In the heart of District 1881, a little slice of Europe hides behind the doors of The Offy. With a fun and energetic atmosphere and delicious craft cocktails paired with amazing European-inspired food, this bistro will become one of your new favourite hangout spots this summer.
We recently met up with Hania, the owner of The Offy, and talked all about her journey of owning a restaurant, and her plans on what’s to come next!
Introduce yourself! Tell us about you and what you do!
Hello – I’m Hania, the owner of The Offy! I was born in Poland. I love to eat, I love meeting new people, and I love traveling.
Where did the Offy’s journey start? What was the vision?
The Offy’s journey started percolating in my mind at age 18. I was working at my first restaurant job; an Italian restaurant called Anduccis, owned by a gentleman named, Andy. I loved everything about Anduccis; the fast-paced atmosphere, the people, the food – I was hooked.
After working in the restaurant industry for over 20 years, I finally ripped the bandaid off and opened The Offy doors! European-inspired, The Offy, is a brunch cafe during the day and a dinner cocktail bar at night. We are all about the fun vibes at The Offy!
What does the name ‘Offy’ mean? Where did the idea come from?
The Offy has two meanings:
- “Off Sales” – a British slang word for a shop, or a counter in a pub or hotel, where alcoholic drinks are sold for consumption elsewhere. P.S. Watch out for more ‘Off Sales’ options coming down the pipeline for The Offy!
- “Oh For Fu*k Yeah!” – we are all about being fun and approachable – we do not take ourselves too seriously.
What can people expect when they visit the Offy?
When guests visit The Offy, they can expect a unique cozy atmosphere, amazing European-inspired food, craft cocktails, and a fun vibe!
Wine or cocktail?
A cocktail to start, wine with Dinner. The best of both worlds!
If you had to choose one item from your menu to eat for the rest of your life, what would you choose?
Definitely the Polish Farmer’s Sausage. I love authentic Polish sausage, and ours is the best out there!
Where did your passion for owning a restaurant come from?
I would have to say it was my time spent working at Anducci’s! Also, in a way, it’s always been in my blood… I love everything about owning a restaurant, from the atmosphere to the food!
What drew you to Downtown Chilliwack?
District 1881 is an amazing development – it reminds me of Europe. It was meant to be for a European-inspired restaurant.
What makes the Offy unique?
Everything. The concept, the food, the cocktails, the design elements. But most importantly, the staff. There is no one like our Offy family.
Sweet or Savoury?
Savoury. All the way.
When you’re not at the Offy, where can we find you?
Either getting a coffee at Smoking Gun, having wine and oysters at Bow and Stern, or getting a blow dry and a cocktail at Cros. Studios.
What are a few of your fave spots in Downtown Chilliwack?
So many places, it’s hard to pick! Smoking Gun and Bow and Stern are my favorites to grab something to eat. I also really love to hang out at Cros. Studios!
What’s next for the Offy?
The world is our Oyster….
Anything else you’d like to share?
How much time do we have?
Whether you’re going for a delicious Sunday brunch on the patio, or for cocktails with friends during happy hour, The Offy is an amazing place that transports you into the streets of Europe with staff that makes you feel like family. Come for a visit at 45925 Thunderbird Lane or check them out online at theoffybistro.com.
