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Wow! This restaurant brought out banger after banger! Every dish was delicious, I have no notes. Their menu changes often which is the only downside of tasting something delicious that you may not get again.
(3.75/5) Buckle up because this one is going to be long... St. Lawrence is a Michelin-starred yet warm and approachable French-Canadian restaurant located in the Downtown Eastside. I have waited a LONG time to try this restaurant as I couldn't find the time (or the budget). My friend made a reservation for the cabane à sucre menu, and as a lover of maple syrup, I was very excited. Upon arrival, we were greeted in French, and all of a sudden, I felt the need to dig up all (or none) of the French I had retained during elementary and high school. I liked that the restaurant had a cozy cabin feeling with dark wooden tables/chairs, small cutlery, and red checkered napkins. We were served starters before deciding on the set menu items. The fois gras custard was a huge standout. The jelly on top, assumed to be maple syrup, blended seamlessly with the foie gras. I was also intrigued by the pea soup with smoky flavours from the ham hock. For context, the menu features a few choices for each course. Since we had 4 people, we had the opportunity to enjoy all the menu items. We also selected an additional appetizer to share and chose upgrades for a few of the courses. The first course featured 3 dishes and the add-on appetizer. Since the starters were so pleasant, I was disappointed when only 2 of the 4 dishes met my expectations. The eclair pastry with duck liver mousse was a pleasant addition with savoury (mousse) and sweet (cherry wine sauce) flavours. We also liked the terrine of the day, which was pork, prunes, and hazelnut in pastry. However, I was disappointed with the steelhead trout on dill cream and rye bread. The bread is hard with a lot of texture, and I found it overwhelming paired with the rest of the ingredients. We also did not enjoy the ham en gelee on top of the celeriac. It was too disorganized in terms of ingredients and texture. When the second course came along, I was hoping things would go upwards from here. Luckily, all of the second courses were delightful in my books. The gruyere-stuffed pasta, unfortunately, came with one single pasta (yes fine dining you got me again). However, it was soft and tasty and paired well with the warm onion-maple broth poured underneath. The duck pastrami was also tender. The lobster and scallop terrine was soft, fluffy, and delicious. I definitely drank all of the bisque left in the bowl, as it had just a hint of maple syrup. I was most surprised by the buckwheat crepe. Although it did not sound like much, it was a culinary masterpiece of flavours and textures. The mushroom ragout went very well with the crepe and the smoothness of the cheese sauce. Afterwards, the third course came along, and it left me overall satisfied. I had selected the sablefish, which I very much enjoyed. The maple had a mild, sweet flavour, and surprisingly, I liked the baked beans. I also tried roasted rabbit for the first time. I'm not sure if I'll try it again, given that I see rabbits outside my workplace every week, but it was tasty with stuffing inside. I also tried aligot potato puree for the first time, and wow, I did not know I could have stretchy cheese mashed potatoes! The potatoes paired well with the sauce. The venison was not my entree of choice, but I nibbled a small bite and found the meat tender and paired well with the red wine sauce. Finally, dessert was the favourite part of my night. The rice pudding was a dessert shared between two, and it was so enjoyable (not too sweet)! I really liked the texture and addition of the maple-shaped cookie and candied nuts. I found the tart a bit too sweet for my liking, but the profiterole (choux pastry) with delicious tea custard inside was a win for me. The added bits of apple were a good texture choice. There was an interesting choice of cocktails and drinks, and although I did not order any, there were no major standout comments from my party. The Michelin star is well-deserved, as I could see the careful craftsmanship in each dish and the thought that went into it. I also appreciate that the vibe of the restaurant did not feel pretentious or overbearing whatsoever. The service was smooth and friendly. Although I was disappointed with some of the dishes, the dining experience was positive overall. This is not $200 I can spend often, but I am grateful for the experience!
Michelin star well deserved! The restaurant serves justice to French Canadian cuisine, and our party had a wonderful time trying all the offerings. Service was also phenomenal, where the waiters went to great lengths to make sure we were comfortable (someone in our party had a spill!).
My husband surprised me for my birthday here and I've been trying to eat here for years !!!!! And so happy I finally got to try it. Their seasonal menu constantly changes but this meal was delicious! My favourite was the maple tart dessert. So funny because I was so full by then that I couldn't eat anymore but after one bite I ended up eating all of it. They must use some triple A grade maple syrup because I could not put it down and still think about it sometimes! I love the unique ness of everything on the menu and hope to come back soon!!
