If you’ve walked by sustainable eatery Forage on Robson Street lately, you may have noticed the modern art gallery that was once attached is no more. You’re not imagining things, as it’s been replaced by Timber, a new gastropub specializing in two of Canada’s favourite things: beer and comfort food.

The kitchen is helmed by executive chef Chris Whittaker, also of Forage fame, who switches gears a little bit for this new venture. A quick glance at the menu reveals some interesting offerings not commonly found at local watering holes: a bison burger featuring caramelized onions, bacon, pickles and cheddar ($8); game tourtiere (meat pie) made with a lard crust, complemented by house-made ketchup ($20); bannock (flat bread) served with spicy maple and haskap berry chutney.

Beer lovers worry not, as there is a long list of local taps sold in sleeves or by the pint. To rattle off just a few being poured now, there’s The BRB English Mild Ale from Richmond, Postmark IPA from East Vancouver, and a personal favourite, the Hoyne ‘Dark Matter’ from Victoria. Wine and cocktails are available as well.

Fans of Canadiana kitsch will not be disappointed, as there’s all sorts of neat deco to admire while enjoying a meal, from the beaver in the window to the True North Strong and Free banner hanging proudly above the dining room.

The gastropub has been seating customers for a couple of months now, but on Saturday held an open house officially welcoming the public. Chef Whittaker carved a giant cut of bison to make sliders, and Townsite Brewing made the trek all the way down from Powell River, cracking open a cask of their golden blonde ale.

Timber is open Monday to Thursday from 11 to 1 a.m., Friday and Saturday 10 to 1 a.m., and Sundays 10 to 12 a.m.