Jolly Alderman

Even though the Alderman has been closed for over 4-​years, I feel compelled to write a proper review of this once proud institution.
When I say «proud institution», make no mistake: this place was a bit dingy, had a tap list that was merely acceptable at the time (and probably awful by today’s standards), and was pretty unremarkable.
The Jolly Alderman was a venue where you could come, order at the back bar (because there was either limited or no table service), drink a beer or highball (note: highball, not «cocktail»), not order food or have anyone else order food (unless hot nuts count as food), consume said beverage in relative peace, and leave. It was not a lounge or gastropub or night club and unlike the Brickhouse, it also didn’t smell like fish tanks that need cleaning.
It was the type of bar that exists in almost any civilized locale in N. America in fairly great numbers, but is pretty much an endangered species in Vancouver. And for that, it deserves a proper eulogy.
RIP, friend.

I’m not sure what made this place so jolly. it’s now closed for asbestos treatment.