This was a transcendental dining experience. Having enjoyed exquisite French cuisine in both Paris and Montreal, I was intrigued to see how St Lawrence would stack up against culinary icons of French cuisine. And, seeing that they have a Michelin star, I was curious to see if I could delineate what makes a restaurant such a cut above another to earn this so coveted designation. Pulling up to the restaurant, the building was charming though the surroundings were a little less than ideal (other buildings closed down, homeless lining the street). But the grounds of the restaurant were charming, well kept and it was apparent had been there for quite a while. Can't hold others misfortunes against them. Stepping into the restaurant immediately you could sense an aura/vibe that is distinct among well executed French kitchens. There was a symphony of movement amongst the entire staff--from the hostess to the bartender to the Chef and sour chefs to servers--everyone seemed friendly but focused on the tasks at hand and moving in a mesmerizing harmony. It was something that I've never really seen before in a restaurant and it was beautiful to behold. We sat at the bar and the bartender served as our primary server. True to Montreal style we were greeted a blend of French and English which we so enjoyed about Montreal. For drinks, the wife started with a martini and I started with a mezcal margarita which was exceptional and had a distinctive flavor. As the food started to flow, we transitioned to a Rosé which paired beautifully with the dishes. For food we chose the 4-course dinner, which was a rich and savory journey across a myriad of flavors and combinations like I've never tasted before. In full transparency I will say 1 of the courses was not a hit for us (it was early in the meal), but the food on the whole was spectacular and captured the essence of fine Montreal dining with a distinctive French feel that had us at times feeling like we were transported back to Paris. I'm not sure what exactly defines why a restaurant receives a Michelin star, but I'm certain I had a beautifully unique and connecting dining experience last night like I've never had before. The classic French charm, symphony of movement from the staff, and exceptional food created an experience that had the wife and I feeling a way like we've never felt before about a dining experience. In a word? Exceptional.
I'd probably want to give the restaurant a 4.5 rating. The people are extremely kind. The service was amazing. Everybody was very helpful and happy. The place was also very nice and intimate. The food was good. Some were hit or miss. The endive salad was just ok - not what I would call a Michelin star salad. The quenelle of mushrooms was very good. The crust was perfect. Inside was also very good. Then the poison en croute was ok. The fish was fresh, but flavors were mute. I think some acid was missing with this dish. The desert (hazelnut mousse) was absolutely delicious. Overall, the quality of cooking was excellent. I just wish the flavors for the main dishes varied a bit more. Also, I think it was a lot of food. Maybe a 3 course option at a bit lower price would have been better for me.
Service was *fantastic*, food was good. Enjoyed the chocolate mousse with blood orange, the leek & cheese amuse-bouche, the fresh bread, and the endive tart the most. Would I return? I don't think so unless it was a company-sponsored dinner. I wanted to try it once and I have. For the price and the Michelin star, I kind of expected to be more impressed with every course. The veal dish was beautiful but didn't do it for me. Cubes of veal tongue just weren't my thing. I did leave feeling full though so even though portion sizes were very small, it's all fine in the end. Used the bathroom twice (left and right). Both times clean but absolutely reeked (and not by my doing). An air purifier or extractor fan would definitely help. Nothing like a stinky bathroom to start and end your extravagant meal!
I went to St. Lawrence at the start of the year to have their limited time sugar cabin menu. It was an absolute treat! My wife and I enjoyed every course, but our favorites were the desserts! The pie was absolutely delicious and a couple months later we are still reminiscing about it. We felt the menu was priced reasonably for the quality of service and food.
I got a front row seat to the Michelin starred kitchen at this lovely French restaurant. It was so exciting to see the head chef in action along with the rest of the team. Everyone was so incredibly friendly and the service went above and beyond any expectations I had. Patrons at St Lawrence all had happy faces while indulging in their beautiful and tasty meals. The welcome bread is warm, fluffy and decadent. While I was there I enjoyed the gnocchi pasta. The sauce is what makes a meal and the French know how to make a sauce better then no other. Make sure to book ahead as this place fills up fast!
