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Have you missed dining at C? If so, you’ll be pleased to know that Ancora’s opened in the former space with that same million-dollar view. Earlier this week, local media and foodies were invited to experience the new space headed by GM/Wine Director Andrea Vescovi (previously at Yaletown’s Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar).

[Squash and lobster bisque, black cod croquette, chive crème fraîche]

[L to R: Yoshi Tabo, Tara Thom, Matt Cooke, Andrea Vescovi, Ricardo Valverde]

The entire team, from Executive Chef Ricardo Valverde to Master Sushi Chef Yoshi Tabo was on hand to greet us as we sipped fruity house cocktails (aka Ancora Punch) and a selection of wines.

Chef Valverde hails from Peru, and his dishes have a distinctive South American flair. He’s worked at several highly-esteemed Vancouver restaurants, from CinCin to Diva at the Met, most recently serving as Chef de Cuisine at Blue Water Cafe.

A few of the Peruvian/Japanese/West coast dishes contain some heat; all are served with panache. There’s a raw bar, sashimi and sushi menu, and — wait for it: the Ancora glacier: Oysters, Peruvian mussel escabeche, Dungeness crab causa, a ceviche and tartare tasting and selection of sashimi. We’re definitely returning on a special occasion to savour the glacier!

[The delightful -and addictive- Ancora Punch]

Head Bartender Matt Cooke’s created a curated wine (local and international) and spirits menu to compliment chef Valverde’s dishes, while Restaurant Director Tara Thom brings nearly 20 years of experience to the group, having worked at both West and Blue Water.

The posh space seats 98 diners, plus there’s a heated patio and private dining area.

Ancora is open for cocktail hour (3 to 5 pm) and dinner (5 to 10 pm) and is located at 1600 Howe Street #2, where Howe greets False Creek.

While Ancora may not be at the heart of Robson Street or within Yaletown’s restaurant rows, once you’re down here, make time to relax and enjoy the stunning view while sipping and slurping.

Visit the newly-minted website for reservations and detailed menus.