What in the fresh B.C. halibut is going on?
With only a few weeks to go until Oct. 5, when the Michelin Guide reveals its 2023 awardees for stars, "Bib Gourmand" (value for pricing) and other honours for Vancouver restaurants, the legendary publication has just put another half-dozen spots on its list of recommendations for the city.
The Sept. 13 announcement comes two months after Michelin Guide dropped its first 2023 surprise list of 10 additions to its picks for the best of where to dine in the city.
To be clear, the restaurants Michelin is putting a new spotlight on as of now are not considered "starred," but simply "additions" to the restaurants their anonymous inspectors recommend. The publication does note, however, some of these restaurants could earn a star or stars, or be distinguished as Bib Gourmand, at the upcoming awards ceremony.
The Michelin Guide says these six additions demonstrate "it's clear that Vancouver's gastronomic landscape is getting more delicious every day," - though the picks reflect a mix of what some may have seen as initial 2022 "omissions" (Boulevard, Elisa) as well as some newcomers (Wildlight, Seaport City).
Michelin Guide's 6 new Vancouver restaurant recommendations
- Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar: The much-lauded restaurant at downtown's Sutton Place Hotel is well-known for its high-end seafood, as well as house-made pasta and dishes showcasing stunning Pacific Northwest ingredients, which Boulevard "ties all together with chic, modern ease."
- Elisa: Toptable's landmark Yaletown steakhouse (and butcher shop next door) has landed itself in the good graces of the Michelin inspectors at last.
- Moltaqa: A bold, lively, and immersive taste of Morocco in Yaletown. "The menu brims with tempting options," says the Michelin Guide.
- Seaport City Seafood: This under-the-radar newcomer is actually a massive spot on Cambie (in the former Milestones). Here you'll find "bubbling congee," and an ever-changing offering of dim sum that "leans traditional while also delivering a fresh and elevated perspective."
- Tetsu Sushi Bar: Two young and talented chefs serve just three diners at a time at this acclaimed Vancouver omakase sushi bar.
- Wildlight Kitchen + Bar: Another relative newcomer, this West Point Grey dining destination is all about celebrating the bounty of the region with modern but oh-so-approachable dishes.
