We work in two directions – to show the original taste of fish and seafood with minimal processing. And in combination with different sauces, products and recipes from different cuisines of the world.
The main and indisputable principle of the restaurant is to maintain impeccable quality for each product.
When our compatriot moves to Canada, the first thing he does is take the whole family to a restaurant to celebrate the joyous occasion. But then he runs into some problems. And the name of these problems is Canadian restaurants.
Restaurants in Canada are not the kind of places that immigrants from CIS countries are used to. If for a native from the countries of the former USSR a restaurant was a portal to another world, a place where people could spend time at their pleasure, in Canada these places have long lost any other meanings and functions except for satisfying hunger in the fastest and most convenient way.
It can be very difficult for immigrants to get used to the fact that the interiors of an establishment do not match the cuisine, and the cuisine in such establishments is usually fantastic. Moreover, no one often pays attention to the interior and furnishings of a restaurant in Canada at all: neither visitors nor owners.
Nevertheless, the catering industry in the country is huge – according to Statistics Canada, in 2018 the market turnover was $65 billion CAD – that’s as much as 4% of the national GDP. And the industry employs about 1.5 million people! So how is it that such a popular and profitable business is in no hurry to invest in luxury halls, showcases and other designer decorations?
The answer is simple – no one needs it. Canadians value great food and pay almost no attention to the furnishings. That’s why most simple restaurants here don’t even have wooden furniture: tables and chairs are all plastic. And this, of course, invariably puts new immigrants on the spot.
Another feature of most Canadian restaurants is the absence of any kind of dress code. And it’s not just about the rules of this or that establishment – Canadians themselves are not inclined to dress up to go to a restaurant. So, next to your well-dressed family celebrating immigration, a crane operator in overalls can have a quiet lunch – and no one will be embarrassed by his lack of patent leather shoes.
That’s because the main thing for Canadians is not to “have a hearty meal,” but to have a delicious and quick lunch/dinner and go about their business. And this functionality is reflected in the many cafeterias located in stores or supermarkets, food courts and other chain restaurants with fast food – Canadians are used to eating “without the frills,” and not even necessarily sitting at the table!
Yes, yes, another culture shock awaits immigrants when they notice that Canadians are not at all shy about eating on the go. Sitting on public transportation, leaning against a fence, or strolling along the sidewalk, Canadians don’t care where they eat their sandwich or noodles out of a box.
The simple (even utilitarian!) attitude of Canadians to food is also demonstrated by the fact that in Canada it is universally accepted to take away the half-eaten dishes. And if somewhere in the prudish Europe the waiters might give you a wry look after such a request, here they are more likely to offer to put the food into a container themselves. Or even fold it without asking!
But it would be wrong to say that there are no expensive and expensive restaurants in Canada at all: there are, but the key word here is expensive. To get the level of design, service and comfort that you are accustomed to in the former Soviet Union, you have to pay much more than you would want.
If in a typical family restaurant for dinner you will pay 25-35 CAD (+ tip of 10% and taxes are not included in the price), the “familiar” to the post-Soviet eye institution with a refined interior, sophisticated waiters and no crane operators in overalls will cost you CA$100 per person, plus larger tips (15-20%) and taxes. And you will have to book a table in advance.
Vancouver has a wide variety of haute cuisine restaurants, and many are worthy of the title “best. Our list includes unique establishments that have won high awards and many positive guest reviews. We’ve included restaurants where you can sample Canadian cuisine.
Classic Canadian cuisine in a modern interpretation, cozy atmosphere, live music – ARC restaurant is considered one of the best in Vancouver not without reason. Its windows offer a magnificent view of the west coast. The curved space of the restaurant allows you to be seated so that nobody disturbs you. If you wish, you can sit behind the counter at ARC where the chef creates real culinary masterpieces right in front of your eyes.
It’s almost impossible to get in without a reservation – the place is always full. Blue Water Cafe is officially recognized as the best seafood restaurant in Vancouver. National fish cuisine, local products of perfect quality, one of the most respected chefs. Gastronomic delight is guaranteed. The rich wine list and pleasant atmosphere will supplement a good evening.
Seasons in the Park, Vancouver’s unique restaurant, overlooks the greenery of Queen Elizabeth Park. It offers delicious Canadian classics with a modern twist. The restaurant’s chef has cooked for Hollywood stars and royalty – his talent is undeniable. Work up an appetite in Vancouver’s most beautiful park and be sure to stop in for lunch or plan an unforgettable romantic dinner here.
Bacchus has by far the best selection of wines in Vancouver. Professional sommeliers will tell you which ones will enhance your chosen dishes. The lounge is perfect for a business or friendly meeting over a glass of wine. And the elite gourmet restaurant offers a wide selection of Canadian and international cuisine.
Black+Blue is breaking all steak records in Vancouver. It’s all thanks to its modern approach to cooking and excellent farm-raised meat. This restaurant stands out from any classic steakhouse. Black+Blue is Vancouver’s largest rooftop lounge – the views of the city are spectacular. Inside, the place is just as good: leather chairs, black and gold color scheme, stone and wood in the interior create a unique atmosphere.
The main characters of the festival will be the best Canadian products:
Zitouni Abdessattar, the brand-chef of La Marée restaurants, who has many years of experience in the best gastronomic establishments of Canada, prepared for the festival a special author’s menu, developed on the basis of Canadian products. The Canadian ambassador chose the wine from La Marée’s wine list, which, by the way, has an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine.
Among the highlights of the festival menu:
For a sweet treat, you’ll have a recipe with maple syrup and blueberries.
In the end, you’re likely to go to a simple medium-sized Canadian restaurant with plastic tables and chairs, eat a fine meal, and think – maybe there’s something to this.