Winter Olympics 2010 - Market by Jean Georges

Wow, it's been months since I've posted anything here. Not that I haven't been eating out, but I've just been so busy to write reviews. I just came across an interesting article about the restaurant Market by Jean Georges in the Shangri-La Hotel in Downtown Vancouver.

Apparently, from Feb. 15 - 17th, celebrity chef Jean George will be in town, joining his team at his restaurant. Hours of operations will be from 11:30 am - 1:00 am with a heated, tented patio.

Read more about the article at Scout Magazine here.

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db Bistro Moderne

When I found out that Feenie's and Lumiere closed down a more than a year ago, I was very upset. They were my favorite restaurants in Vancouver! So when I heard that db Bistro Moderne opened and reopened Lumiere, I was very eager to try it out. Rumor has it, the Chef is supposed to be better than Rob Feenie. Well, he's NOT. Not only he's not better, he's no where near Rob Feenie.

I was disappointed from pretty much the begining with db Bistro Moderne. I didn't like the design of the restaurant to begin with. I don't know how to describe it really. The whole atmosphere just didn't impress at all. It seems like they're trying to be classy, casual, modern and classic all at the same time. It's not a big secret that if you're trying to be many things all at once, you're probably going to be quite unsuccessful at achieving any of it. That's the feeling I had for this restaurant. The only part of the restaurant that I liked, was it's private dinning room. It's separated from the rest of the restaurant by tinted glass panels, and can seat up to about 20 people. It's nice that you feel that you're still in a part of the restaurant while having the privacy of not having everyone overhearing your conversations.

After I got seated and had the chance to look at the menu, I was, once again disappointed. Usually, when I go to a nice restaurant, if I haven't had a particular dish in mind, I'll be very indecisive. There will, usually, be at least 2-3 items on the menu that I couldn't decide on which one to get. Unfortunately, when it came to db Bistro, I couldn't decide on what to get at all, because nothing was appealing enough. Well, at least for the main course that is.

Appetizer was easy enough for me, as nothing other than the Country Duck Terrine appealed to me. Out of all the appetizers (ranging from $9-$23), almost half of them were salads, and then many where similar things with a different name or ingredient. Not much of a choice there, really. I'm sorry to say, but there really isn't a diverse selection there. Thankfully, the terrine didn't disappoint, but that was pretty much the only thing that I'd go back to db Bistro for.

Main course was difficult. I don't think I've ever taken so long to decide on a main course, even when I get indecisive. There was really nothing on the menu that was appealing. I end up ordering the Original db Burger for 2 reasons. One, I didn't know what else to order, and two, I wanted to compare it to Feenie's Burger. Well, there was nothing to compare, because the db Burger was simply not comparable to the Feenie's Burger. Not only is it not comparable to Feenie's Burger, it's not comparable to Moderne Burger's burger just a block down the road, and it's not comparable to the burger at Market by Jean-George at the Shangri-La either. And guess what? The Original db Burger is $28, whereas if you go to Market for lunch, you can get a 3 course meal for the same price. Go figure why on Earth db Bistro have the nerve to charge $28 for a burger like theirs.

My mother ordered the Seafood Bouillabasse for $28, which was larger than the one over in the Blue Water Cafe, but of significantly lower quality in taste. And my father ordered a special that day, consisting of various pork products from 8 different parts of the pork. Forgive me for forgetting the name of the dish, but it was mainly because it wasn't memorable. Now it is a German-like dish, so that maybe part of the contributing factors to why we were not impressed at all by it. At the same time, let me say that I've definitely had better German food.

We didn't order dessert, as I pretty much stuffed myself with fries and everyone in my family is a small eater, so I can't really say if they have a good pastry chef or not. But I'm really not about to going back to try that either. The restaurant was just disappointing for me on average, and I certainly wish that they don't claim that they're better than Rob Feenie. I'm actually very hesitant to go to the new Lumiere right now, as I believe I'll be spending a lot of money for nothing... You know what, I think I'll go to the Cactus Club Cafe, maybe they'll have better food there, with Rob Feenie as the Food Concept Architect.

