Although we all have family members who we’d rather not have dinner with, the concept of family-style dining can make for an interactive and energetic feast. So whether it’s your brothers, sisters or besties, sharing is caring. It also means variety for those of us with menu ADD. Here are our four picks for Vancouver restaurants that do family-style right.
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The Oakwood
This spot packs a whole lot of Canadiana into one visit, both in the elegantly rustic dining room and the kitchen. The menu ranges from upscale (bison tartar with a tangy buttermilk vinaigrette) to comfort food (classic poutine with brisket), and is clearly driven by a creative chef who knows how to have fun in the kitchen. We were especially wowed by their family-style cocktails, mixed and served tableside in crystal decanters. After all, a family that drinks together stays together.
Gyoza Bar
After mastering the art of the gyoza, the chefs here turned their sights to the increasingly popular Vietnamese bao buns. Their new Bao Boards bring DIY dining to the table with a platter of different meats, seafoods, sauces, and toppings to stuff into deliciously fluffy steamed buns. There will be just enough room left on your table for their saké specialist to handpick a pairing flight.
Italian Kitchen
There’s something about Italian food that calls for a feast, and Italian Kitchen clearly agrees. Their Art of Sharing menu has six heaping platters to choose from, and we also know their chefs love a creative challenge in whipping up something new. Be sure to have them blast a couple of perfectly crisp pizzas in their wood-fire oven as well. As with any Glowbal Group restaurant, service is above and beyond, so don’t hesitate to bring the whole extended family.
Cork & Fin
This Gastown staple is fun (but not crazy), loud (but not noisy), and relaxed (but not sleepy) – just how a family dinner should be. Their simple Chef’s Table menu makes for breezy decisions, allowing you to design platters from their features and sides menu at $35, $45, or $55 per person depending on size. Bonus tip: the newly opened Mosquito Dessert Bar is just around the corner for a change in venue for sweets and more cocktails.
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