First Nations pride is on full display inside one unique Vancouver restaurant.
Broadway's Salmon n' Bannock is the city's only spot for authentic Indigenous cuisine.
The restaurant was founded in 2010 to provide a gathering place with a focus on people and food.
Current staff members proudly represent various First Nations from across the country.
The modern bistro team carefully selects fresh ingredients that support local Indigenous food providers.
"My first choice is Indigenous, my second choice is local, third choice is Canada, last choice is Turtle Island. That's how I do all of my shopping," explains co-founder and owner Inez Cook.
Menu highlights include Mushrooms on Toasted Bannock (traditional unleavened bread), Bison Pot Roast, and a Smoked Salmon Burger served with lemon aioli and house-made pickles on a bannock bun.
The ongoing Broadway Subway Project construction isn't a major concern for the restaurant. The culinary destination is mostly reservation-based and doesn't rely on local foot traffic; ample parking is also available in the back of the building.
Cook, a member of Bella Coola's Nuxalk Nation, says owning a restaurant that showcases her heritage is a dream come true.
"There's a lot of dialogue and people are starting to understand more about our stories and to actually have a location that people can come and meet us and talk to us and try the food, it's amazing."
