Our Story
We believe shared experiences are at the heart of every community. Moments Hospitality is our love letter to BC.
From the welcoming ambiance to our thoughtful approach to service, we celebrate the land and sea that inspire our menus and the people who bring our spaces to life.
Built by Locals
2017 – Water Street Cafe
A Vancouver landmark since 1988, Water St. Cafe entered a new chapter when Eli Brennan and Culinary Director Alan Tse took ownership of the historic Gastown space, joined by General Manager Sandy Grant. Honouring its legacy while evolving the experience, the restaurant offers classic Italian cuisine with West Coast influence, paired with an award-winning, BC-focused wine and beverage program.
2019 – 2nd Floor Gastown
Opened in 2019 above Water St. Cafe, 2nd Floor Gastown became an intimate live-music venue celebrating local talent, food, and award-winning drinks. With the addition of Kaitlyn Brennan as Marketing and Communications Manager, the venue has grown into one of Vancouver’s most sought-after music rooms and a proud Vancouver International Jazz Festival partner.
2021 – Qualicum Beach Cafe
The team opens Qualicum Beach Cafe, a seaside hub for locals and travellers, with Chef Todd Bright bringing culinary expertise and community spirit.
2023 – Nanoose bay cafe
Moments Hospitality opens Nanoose Bay Cafe at Fairwinds Landing, bringing together a full-service restaurant, coffee shop, and market under one roof, while also taking on management of the Fairwinds Residences, with Lynsee Yee joining as Recruitment & Nanoose Bay Operations Manager.
2023 – Deez Bar & Grill
The team acquires Deez Bar & Grill, a beloved local spot in Qualicum Beach, preserving its welcoming spirit while bringing their commitment to community and hospitality.
2025 – A HOSPITALITY COLLECTIVE
Moments evolves into community building and formalizes as Moments Hospitality Collective, grounded in community, and a love for BC.
2025 – Greenview taphouse opens
The team opens Greenview Taphouse at Fairwinds Golf Course, building a more casual concept where craft beer, stone-oven pizza, and relaxed hospitality bring people together.
Our Values
How We Define Great Hospitality
Honesty & Trust
True Guest Connection
Guiding Hospitality
One Team, One Goal
Memory Moments
Our Community
Our Commitment to Giving Back and Supporting Our Communities
From local initiatives to exciting happenings, our events are a great way to support and engage with our local community.
Whether partnering with local suppliers who prioritize sustainable practices or supporting fundraising initiatives for community organizations, we focus on causes that make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. All requests for charitable support or community event involvement are coordinated through our head office marketing team to ensure our efforts create the greatest possible impact.
Beyond Hospitality
Our team is proud to be involved in ventures that celebrate community and culture.
Our Team
Eli Brennan is the founder and operating partner of Moments Hospitality, guided by the belief that great food and genuine hospitality strengthen the fabric of local communities. Since purchasing Water Street Cafe in 2017, he has grown the collective with a steady, people-led approach grounded in consistency, care, and long-term vision. Eli is focused on building places that feel welcoming, restaurants guests return to again and again.
Alan Tse is co-founder Water St. Cafe and Qualicum Beach Cafe and Culinary Director. Bringing decades of experience and a refined, ingredient driven approach to the these kitchens. As the guiding culinary voice behind Water St. Cafe, 2nd Floor Gastown, and Qualicum Beach Cafe, Alan balances classic technique with West
Sandy Grant is General Manager and Operating Partner at Water St. Cafe and 2nd Floor Gastown, where she leads the team in delivering warm, attentive service at one of Vancouver’s most cherished dining destinations. With a focus on thoughtful hospitality, strong guest connection, and attention to detail, Sandy helps ensure every visit feels welcoming and memorable. Her leadership plays an integral role in upholding the restaurant’s reputation for quality, care, and community-centric experiences.
Kaitlyn Brennan is an integral part of the Moments family, supporting all locations through marketing, social media, community initiatives, and administrative leadership. After moving to Vancouver Island in 2020, her role has grown alongside the business, shaped by a strong belief in community and connection. Kaitlyn is passionate about creating welcoming spaces where people can gather, share experiences, and feel at home.
Todd Bright began his culinary career in Australia before travelling through Europe and eventually settling in British Columbia, drawn by the landscape, people, and strong sense of community. Since moving to Vancouver Island in 2021 to open Qualicum Beach Cafe, Todd has helped grow Moments’ Island presence and now serves as Regional Chef and Operating Partner. His approach centres on collaboration, thoughtful hospitality, and creating welcoming spaces where communities can connect.
Lynsee is a hospitality professional with roots in the luxury hotel world, having grown up within Fairmont and built her career across food and beverage leadership roles on Vancouver Island. From restaurant management to directing event operations, she brings a people-first approach to every experience. Hospitality is at the core of who she is, and she’s driven by creating welcoming spaces for both guests and teams.