Really enjoyed this place. Five course fixed menu. Service is impeccable. Food was amazing, even for Vancouver. Untouchable if this was the states. It's kinda loud and crowded yet intimate if that makes any sense.. this place manages to pull it off.
This Michelin rated restaurant is very deserving of its recognition. The service was impeccable with just the right amount of attention and privacy. We sat at the counter and watched the chefs do their craft with precision and it seemed like they really were enjoying their work. The dishes were all amazing with great creativity, nice presentation, and wonderful flavors.
A one-Michelin-star French spot with an intimate rustic chic interior and changing tasting menu. Reservations are recommended, and the staff was friendly and welcoming throughout the meal, but slightly hard to get a hold of. While the experience had its highlights, the dishes were hit or miss for us. The venison wasn't great, and the pâté en croûte du jour didn't suit our taste. The perrale sole was dry and had a pasty texture, which was disappointing. On the brighter side, the chicken and foie-stuffed crêpe was flavorful, and the smoked trout was well-prepared. For dessert, the apple tart fell flat, but the chocolat noir was rich and satisfying. It's worth trying for its unique dishes and Michelin recognition, but it may not be for everyone.
This place is a must! I've had this place on my list to try for years, finally I can check it off my list. A Michelin star restaurant lived to its hype. Located in Gastown, street parking can sometimes be difficult but had no trouble. I've been to Québec and enjoy French Canadian cuisine. From entering to leaving this place impressed me. Small, intimate and charming decor. My group had the set menu, decently priced. The service was amazing. The menu was very rich, full of flavor, and filling. I will be back.
An excellent dining experience, fitting of a restaurant that's earned a coveted Michelin Star. All of the dishes were thoughtfully presented and made, and all very good or excellent. The high-quality of the ingredient was tasted throughout and I appreciated the wine pairings offered. I think better wines could have been served (maybe offer an additional tier or plus up?), but they were all good. The service was excellent, and our server was even from Lyon, which added a nice touch. The decor was very cute and quaint, and fit perfectly with the French style of the restaurant. Everything about the restaurant itself was great. The area around the restaurant is rough, so I don't recommend walking to there or taking public transit. Locals are probably aware of the issues with the area, and it wasn't an issue for us. But travelers should be aware before deciding how to arrive. read more
Wifey took me here for my birthday. Reservation time of 715pm which was kept fairly accurately. Pictures will show the set menu and each dish. The restaurant itself is quite small and cozy, very upbeat vibe with the French music playing in the background. The waitstaff were very polite and friendly. Fairly attentive to all your needs and did not disappoint. The food was plated beautifully for each dish. Everything was very flavorful and delicious. The surrounding area is a bit rough so be prepared if you plan on dining in the evening. read more
5 months ago
4 months ago
Wow! This restaurant brought out banger after banger! Every dish was delicious, I have no notes. Their menu changes often which is the only downside of tasting something delicious that you may not get again. read more
(3.75/5) Buckle up because this one is going to be long... St. Lawrence is a Michelin-starred yet warm and approachable French-Canadian restaurant located in the Downtown Eastside. I have waited a LONG time to try this restaurant as I couldn't find the time (or the budget). My friend made a reservation for the cabane à sucre menu, and as a lover of maple syrup, I was very excited. Upon arrival, we were greeted in French, and all of a sudden, I felt the need to dig up all (or none) of the French I had retained during elementary and high school. I liked that the restaurant had a cozy cabin feeling with dark wooden tables/chairs, small cutlery, and red checkered napkins. We were served starters before deciding on the set menu items. The fois gras custard was a huge standout. The jelly on top, assumed to be maple syrup, blended seamlessly with the foie gras. I was also intrigued by the pea soup with smoky flavours from the ham hock. For context, the menu features a few choices for each course. Since we had 4 people, we had the opportunity to enjoy all the menu items. We also selected an additional appetizer to share and chose upgrades for a few of the courses. The first course featured 3 dishes and the add-on appetizer. Since the starters were so pleasant, I was disappointed when only 2 of the 4 dishes met my expectations. The eclair pastry with duck liver mousse was a pleasant addition with savoury (mousse) and sweet (cherry wine sauce) flavours. We also liked the terrine of the day, which was pork, prunes, and hazelnut in pastry. However, I was disappointed with the steelhead trout on dill cream and rye bread. The