Some restaurants get all the press. Whether they’ve got a big PR budget, a star chef or a great location, some spots are simply good at getting noticed. There are, however, countless quality restos that fly under the radar. With Dineout Vancouver kicking off next week (January 24 – February 6), offering prix fixe menus at $18, $28 or $38, we thought we’d take the opportunity to feature a few of our favourite hidden gems.
Baru Latino
This South American gem serves up fresh, sustainable seafood, innovative cocktails and a Latin and B.C.-focused wine list.
The meal: Chili prawns, paella Baru, latin flan.
$28. 2535 Alma St., 604-222-9171.
Bistro 101
At the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts, taste the creations of Canada’s next top chefs. Choose wines from sommelier Tim Ellison’s finely tuned list, which recently won a Wine Press Northwest Award.
The meal: Local mussels, veal osso bucco, chocolate mousse.
$18. 1505 West 2nd Ave., 604-734-0101.
Maurya
As Vij’s has conquered the critics, Maurya has been quietly turning out impeccable Indian classics – with a light touch when it comes to butter and oil.
The meal: Dehkete jhinga (prawns), lamb madra, strawberry kulfi.
$28, 1643 West Broadway, Vancouver, (604) 742-0622
Arms Reach Bistro
Venture to Deep Cove for terrific salads, a solid selection of local wines and outstanding seafood options – not to mention a stunning ocean vista.
The meal: Bruschetta, Fraser Valley cornish hen, cinnamon biscuits with créme anglaise and pineapple.
$28, 107C-4390 Gallant Ave., 604-929-7442.
Image courtesy of bmann.
