On Friday, October 28th I attended the opening party of Black+Blue on Alberni Street in downtown Vancouver. Proprietors Emad Yacoub and Shannon Bosa Yacoub share a passion for classic-style dining with their Black+Blue, a new steak-centric restaurant.
From juicy steaks to crisp service, classic cocktails to sumptuous décor, Black + Blue brings decadence and glamour back on the Vancouver dining scene.
Executive Chef Dennis Peckham, has crafted a menu where steak reigns. Working alongside Chef Peckham is Chef de Cuisine Jason Labahn, from famed Las Vegas steakhouses: Fix at Bellagio; Brand at Monte Carlo; and Alex at the Wynn.
Taking a cue from the restaurant’s name, whether you prefer black or blue, all cuts are prepared to perfection. The range of offerings is also impressive with an extensive selection of prime cuts available – from Wagyu to US and Canadian Prime.
In addition to steak, guests can expect to be wooed with a diverse mix of seafood classics: Oysters Rockefeller; Shrimp Cocktail; and Salmon Coulibiac. Tableside Caesar salads and shaker cocktails add charm.
As for the aesthetic, BOX Interior Design is behind the impressive 240-seat, three-level space design. Gold accents pop against a palette of rich tones to highlight classic-steakhouse finishes in velvet and leather. Striking details include: the meat cooler’s Himalayan Rock Salt ‘Wall’ where the salt acts as a canvas for the aged and cured meats on display; the glass-walled elevator, elegantly transporting guests between the three floors; a custom designed lighting installation suspended over the central bar from famed UK industrial designer Tom Dixon; and the private and semi-private dining rooms boasting smoked tobacco wall panelling, high coffered ceilings and granite-clad fireplaces.
Black+Blue is located at 1032 Alberni Street, the restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday, and for dinner only Saturday and Sunday. Call 604.637.0777 for reservations.
By: Richard Wolak