I didn't take any photos, I'm sorry.
I had an amazing time last night and for so many reasons. Friendly, knowledgeable staff (I LOVE menu suggestions), good, simple, comfort food and a comfortable space.
My party and I ate like it was our last meal, so we tried everything.
We started with the poutine. The cheese was squeaky in your teeth and the chicken gravy was a nice touch. Those crispy shallots on top made a great dish, even better.
We had the butter chicken pie (a limited time item) and it was nicely spiced and crust was incredible. I it was paired with a yogurt/cilantro sauce and house-made pickles.
I also got a chicken sandwich and got it "Nashville hot." I'm Vancouver this is someone of a hit or miss moniker, while at The Magnet it's spot on. This was actual hit sauce dipped chicken sandwich (not just Buffalo sauce) and had coleslaw and house made pickles between a brioche bun. Completely outstanding.
We had the mint icecream sandwich and sticky toffee pudding for dessert. The sandwich is served frozen with a knife and I was given instructions to fracture it into smaller bits and then eat them. Thank you for doing this, I enjoyed this much more than trying to just eat it.
Sticky Toffee pudding: to be honest, I don't know what authentic sticky toffee pudding is supposed to be like, but the one we had is how I want it to always be served. It was sweet with butter parts and served with ice cream and whipped cream. What an indulgence.
The beer list is extensive and includes some of the best locals and the whole list is BC breweries. We really liked the sangria because it wasn't too sweet.
All in all, this a true brewhall and comfort food destination. I can't wait to go back, residuals as the weather...
Read moreWe visited The Magnet on West Pender in Vancouver last night. It's owned by the same folks that run Brassneck Brewery (on Main, very decent beers) and the Alibi Room (on Alexander, great beer list, best veggie burger in town, great location). We've heard good things from friends and checked it out for their beer list which is vast and great choices (only BC beers these days as everywhere but excellent selection). They have slow pours for some of the pilsners and a side pull for others for a denser, creamier foam. Staff is very knowledgable about the beers and about the short but mighty natural wine list as well. The real surprise for us was the food though. We had heard good things about their pies (English Pork Pie, daily choices) and charcuterie board but as vegetarians we opted for the Grilled Carrots with Spiced Orange Glaze, Chana Dal, Spinach, Cilantro & Cashew Lemon Cream, served with Fried Flat Bread and the Whipped Feta & Olive Dip, Grilled Zucchini, Warm Balsamic Shallot Dressing & Housemade Olive Focaccia. We were majorly impressed by the presentation and taste of both. The warm balsamic shallot dressing was divine. SO GOOD. Everything fresh, on point and so delish. Highly recommend checking this place out when you are in...
Read moreThe Magnet looked good on the reviews, so I went to check it out for the first time. I am disabled and need a walker for mobility.
I was dressed well as always and planned to hang out and eat, and I usually spend around $150 when I go out. I went to sit at the bar, and the waitress was nice but asked if I would sit in the walker and pointed to an empty corner, no table. How embarrassing! I Said no this is good.
After a bit of a wait, the bartender came over and was giving me a vibe like I didn't belong there. I ordered a beer and felt awkward, so I said hey my name is ... what's your name just to start some chat. He waved his hand at me and shook his head as if to dismiss me! I finished the beer. He saw that and came over with the bill! Okay! I said um I was going to have another beer. He brought another one and was chatting and having conversation with a group of guys next to me.
I got the bill after that and couldn't wait to get out. One of the worst vibes I gave ever had and I go out every 2nd nite to pubs and restaurants around the area.
I don't know what the issue was with the bartender, but his demeanor and body language were clearly saying you don't...
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