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The Buck & Ear Pub to close this spring, but investment in future brings new opportunity to Steveston

Published 2:29 PDT, Thu March 13, 2025
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After decades of serving the Steveston community, Joseph Richard Group (JRG) has decided to close the Buck & Year Pub this spring. This decision was not made lightly, and it comes after many years of investing in and working hard to grow the pub business. Unfortunately, the challenges of recent years—combined with ongoing economic pressures, rising operational costs, fees, and taxes—have made the current pub business model unsustainable. Nonetheless, the group involved believes in the strength of the community and is diligently exploring new opportunities to emerge from this challenging situation.
"We are incredibly grateful to the Steveston community for making The Buck & Ear such a special place for so many years," said Ryan Moreno, chief executive officer of JRG. "This pub has been more than just a business—it's been a gathering place, a home for stories, laughter, and friendships that have lasted a lifetime. While this chapter is closing, we remain committed to Steveston and to honoring the history that The Buck & Ear has been a part of."
As part of that commitment, JRG is ensuring that elements of the pub's rich history live on. After 77 years of operation, heritage photos from The Buck & Ear will be passed on to the City of Richmond. Additionally, the pub space will be transformed into additional boutique suites as part of hotel operations for Steveston Cafe & Hotel.
Regulars of The Buck & Ear will still be able to enjoy some of their favourite specials at the Steveston Cafe & Hotel next door, and the team is exploring adding a dinner offering at the café.
"We're excited to continue serving the community in new ways," said Moreno. "The new boutique suites will not only enhance the guest experience but also bring more visitors to Steveston, supporting local businesses and contributing to the vibrancy of this incredible neighborhood."
Steveston holds a special place in the heart of Joseph Richard Group, and they look forward to continuing to be part of its future, even as they say goodbye to The Buck & Ear in its current form. They hope to welcome guests back to experience the new accommodations once completed and to continue celebrating everything that makes Steveston so unique and special.