DB Bistro Moderne 2551 W. Broadway Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.739.7115

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Miku Restaurant

With Japanese food being my absolute favorite cuisine, it's only natural for me to go try pretty much everything new out there. I had the opportunity to dine at the Miku Restaurant a little while ago, and it was definitely one of the best sushi restaurants in the Downtown area.

Unlike the more traditional Japanese restaurants, Miku features the aburi sushi, which is nigiri sushi dipped in various sauces, then slightly seared. To be honest, as a Japanese food lover, I'm a little ashamed to say that I've never heard of this type of sushi prior to going to Miku. But nonetheless, the experience was more than a positive one.

So since it was the first time for us to try this type of sushi, we decided to order the Premium Aburi Sushi for $18, which has small a selection of different aburi sushi, to see what it's like. In addition, we also ordered a couple of the aburi rolls, which averages to be about $12 each. I must say though, although the food was all delicious, many of the rolls were similar to the ones present in the Premium Aburi Sushi dish. So, we did felt a redundancy. But then, it's our fault for ordering unwisely.

What I love the most about the aburi sushi in Miku is their sauces. It's not difficult to make sushi and then sear it, but it's difficult to make a different sauce to match each different fish and each different roll. And Miku does an excellent job at it. One thing though, just be be picky, it would be even better if the servers could warn the guest when they are ordering things of too similar taste. That would definitely avoid their guest getting "bored" if they weren't the best at picking out what to order.

Now talking about service, the people there were excellent people. Very nice, helpful and friendly. Unfortunately, the time when I went, they were understaffed, so there was a delay in service. But then I believe that they've hired more people, as I haven't been hearing anything bad about the restaurant from the other people who went there.

Other than food and service I heard that they serve a very nice mojito too, but I haven't had the chance to try. But I definitely love their patio. On a nice day, they actually do get some sun, as opposed to some other restaurants in the Downtown area that has a patio but no sun shining on it. However, their ambiance was only ok though, chic, but nothing unforgettable.

I would definitely recommend anyone who likes sushi to give this excellent restaurant a try. After all, it did snatch the Best Formal Japanese Restaurant Bronze Prize after only a few months of their opening. If you don't mind a later dinner, I'd say go after 8PM. It's because the meter parkings are EXPENSIVE just outside of the building, but after 8PM, it's free!

Miku Restaurant #2 – 1055 West Hastings St (at the Guinness Tower) Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.568.3900

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Tenhachi at Shaughnessy Village Hotel

One thing that's good about working the graveyard shift is that you get the opportunity to eat breakfast even if you're not a morning person. So one day, an hour before I finished my graveyard shift, I began craving for a traditional Japanese breakfast. I Googled it and finally found Tenhachi, located in the Shaughnessy Village Hotel. Seeing that it's only $7.50 for a breakfast combo, I decided to go straight after work. And man, was it awesome.

I've never thought that there's Japanese breakfast in Vancouver, but I guess we have pretty much everything here in Van City. Tenhachi features Japanese Home-Style Cooking, but where it's located can certainly throw you off the first time you go. Shaughnessy Village Hotel is a dumpy little hotel that looks like they should have been renovated 30-40 years ago. With mirror pillars and an old style receptions desk, I was certainly very confused when I first went in. It was also quite difficult to find a parking spot, as the area is mostly residential, most street parking requires a permit, but there are 3 parking spots hidden behind the hotel with a Tenhachi sign there.

There are 5 different Japanese breakfast combos offered, Salted Salmon, Natto (Japanese Fermented Soy Beans), Grated Daikon with Whitebait, Grated Yam, and Cold Tofu. All are served with rice, miso soup, Japanese pickles, and various side dishes, which, I believe, is slightly different every time or during different times of the year. For those who are more conservative eaters or are just not used to traditional Japanese food, other than say sushi and tempura, the safest bet would be to start off with the Salted Salmon combo. Otherwise, the Cold Tofu combo would also be a good choice. The other two, however, are definitely more for the experienced or adventurous eaters.

