Blackfin Pub owners Edd and Lisa Moyes. Photo by Boomer Jerritt
Ask anyone who lives in the Comox Valley where you can enjoy a fabulous meal with a fabulous view of the Comox Marina and they are guaranteed to answer ‘The Blackfin Pub in Comox!’
The Blackfin has been locally owned and operated by Edd and Lisa Moyes since 2005, but the restaurant-style pub has a history dating back to 1989. Originally known as the Black Fin—two words not one—the ‘old’ establishment was a traditional pub. The first building (and the pub) at this location burned down in 1991 and was rebuilt. By the time the Moyes came along in 2005, ‘The Fin’ was in dire need of a facelift. When the Moyes’ were looking to purchase a restaurant/pub in the Comox Valley, a bar room with a view was at the top of their list. Despite the run-down condition of the Black Fin, the pub delivered as a prime location.
For credentials to operate a pub, Edd and Lisa brought a wealth of hospitality industry experience to the table. Edd had previously been a Vice President with the Oak Bay Marine Group and had owned a marketing company. Lisa had been a manager at the Oak Bay Marina Restaurant.
“We took possession of the pub on May 2nd, 2005, and did a massive renovation, reopening just four days later,” says Edd. “We had 35 sub-trades working inside and out and we invested $250,000 in the makeover. We rebranded as
‘The Blackfin’ and re-opened with a whole new look, new ambiance, and new menu.”
“We had some challenges initially because we had decided we would be going in a new direction for the pub,” recalls Lisa. “We wanted to be a little more upscale and elegant, with locally-sourced food, wine and beer. We were just hoping that the existing clientele would welcome the change… some did, and some didn’t. Some staff stayed, and some moved on. Change can be a challenge but we persevered and it worked.”
Some people may not realize that just as there are two sides to every story, there are also two levels to the Blackfin Pub. The walk-out lower level was extensively renovated a couple of years ago and is now available for private bookings for lunch or dinner for corporate meetings, socials, weddings, anniversaries and more. It can seat up to 100 people. Edd says the lower level actually has a better view than upstairs. You can also access the patio to walk about, inhale the ocean air, and take in the spectacular marina view.
With their location, menu, management and staff, the Blackfin today is a popular meeting place that is generously supported by the community. It has been voted as the ‘Best Patio’ and ‘Best Pub’ in the Comox Valley Record’s ‘Readers’ Choice’ Awards numerous times.
“Our entire team is locally-focused and is well connected to this thriving and growing community,” says Edd. “We support numerous charities and are represented on a variety of committees and boards.”
Since taking ownership in 2005, the Moyes’ continue to be committed to ensuring their guests experience one of the most unique oceanfront dining experiences in the Comox Valley. They ensure the restaurant maintains its appeal by annually upgrading and renovating. Guests can enjoy a West Coast-inspired menu while taking in the ever-changing view of the Comox Harbour against the backdrop of the Beaufort Mountains.
“While the business climate has evolved over the last 12 years, including changes to liquor laws and rising food costs, The Blackfin Pub has retained a committed and focused staff that has been amazing at creating long-term relationships with our loyal clientele,” says Lisa. “We look forward to many more years of success in the Comox Valley.
“The Blackfin team is very grateful to have worked with the successful business team of Tyra Lewis and Nancy Newsom at InFocus Magazine for all these years,” adds Edd and Lisa.
“In addition to InFocus advertising, Tyra has created all of our ads, menus and marketing materials. She has been amazing! While we will miss seeing their excellent publication in our community, we wish them much happiness as Nancy enjoys her retirement and both she and Tyra have more time with their families. We hope to see them both on our deck with a glass of wine in hand!”
For more information visit blackfinpub.com