In response to B.C.’s tough new drinking and driving laws, one popular restaurant has launched a “low-alcohol” menu that includes options like half-shot cocktails and beer and wine with lower levels of alcohol.
Cactus Club Cafe introduced the new menu options at its North Burnaby location on Friday and today will roll it out in five other suburban locations, including Coquitlam, Market Crossing (Burnaby) and Park Royal.
“Based on customer feedback, it could potentially go to all B.C. locations,” said Sam Zavari, Cactus’ bar operations manager.
Ian Tostenson, president and CEO of the B.C. Restaurant and Foodservices Association, said restaurants, anecdotally, have seen a 10 to 20 per cent reduction in sales since B.C.’s new drinking and driving legislation came into effect on Sept. 20.
“You’re not seeing the second glass of wine,” Tostenson said. “You’re seeing ‘a’ glass of wine. And that’s having an impact.”
He said the decrease in sales is amplified in suburban areas where people are more likely to drive to a restaurant.
