Marlon Brando told Johnny Depp, “We only have so many faces in our pockets.” Well that’s how I feel about rave reviews, and yet I must give one to Kitsilano’s new Oakwood Canadian Bistro. The restaurant at 2741 West 4th buzzed last night at the official launch party, although doors opened softly this summer.
Oakwood Canadian Bistro describes their cuisine as honest Canadian fare. I think that description is too humble for menu items like the thick AAA burger, made with house-ground AAA beef shoulder that’s flanked by a crispy buttermilk fried onion and smoked cheddar, in a plump, house-made sesame bun. Every time owner Mike Shea or bistro general manager Amy Wheatley emerged with a tray of AAA slider tasters, the crowd pounced. (AAA burger pictured right)
Wunderkind executive chef Mike Robbins, who is only 27, creates the seasonal menus using only organic, horomone and antiobiotic free, Ocean Wise and sustainable ingredients. You can count on the fact that everything on the menu, from the pasta to the condiments and salt on your Caeser glass is made in house.
Decor is important too. From the bar, the view of the 85-seat room with elements made from reclaimed fir, oak and cedar is unpretentiously attractive.
Kitsilano.ca liked the Oakwood so much that we’ve invited them to join our new Local Profiles section, highlighting good food in the Kits hood, and they’ve accepted. We’ll launch their profile soon.
In the meantime, check out more about the 11 local craft beers on tap and the Oakwood’s full menu here.
Oakwood Canadian Bistro, 2741 West 4th Ave., 604-588-1965, Theoakwood.ca
Last modified: October 21, 2011
