Yew Seafood + Bar

Many of us have definitely passed by that door with Yew Seafood + Bar’s sign when shopping in Pacific Centre downtown Vancouver. Having been in Vancouver for 10 years, I for one had never been inside this restaurant. I pass by it many times when I attend the New Product Salon held by IVSA. It’s that big rectangular block by the entrance followed by the luxury interior, I have to admit that the younger me was somewhat intimidated to go in. I have always wondered what it’s like eating at one of the premium dining spots of downtown Vancouver. What’s the food like, what’s the dining experience like, and is it going to be just like one of many other overpriced restaurants out there? I am glad that I went in now instead of before I really found my passion in fine wine and food and understand what customer experience truly means. I probably would not have observed and felt so much now comparing to the 10 -year-younger me. Situated by the lobby of Four Seasons Hotel by Pacific Centre, it definitely spells high end luxury with its decor. It uses mainly dimmer lighting and wood tone interior - strikes a fine balance between visibility and relaxation. That wine room at the back is just unreal. One day I will dine there surrounded by fine wines and friends.

It was lunch time, I had just finished visiting the 2015 Bordeaux Release event held by Marquis Wine Cellars.  Having tried some bottles already showing so well only 3 years in, I was lifted not by alcohol (I spat out like a professional taster I am) but by the tasting experience, I wanted to continue the stride. We arrived with a stroller and two hungry yet hyper daughters, imagine what that’s like going through a fine dining restaurant. Now, I really need to highlight the level of focus the whole lunch crew had on customer service. They were really friendly, helpful, and attentive. Two serving staffs helped us making sure our daughters were sat comfortably and safely - wiped down the high chair before sitting our younger one, also made sure the older one’s booster chair is secured by a chair with arms. Before we even ordered, they gave our daughters toys and fruit bowls to make sure they are neutralized. It was not that busy during lunch time, but I observed clearly that everyone was energetic and proactive to make sure they maintain a high standard at all times. Some were attending to customers, some were discussing strategy for serving customers they are expecting later. There were also people dining inside the wine room at the time - looked like they really were having a good time...  It shows that the genuine care is not just from isolated few but it is a continuous focus of the whole team.

Over 8 years ago, I went on a search for fine burgers in Vancouver Lower Mainland and had learned what to look for in a good burger. It can be a good representation of the restaurant’s capability. I ordered The Burger so I can get a good grasp of their quality and skill. My wife ordered the steamed mussels.  Their wine list is quite complete and with pricing fitting the quality of dining experience. This time I did not order wine.  I heard that their cocktails are quite exquisite so I decided to give it a try.

The Burger uses a thick house made patty with just some light seasoning, completed with horseradish Aioli, crispy onions, creamy slaw, and yellow cheddar - securely locked in by brioche buns.  I had the burger at medium rare, you can really taste the purity of beef. It is not like many other burgers that bombard you with rich and salty sauces, this burger was clean and elegant (if that makes any sense) while being hearty and juicy. I feel that the aim of this burger is not to overpower the patty but to support it. What is also worthy to note is that the bun holds the ingredients so well and stays crispy and dry from start to finish.  The Steamed mussels dish is so savoury packs a lot of umami yet well balanced by the acidity in the broth. Both dishes were definitely well worth it for the quality and quantity.

Here comes a tiny bit of regret in the whole dining experience, the cocktail I ordered was their Piscotarian, which has raspberry infused Pisco, Suze, apricot liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Don’t get me wrong, it is one of the most sophisticated cocktails I have ever had!  I initially was hoping for a lighter flavoured drink to pair with the burger - a Burgundian Pinot Noir or Chardonnay would have definitely done a great job at that - but I miscalculated on just how substantial a Pisco and Suze would do to the mix.  It ended up somewhat overpowered the delicate flavours of the burger even though there were definitely elements in the drink that enhanced the beef taste. Pairing aside, this cocktail is fragrant, refreshing, complex, and definitely delicious. The gentian root in Suze adds a woody earthy and herbal taste while the Pisco gives an uplift in aromatics. Complete with the thick foam on top, it is a very intellegent cocktail - if ever one can equate the word wisdom to a cocktail.

Even though the pricing of the menu items are definitely in the high price category - we were really satisfied by the whole dining experience and absolutely felt it is worth every cent.  Find an excuse to step in this fine establishment, you will definitely have a great time!