Lavidas Restaurant — Restaurant in Vancouver

I can’t gush enough about this marvellous gem in Kits. We stopped in last night, tempted by the 3-course prix fixe menu posted outside. Best dinner choice in memory, as everything about our visit was the definition of what we enjoy when eating out. The atmosphere is simple but cozy and inviting, with two tables right by the big roll-up door/window that we secretly coveted. A couple lucky enough to have one of those tables smiled as we arrived, and we chatted briefly – they were halfway through their own first visit to Lavidas, and their mid-meal enthusiasm confirmed we’d made a good choice.

There was only one server for about a dozen tables, but she was the picture of competence and genuine hospitality, and we were never left wanting for attention or an honest smile. In the kitchen, the owner and chef was a whirling master of efficiency and culinary confidence. Between the two of them they made more magic than most restaurants do with a dozen staff.

We chose the mango salad starter, which was an ideal palette cleanser – sweet and crisp with shredded carrots, cashews, spinach, and a generous measure of perfectly ripe mango slices. Next up, we couldn’t resist trying the braised beef, which so many restaurants just can’t quite get right. Happily, Lavidas is the exception, serving a generous portion of tender beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and perfectly al dente carrots boasting the optimal hint of crunch and flavour. This was the definition of comfort food, and thankfully not over salted as most kitchens are guilty of.

With the bar raised so high, it wasn’t possible that the crème brulée would hold its own, yet it did. A light, mousse-like custard nestled under a delicate caramel shell, with hints of Earl Grey ensured a lingering, delightful finish to an altogether wonderful meal.

My final note is on tipping. Tipping culture is out of hand in this city – whether it’s to-go pizza, a cookie, a burger, or any other casual meal, the prompt screen lately starts at 18%. Frankly, that’s absurd. Ironically, Lavidas, where the service and food are amazing, and where you’re actually sitting down for a meal (historically the only scenario where tipping was expected,) the tipping screen starts at 15%. It’s a small thing to some, but that modesty and lack of entitlement shows a lot of class, and we didn’t hesitate to choose a higher percentage for the well-deserved tip. I wish other establishments showed the same modesty.

I have to work hard to think of anything I’d want done differently, and the only thing that comes to mind is freshly-ground pepper. To be clear, the meal didn’t need it, but I’ve always loved the burst of aroma when it’s offered at the table, and that unique bite that only fresh pepper can add to beef. Again, a small thing that didn’t detract from our meal.

As we left, we both agreed – we’ll be regulars to Lavidas. Keep in mind – they’re only open from 5pm to 8:30pm, but it’s worth scheduling your dinner to...

Quaint French Bistro. Located on busy 4th Ave a few doors east of Las Margaritas. My family and I had a hankering for French food since I felt bitten by nostalgia. My son has never experienced this cuisine before so we ordered 3 of the 3-course fixed priced menus. We each had a choice of appetizer so we could try each other's dish. We had the traditional French onion soup, an onion tart and a garden salad. The soup broth was tasty, topped by a broiled cheese crouton. My onion tart was a mild goat's cheese in a very flaky freeform crust topped with gently sauted onions, garnished with a squash puree, a balsamic vinegar reduction, arugula spray and root chips. The presentation was very eye catching and the tart was pipping hot. My son's salad was amazing according to someone who doesn't usually enjoy eating salad. Spring greens, sliced sweet pepper, carrot shreds, cucumbers and sliced strawberries all brought together with a lightly dressed buttermilk dressing. Delish he said. Our mains were duck confit cassoulet, linguine seafood medley in a dill cream sauce and braised beef cheeks with mash and vegetables. My duck was perfectly seasoned, had crispy skin and unctuous flesh and a berry jam. My white beans were tender cooked with carrots, onions and diced sausage pieces. My husband who is not a pasta fanatic the way I am raved about his seafood linguine. The sauce was very creamy and not overwhelmed by the dill which can happen. The seafood consisted of smoked salmon pieces, mussels and little clams. The portion size was very generous. The braised beef was a hit since no words were spoken by our son during the meal. Lol. He was too busy enjoying himself. Service was attentive by the wait staff. There were suitable intervals between courses so you didn't feel rushed or overstuffed. Dessert arrived in the form of 2 orders of baked cheesecake with a blueberry reduction and garnished with a hazelnut flavoured whipped cream and a traditional chocolate mousse. The chocolate mousse was made of a moderately sweet milk chocolate, topped by a hazelnut whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. The cheesecakes were the baked NY type with a dense texture and a heavy crumb crust. Both were thoroughly enjoyed by my boys. The only criticism I could have is that the cutlery could have been changed between courses and bread is offered as complimentary side. This is a small complaint compared to what we experienced at other French restaurants. The dining space is oddly configured. Some table seatings for 4 near the garage door style windows at the front. Lighting is a mix of natural light and subdued lighting. Unlike an authentic French Bistro the washrooms had no bidets. Excellent value if you go for the fixed priced menus. Definitely worth a return visit for seasonal...

This must be the best kept secret in Vancouver! I really don't think you can get a better deal! They have a $35 3 Course meal that is absolutely worth every penny & more! Not sure how they do it in this economy, but they do & let me tell you, they do it so very well!

We enjoyed the Mango Salad, Scallop & Prawn Ceviche, Canard Confit, Boeuf Braised et Pomme de Terre, Earl Grey & Burnt Honey Creme Brulee & Raspberry Crumble a la mode. Everything was absolutely wonderful! My duck was the best duck I have ever had! It was fall off the bone, melt in your mouth crazy good. The beef was well seasoned & fork tender. If I had one critique, it would be the potatoes. I'm not a potato person & there was alot of it, but if you like potatoes then you'll be good.

The cocktails & the decafe coffee were also delicious.

This is a relatively new restaurant, being open for less than year, so show them some love & visit soon! We want to make sure they stick around for...