1903

The Metropolitan 
Building

811-817 GOVERNMENT STREET

The Canadian Pacific Railway’s 1903 commitment to build the elegant Empress Hotel marked the beginning of Victoria’s transformation from a supply and manufacturing hub to a renowned health and pleasure destination. Recognizing the opportunity, Joseph and Lewis Rostein commissioned their Metropolitan Building at 811-817 Government Street.

Strategically located near the Inner Harbour, the original Post Office building, and the site of the future Empress (opened in 1908), the Metropolitan Building has remained in continuous commercial use since its completion. Its five generous storefronts initially housed Betty’s Café, Montague Bridgman Fine China, and the bicycle department of Plimley’s, a local automobile retailer.

The American consulate occupied the second floor, adding to the building’s early prestige.