bread is hard with a lot of texture, and I found it overwhelming paired with the rest of the ingredients. We also did not enjoy the ham en gelee on top of the celeriac. It was too disorganized in terms of ingredients and texture. When the second course came along, I was hoping things would go upwards from here. Luckily, all of the second courses were delightful in my books. The gruyere-stuffed pasta, unfortunately, came with one single pasta (yes fine dining you got me again). However, it was soft and tasty and paired well with the warm onion-maple broth poured underneath. The duck pastrami was also tender. The lobster and scallop terrine was soft, fluffy, and delicious. I definitely drank all of the bisque left in the bowl, as it had just a hint of maple syrup. I was most surprised by the buckwheat crepe. Although it did not sound like much, it was a culinary masterpiece of flavours and textures. The mushroom ragout went very well with the crepe and the smoothness of the cheese sauce. Afterwards, the third course came along, and it left me overall satisfied. I had selected the sablefish, which I very much enjoyed. The maple had a mild, sweet flavour, and surprisingly, I liked the baked beans. I also tried roasted rabbit for the first time. I'm not sure if I'll try it again, given that I see rabbits outside my workplace every week, but it was tasty with stuffing inside. I also tried aligot potato puree for the first time, and wow, I did not know I could have stretchy cheese mashed potatoes! The potatoes paired well with the sauce. The venison was not my entree of choice, but I nibbled a small bite and found the meat tender and paired well with the red wine sauce. Finally, dessert was the favourite part of my night. The rice pudding was a dessert shared between two, and it was so enjoyable (not too sweet)! I really liked the texture and addition of the maple-shaped cookie and candied nuts. I found the tart a bit too sweet for my liking, but the profiterole (choux pastry) with delicious tea custard inside was a win for me. The added bits of apple were a good texture choice. There was an interesting choice of cocktails and drinks, and although I did not order any, there were no major standout comments from my party. The Michelin star is well-deserved, as I could see the careful craftsmanship in each dish and the thought that went into it. I also appreciate that the vibe of the restaurant did not feel pretentious or overbearing whatsoever. The service was smooth and friendly. Although I was disappointed with some of the dishes, the dining experience was positive overall. This is not $200 I can spend often, but I am grateful for the experience! read more
Michelin star well deserved! The restaurant serves justice to French Canadian cuisine, and our party had a wonderful time trying all the offerings. Service was also phenomenal, where the waiters went to great lengths to make sure we were comfortable (someone in our party had a spill!). read more
My husband surprised me for my birthday here and I've been trying to eat here for years !!!!! And so happy I finally got to try it. Their seasonal menu constantly changes but this meal was delicious! My favourite was the maple tart dessert. So funny because I was so full by then that I couldn't eat anymore but after one bite I ended up eating all of it. They must use some triple A grade maple syrup because I could not put it down and still think about it sometimes! I love the unique ness of everything on the menu and hope to come back soon!! read more
This was a transcendental dining experience. Having enjoyed exquisite French cuisine in both Paris and Montreal, I was intrigued to see how St Lawrence would stack up against culinary icons of French cuisine. And, seeing that they have a Michelin star, I was curious to see if I could delineate what makes a restaurant such a cut above another to earn this so coveted designation. Pulling up to the restaurant, the building was charming though the surroundings were a little less than ideal (other buildings closed down, homeless lining the street). But the grounds of the restaurant were charming, well kept and it was apparent had been there for quite a while. Can't hold others misfortunes against them. Stepping into the restaurant immediately you could sense an aura/vibe that is distinct among well executed French kitchens. There was a symphony of movement amongst the entire staff--from the hostess to the bartender to the Chef and sour chefs to servers--everyone seemed friendly but focused on the tasks at hand and moving in a mesmerizing harmony. It was something that I've never really seen before in a restaurant and it was beautiful to behold. We sat at the bar and the bartender served as our primary server. True to Montreal style we were greeted a blend of French and English which we so enjoyed about Montreal. For drinks, the wife started with a martini and I started with a mezcal margarita which was exceptional and had a distinctive flavor. As the food started to flow, we transitioned to a Rosé which paired beautifully with the dishes. For food we chose the 4-course dinner, which was a rich and savory journey across a myriad of flavors and combinations like I've never tasted before. In full transparency I will say 1 of the courses was not a hit for us (it was early in the meal), but the food on the whole was spectacular and captured the essence of fine Montreal dining with a distinctive French feel that had us at times feeling like we were transported back to Paris. I'm not sure what exactly defines why a restaurant receives a Michelin star, but I'm certain I had a beautifully unique and connecting dining experience last night like I've never had before. The classic French charm, symphony of movement from the staff, and exceptional food created an experience that had the wife and I feeling a way like we've never felt before about a dining experience. In a word? Exceptional. read more
