space as comfortable as possible and a VIP lounge that can be rented out for private parties.
“Atmosphere is key,” says Sharp. “The music and what we show on the projector are carefully selected.”
That Sugar Vault also has a catering endorsement on its liquor licence.
“We can be hired for events to not only sell food, but also run the bar,” explains Sharp. “It’s handy for people or organizations; this way they don’t require a special-occasion licence.”
That Sugar Vault currently holds a food-primary liquor licence, which does not allow for dancing or karaoke on the premises. In order to provide customers with those options, Sharp says pursuing a patron-participation endorsement is still the plan.
“For now, we are happy to have a venue that offers fun things to do, while people have a drink in their hand,” says Sharp.
For more information, call 604.414.4168, or go to thatsugarvault.com.
