This summer, the ambitious and high-concept modern Chinese-meets-Pacific northwest restaurant Blossom Dim Sum & Grill would have marked one year in business in Vancouver's West End. However, it now appears likely that, following what was to be a temporary closure in March due to COVID-19 restrictions, the restaurant won't ever re-open.
In fact, the massive 6,000-square foot and upper-level Blossom Dim Sum & Grill at 808 Bute Street is currently listed for sale. With social media accounts dormant since January (Facebook) and March (Instagram), things sadly aren't looking good for anyone hoping to check out their dim sum, sushi, and other fare.
The sprawling space has seats for at least 180, not counting the sweet corner patio that seats 40 people. In past lives it has been a massive Moxie's, an Allstar Wings & Ribs, and the short-lived Second Floor Eatery & Bar.
When it debuted in June 2019 as Blossom, the space had been divided into somewhat thematic zones, with a more sleek and cozy bar (sushi and drinks) section up front, casual bar-area seating and the aforementioned patio a little deeper in, followed by the main light-filled dining room and private and semi-private dining rooms for groups in the other half.
A trio of chefs were tapped, each in charge of a different aspect of the menu: dim sum, sushi, and everything else. Dishes not only reflected a modernization of traditional foods (mushroom-stuffed vegan dumplings) but also global influences (whole fish with chimichurri).
Blossom aimed to make a big splash, welcoming large groups to watch sports, enjoy post-work drinks, or for larger feasts. In its earliest weeks, the restaurant nabbed mentions in high-profile entertainment media outlets thanks to a visit from actors Tori Spelling and Shannen Doherty, in town at the time to film their 90210 TV reboot.
However, in the new year, once COVID news hit B.C., things quieted down for Blossom, and by mid-March, they opted to shutter temporarily, as restaurants across the city and province were made to close down to prevent the spread of the virus. First, the restaurant planned to close for a couple of weeks, then just a few days later, announced an indefinite closure.
Blossom Dim Sum & Grill has not re-opened.
According to the new sale listing, the venue's rent is about $23,000 per month. Upgrades to the space since its last sale in December 2018 are valued at about $1.2 million, and the listing agent calls the business a potential "money machine."
We've reached out to Blossom Dim Sum & Grill to confirm their status and plans, and will update if possible.
