From Top Chef Canada’s Dale MacKay comes eTap, located at 990 Smithe Street. Having made his culinary mark after successfully opening Ensemble earlier this year, MacKay’s latest culinary hot-spot is bound to be a hit. Newly-opened eTap offers diners “re-defined casual” cuisine alongside more than 40 beers on tap, 15 of which are micro-brewed to perfection. This may just be our new local haunt when it comes time to tuck into game night grub (catch those Canucks live on one of their 15 flat screens). The location also makes for a perfect pre or post theatre fix too!
Max’s Burger Bar has been on our radar for a while now after we first caught sight of their papered windows and eye-catching signage a few months ago. Well, it seems a grand opening announcement is imminent and tables are set, ready to go just in time for indulging over the holidays. A quick look at their menu reveals they’re serious about beef and plenty of other grilled fixings. Plates we think beg for a little noteworthy taste testing: Pigs in a Blanket, Off Leash Area, Gargomel’s Stuffed Toadstools and The Behemoth (24oz of pure beef patty that can apparently over feed four). Cruise by the 521 W 8th Avenue location to see for yourself.
Another spot on our radar that recently re-opened its doors (after all but burning to the ground about five years ago) is The Bimini (2010 W 4th Avenue.) This long-time Kitsilano hot spot is a definite must-do when you’re in search of a casual-chic space to catch the game with friends. Serving more than 30 different beers on tap and by the bottle, as well as plenty of wine, tequila, bourbon and whiskey to keep your liquid diet in-check, we recommend you don’t stop there. Dip into mouth-watering, gooey-good mac n’ cheese, Tikka masala or the mile-high nacho platter for starters. Packing more than traditional pub-fare, The Bimini scores high on our fun-factor radar with a newly improved layout, dance floor and balcony bar area (the perfect vantage point if you’re single). While there, try your hand at foosball or test your arcade or pool skills.
One last notable mention on YVR’s restaurant scene is Chewie’s Steam and Oyster Bar, which opened just over a week ago a few blocks up from Kit’s Beach (2201 W 1st Avenue). Venture by and put their authentic Cajun-Creole cooking to the test like we did. Might we suggest you try the coconut & jalapeno steamer, BBQ shrimp and grits or crab salad on fried green tomatoes for starters? Wash it down with an ice cold one, or opt for a glass of vino from their extensive list. The cozy space is the perfect escape from West 4th hustle and bustle during this hectic time of year, and offers another option if you’re looking to switch things up from Local (another Notable favourite).
