Now that the Oakwood Canadian Bistro has made a firm landing in Kitsilano’s West 4th Avenue/Macdonald corridor, it was time to let the neighbours in.
Last night, owner Mike Shea welcomed media and later guests to the Oakwood to sample the menu while enjoying drinks and mingling.
In case you haven’t yet visited, the interior is completely redone since The Cabin days. Lots of reclaimed West coast wood, gorgeous wooden ceiling lamps, a bar to the side and open kitchen in the back create a welcoming spot for dinner, drinks, and weekend brunch.
The menu is focused on down-to-earth Canadian fare, including locally sourced products and Ocean Wise certified seafood.
Gone are the flat screen TVs. Sports action is always close by at Darby’s (at the corner of Macdonald and West 4th). This eatery focuses on just food, and great Canadian food at that.
Chef Mike Robbins creates everything in house, including the smoked meat. I also noticed a well cared for craft beer, wine, and cocktail selection. Kudos for using Vivreau, a sustainable still and sparkling water solution, in the restaurant.
My hands-down favourite dish served was the Dungeness crab tortellini, perfectly cooked pasta with a divine filling. According to the menu, it’s normally served with an apple fennel salad with brown butter emulsion. This is what comforts my stomach and satisfies my taste buds on colder nights.
Here then is a look at the restaurant and the people behind the Oakwood.
[Butternut squash soup with blue cheese foam garnished with a deep fried sage leaf]
[Albacore tuna topped with a red onion relish]
[A slider version of the Oakwood burger]
[Owner Mike Shea, far left]
[Ocean Wise-loaded menu]
[Beet and goat cheese salad minis]
[Maple glazed pork belly with apple puree, pork crackling]
Oakwood Kits Canadian Bistro is located at 2741 West 4th Avenue in Vancouver. Visit the website for menus, opening hours, and more information.
