OUR STORY

---

Happy Jack’s Restaurant + Bar was founded in 2017 in the Northern B.C. community of Houston, where our story truly began. Taking inspiration from a long-standing local establishment originally opened in 1985, we reimagined the space with a focus on elevated comfort food, approachable service, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.

Our years in the Bulkley Valley shaped the foundation of our brand — a commitment to genuine hospitality, consistency, and connection with the community we serve. The people of Northern B.C. influenced our culture deeply: hardworking, down-to-earth, and always ready to lend a hand.

That Northern spirit remains at the heart of Happy Jack’s today. It continues to guide our approach as we grow across British Columbia, bringing the same values of warmth, authenticity, and pride in local connection to every new location.

Happy Jack’s Parksville opened its doors after recognizing the community’s growing reputation as one of Vancouver Island’s most vibrant coastal destinations. The opportunity to transform a long-vacant landmark property into a warm, welcoming restaurant aligned perfectly with our vision of creating memorable dining experiences built on genuine hospitality and local connection.

The extensive restoration and renovation of the space allowed us to bring a fresh, modern take on the classic burger joint to the Oceanside region. Every design choice, menu detail, and operational element was developed with care to reflect the values that define Happy Jack’s — approachable service, quality ingredients, and a comfortable atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down and enjoy.

Since opening, Parksville has become an integral part of our identity as a locally owned and operated B.C. brand. The community’s support has been outstanding, and we’re proud to call the Island home as we continue to grow and share our hospitality across the province.

Sometimes life brings you right back to where it all began - but with a whole new story to tell. Back in 2012, we opened and operated our first restaurant for a different brand at the same location - long before Happy Jack's was even an idea. Those early days were where our passion for hospitality first took shape. The lessons learned, the friendships built, and the pride of serving the local community all became part of the foundation that would one day inspire us to create our own brand. 

Years later, after building a life and a new restaurant on Vancouver Island, we saw the opportunity to bring everything we've learned back to where it all began - this time, as Happy Jack's, in the very same space. 

We are honoured to once again operate on the traditional, unceded territory of the Squiala First Nation, whose community and stewardship of the land continue to inspire respect and connection.

The new Chilliwack location combines the same heart and flavour that guests have come to love with the warmth and familiarity of the Fraser Valley. It's more than just opening another restaurant - it's returning to our roots, reconnecting with a community that helped shape our journey, and proudly putting our own name above the door.

At Happy Jack’s, our mission is simple: to provide an exceptional dining experience built on genuine service, welcoming atmosphere, and quality food made with care. Every detail — from the first greeting to the last bite — matters. Our goal is to ensure every guest leaves feeling valued, satisfied, and eager to return.

We believe great hospitality begins with people who care. Our team is encouraged to bring personality to their service — to be friendly, authentic, and attentive without formality. Whether it’s a warm welcome at the door, a thoughtful conversation during your meal, or a sincere thank-you when you leave, our staff are here to create a connection as much as a meal.

Every Happy Jack’s location reflects our modern take on the classic burger joint. Lighting, music, layout, and décor are chosen with intention — to create spaces that feel relaxed yet refined, comfortable yet full of energy. We partner with talented local craftspeople and suppliers to help shape the design and atmosphere unique to each community we call home.

The heart of what we do, of course, is the food. Our menus feature locally inspired comfort dishes made from fresh ingredients, supporting nearby farms and producers whenever possible. We showcase B.C. craft beers and regional wines, emphasizing flavours that celebrate where we live. Each meal is prepared with care and consistency, staying true to our belief that simple food, done exceptionally well, never goes out of style.

Happy Jack’s is built on a commitment to community, quality, and genuine hospitality. Whether you visit us on Vancouver Island or in the Fraser Valley, you’ll find the same goal guiding everything we do — to make every guest feel at home and every visit something worth remembering.

Cheers,

Happy Jack's