115 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver
Tel: (604) 620-5226
Web: http://baodown.net/menu/gastropub-dinner/
Twitter @baodowngastro
Advice: Takes reservations, walk-ins welcome.
Taking que from their original eatery in Gastown, this new gastropub is much more sophisticated serving up large plates and cocktails and so much more. Run by Owners Matt Adolfo and chef/partner Greg Edwards they are excelling with big and bold flavours and exciting dishes.
I’ve dined several times already, The Big Boss ($20) braised and grilled beef short rib on the bone, in a flavourful Massaman curry, crispy shallots, birds eye chili and basil with a side of coconut rice is such an impressive dish; The Fraser Valley Huli Huli Chicken ($18), sous-vide, then fire grilled overtop of their Thai Charcoal which gives the dish a unique smokey flavour, with a Thai vinaigrette, lemongrass, garlic, scallions, crispy garlic, turmeric, shallot, cane vinegar glaze, and shoyu; Same Same but Different ($18) pad thai with chicken minus the egg, with a lime squeeze and peanuts for crunch.
For brunch I had the delicious, Maui Wowee ($15) 3 Banana Pancakes topped with macadamia nut praline smothered in macadamia syrup; Kickin it up, The Schwartz ($18) a smaller version of the regular size, is a spicy Corned beef and hash without the obligatory egg with a slaw and tomato salsa which rounds the great flavours. The Morning Glory Bao ($8) is filled with sausage, bacon, chive omelette, cheese, mayo, hashbrowns, scallions, and banana ketchup; their Beignets ($5) are a sweet offering coated in cinnamon and sugar.
In addition to the large plates at dinner, you will find some smaller plates, a raw bar as well as a full on bar serving up inventive cocktails, wine and beer. If you are looking for their Bao’s you will find those served during weekday lunch; on the weekends it is all about the Island brunch, the Hawaiian Islands that is. The hip hop music that they are known for plays in the background, making this another great spot for a delicious meal with friends, family or office mates.
Review by: Richard Wolak
Vancouver, BC V5Y, Canada