Breakfast is served everyday from 7 AM - 12 PM, so if you think a full on Japanese breakfast is too big for you in the morning, you can consider trying it for an early lunch or something. The combo is quite filling, and considering it's price, it's just one of the best things. I'll definitely be going back for more. I'll be trying the Cold Tofu combo next.

Tenhachi 1125 W. 12th St. at Shaughnessy Village Hotel Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.742.0234

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C Restaurant

On my parent's anniversary this year, we decided to give the C Restaurant a try. Not that we've never been there for the many years we've been living in Vancouver, but it was just that we were not "wow-ed" the last time we were there many years ago. But after reading all the praises for the restaurant throughout this year, we'd decided to give it another try, hoping we'd be more impressed this time around. Unfortunately, it was again a disappointment.

C Restaurant proud themselves in purchasing directly from farmers and fishermen, rather than suppliers, for their ingredients. This is definitely evident in their fresh, high quality ingredients for their food. Problem, at least for us, lies in the taste of the dishes. Don't get me wrong, it doesn't taste bad, exactly. It was just that there was nothing special about it. There was nothing that screams C Restaurant at you, nothing that you couldn't replicate elsewhere, nothing that you just have to have again.

We ordered a variety of dishes, the taster Scallop Tataki and Salmon Ribs, the appetizer Lobster Bisque, the main course Smoke Duck Breast and Twice Cooked Sable Fish. But, like I said, nothing special. They were good, but not good enough that any particular dish pops up in my head when I think about the restaurant. Dessert though, was a much better experience. The Dark Chocolate Ganache was very rich and tasty. If I could, I would love to just go there for the dessert itself. The portions were also not too big or too small, considering if you have a three course meal.

The thing that I like about C Restaurant is their taster dishes. They're small, bite-sized, so it's wonderful for those who has smaller appetite. They are a little pricy for their size though, ranging from $8-$11 each. Appetizers are also quite pricy, averaging at around $17, and the main courses are mostly just under $40.

One thing about C Restaurant, though, is that they are right in front of the water, so you get a nice view of the Granville Island. It certainly can be quite romantic dining there, and the service is great. From what I've heard from my friend, the wine selection there is also excellent. They also have valet parking at $7, so it doesn't matter if you're on high heels and didn't want to walk from your parking spot, if you're running late and can't find a parking spot, or if you are just too lazy to walk.

All in all, for C Restaurant, I will, unfortunately, have to disagree with the food critics out there that gave them numerous awards. I really don't think they're that good. They are not bad, but for all the hype and the awards they've received, I can only say: At that price, I've had better.

C Restaurant 2-1600 Howe St. Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.681.1164

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Moby Dick's

When I first moved to Vancouver as a kid, I lived in White Rock. I used to hate it so much, since everything that's fun are far away from where I live, and I couldn't yet drive because I was too young. But there are also good things there though, like the Moby Dick's fish and chips restaurant by the White Rock Beach. They serve fresh lingcod with a homemade extra fluffy light batter. It's really one of the best fish and chips I've ever had.

Their portions are quite generous, and no matter if you're ordering 1 piece, 2 pieces, 3 pieces or 4 pieces, there're always an extra piece served on each plate. Their batter is also so light that you'll only need a fork to cut the fish. I really like their homemade tartar sauce. It's an extra cost, but it's definitely well worth the price. I think they sell it in packets too, for take-out. For appetizer, their calm chowder is excellent, although a little on the thick side. So I'd suggest ordering only a cup of it for $3.20.