I'd probably want to give the restaurant a 4.5 rating. The people are extremely kind. The service was amazing. Everybody was very helpful and happy. The place was also very nice and intimate. The food was good. Some were hit or miss. The endive salad was just ok - not what I would call a Michelin star salad. The quenelle of mushrooms was very good. The crust was perfect. Inside was also very good. Then the poison en croute was ok. The fish was fresh, but flavors were mute. I think some acid was missing with this dish. The desert (hazelnut mousse) was absolutely delicious. Overall, the quality of cooking was excellent. I just wish the flavors for the main dishes varied a bit more. Also, I think it was a lot of food. Maybe a 3 course option at a bit lower price would have been better for me. read more
3 months ago
Service was *fantastic*, food was good. Enjoyed the chocolate mousse with blood orange, the leek & cheese amuse-bouche, the fresh bread, and the endive tart the most. Would I return? I don't think so unless it was a company-sponsored dinner. I wanted to try it once and I have. For the price and the Michelin star, I kind of expected to be more impressed with every course. The veal dish was beautiful but didn't do it for me. Cubes of veal tongue just weren't my thing. I did leave feeling full though so even though portion sizes were very small, it's all fine in the end. Used the bathroom twice (left and right). Both times clean but absolutely reeked (and not by my doing). An air purifier or extractor fan would definitely help. Nothing like a stinky bathroom to start and end your extravagant meal! read more
I went to St. Lawrence at the start of the year to have their limited time sugar cabin menu. It was an absolute treat! My wife and I enjoyed every course, but our favorites were the desserts! The pie was absolutely delicious and a couple months later we are still reminiscing about it. We felt the menu was priced reasonably for the quality of service and food. read more
I got a front row seat to the Michelin starred kitchen at this lovely French restaurant. It was so exciting to see the head chef in action along with the rest of the team. Everyone was so incredibly friendly and the service went above and beyond any expectations I had. Patrons at St Lawrence all had happy faces while indulging in their beautiful and tasty meals. The welcome bread is warm, fluffy and decadent. While I was there I enjoyed the gnocchi pasta. The sauce is what makes a meal and the French know how to make a sauce better then no other. Make sure to book ahead as this place fills up fast! read more
Really enjoyed this place. Five course fixed menu. Service is impeccable. Food was amazing, even for Vancouver. Untouchable if this was the states. It's kinda loud and crowded yet intimate if that makes any sense.. this place manages to pull it off. read more
This Michelin rated restaurant is very deserving of its recognition. The service was impeccable with just the right amount of attention and privacy. We sat at the counter and watched the chefs do their craft with precision and it seemed like they really were enjoying their work. The dishes were all amazing with great creativity, nice presentation, and wonderful flavors. read more
1 month ago
A one-Michelin-star French spot with an intimate rustic chic interior and changing tasting menu. Reservations are recommended, and the staff was friendly and welcoming throughout the meal, but slightly hard to get a hold of. While the experience had its highlights, the dishes were hit or miss for us. The venison wasn't great, and the pâté en croûte du jour didn't suit our taste. The perrale sole was dry and had a pasty texture, which was disappointing. On the brighter side, the chicken and foie-stuffed crêpe was flavorful, and the smoked trout was well-prepared. For dessert, the apple tart fell flat, but the chocolat noir was rich and satisfying. It's worth trying for its unique dishes and Michelin recognition, but it may not be for everyone. read more
This place is a must! I've had this place on my list to try for years, finally I can check it off my list. A Michelin star restaurant lived to its hype. Located in Gastown, street parking can sometimes be difficult but had no trouble. I've been to Québec and enjoy French Canadian cuisine. From entering to leaving this place impressed me. Small, intimate and charming decor. My group had the set menu, decently priced. The service was amazing. The menu was very rich, full of flavor, and filling. I will be back. read more
