We were lucky to get a table this weekend at what is sure to be one of the hottest dining destinations over the winter here in Vancouver. And it really was a fantastic night.

Nestled in the beautiful new development from the Solterra Group right in the heart of busy Chinatown, Juniper delivers a stylish, hip and well-thought out program featuring a west coast focused menu paired with all-star barman Shaun Layton’s (formerly of L’Abattoir) advanced cocktail wizardry. And having an ace like Sarah McCauley (Formerly of Blue Water) on hand guiding deft service as well as designing a refined wine program ensures the full experience has been considered.

Having a soft spot for James Bond, I immediately ordered the Aston Martini ($13) and wasn’t disappointed. A toast to my lovely date with her sparking Haywire ($12) began an enchanting evening.

The Wes Anderson-esque menu categories were fun to navigate and we went straight to The Cellar and then hopped into some Fields & Forage. House-made Pickles ($3) were crisp and sharp and the Chicories ($14) with sunchokes and sunflower seeds were a great start.

Having a hankering for all things green when its grey outside, we re-upped with the Fall Greens ($12), which were beautifully presented and well executed. Always good to see a chef who knows you have to have something grab your fork to avoid chasing leaves every which way. Different textures played very well.

Chef Sarah Stewart (formerly of Edible Canada) has definitely put together a menu to appeal across a broad base while showcasing the very best of our season and local fare. I couldn’t resist trying the Butchered Hen ($26), a rarity to see at this kind of operation and it didn’t disappoint. Foraged Chanterelles and a perfect sauce paired well with one of my favourite Oregonian standbys, the Delinea Pinot Noir from the house of Sokol Blosser.

Having chosen myself from Crock & Boiler, my date deferred to Puddle & Pond. She thoroughly enjoyed the Black Cod ($30) with duck-fat roasted potatoes and crispy duck skin as well as some more of the Haywire bub.

We skipped out on dessert to meet friends at a party in Gastown but will be sure to return shortly. We live dangerously close and that means more Aston Martinis on the horizon soon.

Juniper

185 Keefer Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 6L4
604.681.1695
junipervancouver.com