Built by Students, For Students: The Return of the Queen’s Pub
After a nearly five-year hiatus, one of Queen’s most iconic student spaces has officially reopened its doors. On June 3rd, the Queen’s Pub welcomed the campus and Kingston communities back into a reimagined space, now known as the Queen’s Pub Restaurant and Bar. With a refreshed look, updated menu, new staff team, and a focus on student-centered service, the reopening marks a new chapter in a long-standing campus tradition.
The pub now sits proudly on the first floor of the newly revitalized John Deutsch University Centre (JDUC), with a patio overlooking University Avenue. During the summer, you’ll find it open from Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with patio service starting at 3 p.m. Come fall, the hours will extend to midnight, and in true Queen’s spirit, the venue will become student-only after 9 p.m., with the exception of student’s guests. The space has also shifted to a fully cashless system, accepting only debit and credit.
Training for the Rush: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
Before the grand reopening, AMS staff were treated to an exclusive preview of the pub on May 30th. But this wasn’t just a celebration, it was a crucial part of staff training. In the hospitality world, it’s what they call a “stress test.” This internal launch allowed new greeters, servers, and bartenders to practice handling real customer flow in a controlled setting, giving them hands-on experience ahead of opening day.
And here’s the twist: not all guests were easygoing. In fact, some AMS team members were randomly selected to pose as “difficult guests”, challenging our team with high-pressure, realistic service scenarios. These simulations helped staff strengthen their communication, problem-solving, and service recovery skills before welcoming the broader Queen’s community.
What’s New, What’s Back, and What’s Next
With the relaunch comes a new leadership structure that blends professional consistency with student vision. Permanent Staff Jordan East and Head Chef Rick Doucett are leading the operational side, while Student Head Manager Greyson Martyn (Eng ’25) ensures that the pub remains grounded in the student experience.
The new menu strikes a balance between nostalgia and innovation, with returning favourites like the “Original Honey G” wrap alongside fresh new offerings and expanded drink options, including mocktails and a full selection of cocktails and shots. While the pub is licensed, food remains the top priority, and staff are Smart Serve certified to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Financially Sustainable, Student-Focused
The pub is part of the AMS’s broader commitment to operating financially sustainable services. While the goal isn’t profit, it is stability, ensuring beloved student-run spaces like QPR can thrive without draining student resources. To support that goal, the AMS has brought on the two permanent staff mentioned earlier, while maintaining equal leadership power with student management, ensuring the student voice stays front and center.
Welcome Back
The Queen’s Pub isn’t just a place to eat and grab a drink—it’s a space to connect, unwind, and build community. Whether you’re an alum returning to a beloved haunt or a first-year discovering the pub for the first time, QPR is ready to welcome you back.
So come by, grab a bite, and be part of the new chapter of a Queen’s legacy.
For any questions, concerns, or media inquiries, please contact Mae Sacamay, Director of Communications, at . We’re here to help.