We celebrated our anniversary here & we enjoyed it! We did the 4 course menu and everything was wonderful. Service was great, and the ambiance was delightful. We didn't end up getting any drinks, but they looked splendid (a couple seated next to us got some). I'd say the crudo was the best dish! It had so many flavors and texture--I could eat 5 more of these dishes! We noticed that each plate highlighted sour flavoring profile, which was interesting. The only downside is the location. Walking over from gastown to here, we didn't feel safe but everything was great otherwise. read more
2 years ago
This is a 1-star Michelin French restaurant. It's a pretty small, dark, and intimate restaurant with an open kitchen concept. The ambiance didn't wow me like other Michelin restaurants, but service was good. The dinner is a 4-course meal with a few extra bites throughout the meal. You also have a choice to add on extras to the meal. We opted to add on the escargot, which was amazing and was my favorite dish of the night. The escargot was perfectly cooked and wasn't too greasy. It went so well with the small, flaky tart. For the 1st course, I got the squid noodles, and my bf got the beetroot tart. The squid noodles were unique and had a good, chewy texture. I also enjoyed the beetroot tart. The pastry part was so good. For the second course, I got the shrimp crepe, and my bf got the stuffed pasta with rabbit. The crepe was just ok. It wasn't particularly tasty, and it was also lukewarm. For the main course, I got the trio of veal, and my bf got the halibut. The veal was quite tasty. The veal tongue was super tender. The halibut was flaky and tender and smooth like butter For dessert, I got the the berry clafoutis, and my bf got the meringue. The texture of the clafoutis was great, kind of like a bread pudding. I don't particularly like meringue, but it tasted solid. There were a few extra items from the chef. There was a cheesy pastry bite that was sooo good. The extra dessert bites came with 1 sour dessert, and 1 fudge. I didn't like the sour one, but the fudge was delicious. Price per person was $125. The escargot was an additional $20. Overall, I enjoyed most of the items in the meal. Portion sizes are kinda small, so you won't feel stuffed if you go really hungry. read more
2 months ago
What an amazing dining experience from start to finish. Service was friendly and everything tasted amazing! My husband and I made a reservation for a Friday evening to celebrate our 5 year wedding anniversary. We booked in advance and it was prepaid. The only charges are for beverages and if you include any add-ons on the night of. Ambiance is really intimate and lovely for a date night. We found parking on the street, just be mindful that the area is a little sketch. We loved that they sprinkled in some tasty treats before the start of our 4 course meal. Portions were perfect and we were very satisfied with everything! read more
10 months ago
2 months ago
The meal we enjoyed at St Lawrence was truly one of the best I have ever had, and if the food wasn't enough, the hospitality was amazing beginning to end! It was a cozy and elegant vibe, and you can see the kitchen working their magic from every table. We opted for the wine pairing with each course, and they knocked it out of the park. Every course was an explosion of flavors, and it was fun to try things outside of my comfort zone. Really enjoyed the small bites in between courses as well. All in all, absolutely 5 stars and highly recommend. Be sure to book reservations well in advance! read more
5 months ago
An exceptional spot! Possibly the best meal ever! Worth the trip and would love to be back. Maybe off the beaten treck but worth the journey! Every bite was excellent and a true example of craft! Each dish somehow got better than the last! We did the wine pairing and were so glad as each sip complemented the food so well. Would go back and recommend to everyone! read more
This was a cozy yet elegant restaurant. It felt like what I would expect a French eatery would look like. Service was friendly and quick. Overall, the food was good although I felt like the second half of the meal had less tasty dishes than the first half. Amuse-bouche: *Savory cheese appetizer: This was not part of the tasting menu, but it was a nice savory treat. A warm burst of melted cheese with a buttery dough. *Corn mousse: I could have drunk a whole bowl of this. The dish was a play on corn on the cob. A creamy corn sauce mixed with mushrooms and corn kernels Course 1: We almost skipped the beetroot option because why would we choose the vegetarian dish over squid? Well, I am glad we tried both because both were quite enjoyable! *Cold noodles made out of tender fresh squid. It's a cold and light dish. *The beetroot tart was delicately sweet and contrasted well with the pastry crust. Course 2: We have never enjoyed any rabbit dish so both of us ordered the shrimp option, which was basically like a shrimp taco. Shrimp was very tender and fresh. The fresh flavor contrasted with the pickled