There are way too many restaurants that I would like to try, but my brain is only so big to remember them all. This list is both for me and for you dear readers. I would like to share it with you along with my first impression of the restaurants. My view is obviously a biased one. I like restaurant that has an edge and a personality. I appreciate classic dishes that are done right and creative dishes that actually make sense. I will periodically update the list. Enjoy!
(Tasted) Serves traditional Spanish tapas dishes; good for snacks and drinks
The Corner Suite Bistro de Luxe
Former Boneta co-owner and Le Crocodile/Lumiere/Chambar managerial alumnus Andre McGillivray has partnered up with barman Steve Da Cruz (Boneta and most recently on the wood at Gastropod). The executive chef is Anthony Sedlak, host of the Food Network show, The Main. The trio seems impressive, and the menu looks simple and well composed.
It reminds of Salt Tasting Room, but with more substantial dishes sock up the alcohol. The place looks small but chic. The drink menu is rather attractive. The location is definitely better than Salt.
Affordable Italian food. Its large beer list looks most tantalizing, very reasonably priced.
The menu just doesn’t look as tasty as the good old Fuel. The city has seen quite a few fine dining restaurants close or change concept – almost becoming a concerning trend. I still would like to give Refuel a chance despite of the reviews.
Former chef/owner of Gastropod, Angus An, opened this place. The room at passing looks vibrant. The menu seems interesting. It’s much raved about – the expectation is high.
The trip to North Vancouver is no longer needed. Fine chocolate and gourmet sandwiches…. Mmmmm.
(Tasted) Tacos and Quesadilla are the only things that it sells. Authentic flavours at reasonable prices.
It’s opened by former chef at Parkside. The Mediterranean menu is focused and filled with small and sharable dishes. The flavours seem clean.
(Not yet open) A new project by Sean Heather (owner of Irish Heather, Salt Tasting Room, and etc), it’s designed to be a small Spanish tapas place. It will be right next to Salt Tasting Room. The opening has been postponed to early March due to red tape.
A Mexican sandwich joint that serves up tortas with authentic flavours. The prices (about $9) are a little expensive for sandwiches, but with the size, it should be worth it. The place also offers traditional Mexican drinks and sweets. It seems like a very good lunch (or casual dinner) place.
This little French bistro is a little out of the way, at 15th and Fraser. The location didn’t stop it from being much talked about. The menu consists of classic French dishes – Pate de Campagne, Frisee aux Lardons, Cassoulet, and such (comfort food almost).
Refuel’s sister restaurant. Campagnolo focuses on Italian cuisine. The menu has a separate section for cured meat (a little different for an actual restaurant to offer this). Otherwise, the menu seems well composed and unpretentious. By the way, the location is a little interesting – it’s near the Pacific Central.
Need I say more? With Daniel Boulud in the mix, his reputation itself draws the crowd.
Again, need I say more? A restaurant is opened by the three Michelin starred Jean-Georges. Being in Shangri-La and all, the menu still looks affordable.
Another place with an extensive wine list and cheese and cured meat to pair. If you love cheese and wine, this is the place to be.
(Tasted) This sort-of Italian restaurant and bar is opened by a colleague’s friend. The soft opening didn’t seem to have gone very well, but it was recommended to me.
Comfort food, a chic environment with plenty of TV’s, and a large selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Isn’t that just every man’s dream?
VanFoodies.com 
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