1 Athletes Way, Vancouver

Tel: 604-685-2223

Web: http://www.tapandbarrel.com/

Twitter: @tapandbarrel

Advice: Sit on the upstairs patio on a sunny day or sit in the upstairs library or at the long bar downstairs.

The Library

From the minute I walked up to the door I knew this was going to be a very cool and unique restaurant. First of all the location has one of the best views of the city along with two large outdoor patios, one on the main floor and the other upstairs. Inside the bar on the main floor is a stunning centrepiece that features an extensive selection of beer and wine on tap. They even have a lending library full of books which works on an honour system, come by and find a book you like and read while you are eating or drinking or take the book home.

Upstairs Bar

There are over 23 beers on tap along with an extensive selection of beer by the bottle, there is also well over 15 selections of wine on tap as well as an extensive wine list. You can even bring in your own wine bottle and pay the corkage for the privilege.

Coffee Glazed Dry Ribs

Sticky Yam Fries

Local Wild Mushrooms Hand Tossed Pie

Beer Bratwurst

I enjoyed some of the food offerings on my visit starting with the Coffee Glazed Dry Ribs ($8) along with the outstanding Sticky Yam Fries ($8) with burnt marshmallow fluff, this is one dish that is best shareable even though its one you are going to want to devour on your own. Next was the Local Wild Mushrooms Hand Tossed Pie ($15) which is basically a really good flatbread topped with wilted arugula, mushrooms and truffle cheese; and the last dish being the Beer Bratwurst ($18) Two Rivers brats, scallion mash, sauerkraut, and grainy mustard sauce.

There are so many dishes on the menu that I want to try such as the Spiced Rubbed Roasted Chicken scallion mash, market vegetables, ale reduction; PB & J Burger as well as the Stout Milkshake, must get back there soon!

Review By: Richard Wolak