The pricing is not exactly cheap, but for the quality of food, it's quite worth it. One piece fish and chips costs $9.40 and four pieces is at $19.20. I would actually cut the chips though, because the hand-cut fries aren't really that good, and it's much less to get it without the fish. One piece of fish only is at $5.90 and four pieces is at $13.30. If you're throwing a party, you can also order a barrel of fish to go.

On a busy afternoon, you'll have to wait in line for a table, but people are usually very considerate and doesn't dwell too long. But if it's summer and the weather is nice, you might as well buy from the take-out window and sit by the beach. But whatever you choose to do, Moby Dick's, alone, is definitely worth the trip to White Rock.

Moby Dick's 15479 Marine Dr. White Rock, B.C. Tel: 604.536.2424

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Market by Jean Georges Restaurant

I've been to the Market by Jean Georges for lunch twice now, and have yet to try dinner there. The restaurant is fine dining, but does have a casual cafe atmosphere to it with a terrace opened throughout the day for drinks and meals. Unfortunately, though, both of my lunch experiences with them were only above average, and sadly, it was only because the service wasn't up to par.

One of the best thing about lunch at Market by Jean Georges is the price. You can get a 3 course menu at only $28, without beverages, and there is a very good selection of dishes you can choose from. All their ingredients are seasonal and regional, so you can be sure that everything is fresh. And being a restaurant of a celebrity chef, the quality of the dishes are, as expected, high.

We've had quite a few dishes there, including salads, scallops, raw oysters, pizza, fishes, steaks and hamburgers, and my favorite had to be their Black Truffle Pizza. Its crust is thin and crispy, and the pizza is very delicious. A little too big for an appetizer, but nonetheless, very delicious. Their raw oysters are decent. There are about 4 different oysters, a red wine vinegar sauce and a cocktail sauce to choose from. Unfortunately, neither the quality of the oysters nor the sauces are as good as the Blue Water Cafe, but for a 3 course lunch menu appetizer, it is worth a try. Their main courses are all quite good, although none stood out as the best in town.

Dessert-wise, I must say that they have quite good of a pastry chef. All of the desserts that I've tried there were excellent, although my favorite had to be the Chocolate Mousse... but then my favorites almost always have chocolate in it.

Now the thing that I didn't really like about Market by Jean Georges is the service. In generally, I am disappointed by the service by the Shangri-La Hotel in Vancouver. The first time I went for lunch, it was very busy, and the service speed was much too slow. Although the second time I was there, the speed of service has improved, the servers are still not as attentive as they should be in a luxury hotel restaurant. For example, I would finish my glass of water during main course, and never had it refilled throughout the rest of my meal, although the server came by several times to clear the table and serve us coffee and dessert. Now I didn't ask him to refill my water, but at a restaurant like that, I shouldn't have to ask.

Other than the service not being up to par for a luxury hotel restaurant, I think Market by Jean Georges is a pretty good choice for quality lunch in Downtown Vancouver. For $28, the portions are decent and filling, and the quality of the ingredients and the dishes are excellent.

Market by Jean Georges 1115 Alberni St. (3rd Floor in Shangri-La Hotel) Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.695.1115

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Blue Water Cafe

The Blue Water Cafe is another one of my favorite restaurants in Downtown, Vancouver. Situated in the Yaletown area, where great restaurants and unique shops are abundant, the Blue Water Cafe is a lively seafood restaurant with a fantastic menu and an extensive wine list. If you're not in the mood for a big dinner, but would still like to enjoy some great seafood, the restaurant also has a raw bar serving an excellent selection of oysters, sushi, and sashimi.

I'm a person who really enjoy seafood. Ask anyone who knows me, and they'll tell you that as long as it's a fish dish, I'll devour it all. But my favorite type of seafood is by far fresh oysters. I can't stand them cooked, but I can eat dozens of them when they're raw. And that's one of the reasons why I love the Blue Water Cafe. They have a wide selection of oysters, from sweet to salty, from mild to metallic taste, and the servers are very knowledgeable on the menu, and can recommend the types of oysters to order by your taste. The oysters ranges from about $2.75-$4.25 a piece, and obviously, the quality is excellent.

