It never ceases to surprise me how fast things change on Vancouver’s restaurant circuit. I say circuit because it really does feel that way (i.e., from Yaletown, to Gastown, to Main, to Kitsilano, and back again…kind of like Bilbo’s journey).
Stepping back from the Shire for a second, I think Main Street has got some serious talent that has/is yet-to-be discovered when it comes to Vancouver’s food and lounge scene.
Interestingly enough, on one of my last visits (to Crave…great spot), I passed what looked like an abandoned building that was once an A&W drive-in from the 80’s. It wasn’t.
A few weeks later, bang!, up pops Burgoo Bistro at 3096 Main Street, an offspring of the West 10th Avenue mother ship. I’ve heard a lot of things about Burgoo, especially the fact that it takes its name from a hearty Irish/mulligan stew that has traditionally contained whatever meats and vegetables were in supply at the time (including possum…nice).
I’m not really concerned about the stew part, and I’m sure possum tastes great to some. What I am concerned about, however, is to figure out what the buzz about Burgoo in Vancouver is about. So…this weekend timinganddelivery will be making an appearance to absorb all it can.
I’m curious, though, have any of you been and if so, was the food/service good, bad or otherwise?
darren
It’s nice to hear that my recommendations are taken seriously. As a friend of a friend of yours, I hope that when you do visit Burgoo, it’s a great experience. I have spent at least one lazy Sunday afternoon on their fabulous patio drinking Sangria and I’m both happy and sad that word of its excellence is spreading quickly. The place has been packed since it opened. The food is excellent and always has been. I first started visiting the patio of Burgoo on 10th near UBC at least six years ago and it remains one of my favorite spots. The fondues are better than any other I’ve had in the city and their sandwich/fresh stew or soup combos are great. I’ve always had great service at the location on 10th, but I will say that the Main St. location may still have a few bugs to work out. I’m hoping that’s due to the fact that it’s so new. I highly encourage you to visit Burgoo soon, while the sun is out and the patio is at its best.
Thanks, Sarah!
By the way, loved the ‘fondue’ reference (totally A-List)!
Burgoo summed up (in my opinion):
-great patio, loved the atmosphere, especially on a beautiful summer evening. Totally worth the 30ish minute wait.
-one of the tastiest sangrias I’ve had in a while (even had real fruit).
-very random menu, found it hard to focus and pick from all the different types of cuisines, but happy with my final selection.
-would love to go again and try it one of their famous stews on a cold winter night. Next time I’d also try the fondue.