Dovetail

Dovetail styles itself as a California vibe restaurant. I’m from California, but I’m not quite sure what that is. However, the dishes on the menu all look familiar, so I guess it passes that criterion.

There’s an all-day happy hour that includes reduced prices on some of the appetizers and handhelds, plus lots of drink specials. The place definitely has an active vibe and was quite busy. Service was attentive, and the food was all very good. I think our favorite dish was the shishito peppers we set out originally because my wife was in search of a tuna melt the way that she makes them at home. They came pretty close, although I think hers are better. My salmon smash burger was particularly delicious. I would order that again.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/dovetail-vancouver

Homer St. Cafe and Bar

I love this funky, historic bistro with lots of small spaces and a very interesting menu. The specialty here is rotisserie chicken, and it’s definitely worth trying. It’s right up there with the Michelin-starred Benoit in New York City.

The baby back ribs are also good, especially if you like North Carolina style mustard BBQ sauce.

The star of our meal was a special: chicken fried oyster mushrooms. These were delicately fried and served with a delicious mushroom dipping sauce.

The other standout was the cole slaw that accompanied the ribs. I wouldn’t have said coleslaw needed kale, but it was terrific—not too rich or sweet, and nice and crispy carrots and cabbage.

The wine list and cocktails are very well thought out. The BC wines by the glass were excellent, and someone really likes bitter aperitifs like Amari. I certainly do!

Our server was also the bartender, and they were terrific.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/homer-st-cafe-and-bar-vancouver

Yaletown Brewing Company

This giant space has a traditional brewpub menu that features all of the standard gotos like chicken wings and burgers, but also some interesting twists. I enjoyed the Indonesian stirfry lettuce cups from the appetizer menu. As you would expect, they have a selection of in-housebrews. My go to is the Porter. Service is very friendly, and the pricing is reasonable.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/yaletown-brewing-company-vancouver