Although a little pricey, their 2 tiered Seafood on Ice platers are also excellent with a variety of fresh fish and shellfish. If you order the 3 tiered plater, you'll also get sushi and Dungeness Crab. And if you ever order Chill Prawns, the restaurant makes a very delicious homemade cocktail sauce.

My dad had the Bouillabaisse when we went there a couple of weeks ago and it was also exceptional. The only thing is, the portion is too small for a main course at $29. One of the more disappointing dishes would be the Organic Fraser Valley Greens salad. For an appetizer at about $15 dollars, neither the taste nor the quality really delivered.

We had the Raspberry Creme Brulee for dessert and it was certainly a very good choice. The creme brulee itself was just right in sweetness, and it's paired with white chocolate gelato and short bread. Definitely very delicious and refreshing.

The restaurant's wine list is huge, almost like a novel, which can be quite intimidating for a beginner like me, but would be great for the wine fanatics. But their wine collection is definitely an excellent one, as they have received multiple awards for their extensive wine list. If you're a novice or beginner like me, just look at the table of contents in the front, flip to the back where the open wines are, and order from there. The wines there wouldn't be overly pricey, but still a decent quality.

I don't believe valet parking is available, but parking are not too difficult to find on Hamilton street. If you really can't find a spot on the street, there is a public parking just a block or two down the road.

So if you like seafood, the Blue Water Cafe is certainly a restaurant you should go to. The restaurant is lively with their open kitchen and raw bar and the fresh seafood is always great quality. Be sure to make a reservation on weekends though, they book up easily.

Blue Water Cafe 1095 Hamilton St. Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.688.8078

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Gotham Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar

Although I've only been there once, Gotham Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar has, quickly, became one of my favorite restaurants in Vancouver. My dad and I are both foodies, you see. And we've been around town searching for good steaks for a long while. Unfortunately, we weren't able to find one until Gotham.

Their appetizers are around $15, and their entrees range from $30-$55 excluding side dishes, which are about $8 each. We tried 2 different cuts of steaks, the Prime Rib and the Filet, both, of which, were cooked to perfection and the meat itself was of extremely high quality. Not only are there steaks delicious, their other dishes were also excellent. My mother ordered the Calm Chowder, and boy were there a lot of calms in it, and her Garlic Shrimps were also very tasty. And their salad is actually chilled!! This is something you don't usually see outside of USA.

I haven't really had the chance to go through their wine list, and even if I had, I wouldn't really be able to tell if they had a good selection or not, because I rarely order anything by the bottle. But their selection of wine by the glass was good, and the quality was decent.

If there was anything to complain about this restaurant, it would be the service and their desserts. While neither of these two things are bad, they just didn't really live up to my expectations. They seemed a little under staff on the night I went, so it was difficult to locate my server, and it took a while for my glass of wine and my dad's salad to arrive. But their servers were very polite, so that made up for the delay in service a little bit. Now with the dessert, they're good, but not THAT good. With their appetizers and main dishes being so great, I expected to be equally wow-ed by my dessert. Unfortunately, I wasn't.

We went on a weeknight, but the restaurant was still very lively. They also have a patio for those of you who like to sit outside on a warm summer evening. Valet parking is available for about $7 for those of you who are too lazy to walk, but there are also street parking within 1-2 blocks from the restaurant and it will be free from 8 PM onwards. For those of you who are planning big parties, they also have a private room available if you book ahead of time.

If anyone was to ask me for a good steakhouse, it would be Gotham, hands down. Although many would compare the restaurant to Morton's, my family and I believe that Gotham is a MUCH better restaurant. Morton's is usually dead, much more expensive, with inferior meat quality.

Gotham Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar 615 Seymour St. Vancouver, B.C. Tel: 604.605.8282

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