vegetables. Lobster bisque was scant in quantity, but very creamy and flavorful. Course 3: We had been so impressed by the preceding dishes that the entrees were a bit of a letdown. They both tasted fine, but nothing particularly memorable. - Trio of veal: The different meats were all tender. Being veal, the meat itself is not as flavorful as traditional beef. I enjoyed the sauce, which was essentially french onion soup. - Halibut with a tomato bean sauce: I am not a huge fan of halibut, as it always tastes a little bit dry to me. Course 4: I am glad that we each chose a different dessert, but we would not have ordered either one a la carte. - Raspberry meringue: This was a very sweet dish without the usual excessive tartness of raspberry. That being said, it probably could have used a bit of tartness because the whole dessert tasted a bit one-note and sugary. - Pistachio ice cream: I liked the flavor of the ice cream, but the cake was an excessively dense texture read more
French dining at St Lawrence - its fine dining but at a very shady location so it kept us from trying them out for many years. We finally decided to just go for it. We found paid street parking right in front of the restaurant to avoid walking in that neighborhood much. Their menu changes monthly but you can check out their set menu online before making reservations. They will charge your CC for the full set menu cost plus tip and gratuity when you make the reservation. That was new to us since you're charged before actually going and it could be a month+ in advance depending when you make the reso. When we got there, the ambience inside was cozy and elegant. We sat at the bar and the bartender attended to us while making drinks for other patrons. It could get a bit loud at times making it difficult to hear when the servers came to describe our dishes. True to French cooking, a lot of the dishes were buttery/fatty and pastries were part of many dishes. I wouldn't say I liked all the food (e.g. the raw salmon we had came with a green earthy sauce that made the entire dish too fishy), but the majority of the dishes were unique and tasty enough, especially the honey covered pate and the duck entree. The many courses were filling and the cocktails were delicious; the gift at the end with a copy of the menu also added to the experience. I would recommend others to check them out. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
I thought St Lawerence was a solid restaurant that offered alot of yummy dishes in their pre-fixe menu. The ambiance vibes of classy French bistro and it is simultaneously romantic and intimate. The service was attentive and good. I thought that the food was high quality French cooking and you get to choose four dishes with a few extra bites along the way. I think that the highlights of the meal for me were the smoked steelhead trout as the first course, and then the Seared Gaspor pork as a main entree for two to share. The steelhead trout was melt-in-your-mouth soft and it was a really good pairing with the horseradish cream. Likewise, I enjoyed the pork dish that also had bread and a salad as sides since they balanced out the meatiness of the pork and potatoes. I thought the cooking was very homey-style that didn't feel too elevated or pretentious. Thankfully, I didn't feel too stuffed by the end and it was a good dining experience! read more
Definitely pricey but one of the best meals I've had in a while!! It's a fixed course menu which you purchase when you make a reservation but there are still some decisions you need to make in terms of choosing out of three options per course. There are also some add ons like an extra salad or oysters. I would say you'll likely be full without add ons and we were stuffed with like 2 extra add ons and some drinks. The food is elevated, as one would hope for the price, a bit of farm to table - so think like big leafy herbs and like really fresh big meat flavors like lamb, as well as Michelin vibes so like flan but make it savory and duck confit custard The worst thing about this place, other than the price tag lol, is it's location. Not a great neighborhood to walk around in read more
1 year ago
St. Lawrence. You can tell St. Lawrence, as least location-wise, was opened by a non-Vancouverite. 269 Powell Street near Gastown, old train tracks, and classic Chinatown sounds like a romantic location for a restaurant. (I am not going to hold it against St. Lawrence. It is common for realtors to omit the looming homeless issue spilling over from Main and Hastings......just don't go there on welfare day.) Through heavy gilled/barred door, I entered a cozy quaint home like interior decorated with Quebecois motifs of historica. French but Quebec. A bit of old building stuffiness is there. Could be the lack of ventilation or just the building. Our dear hostess asked where we want to sit as we were one of the first to arrive. The restaurant facing Powell Street and at times have colourful surprising elements, I blurted, "which ever has the least view of the homeless." She kindly accommodated. My previous visits to Montreal and France were encountered with certain Frenchness. French Quebecois tend to be xenophobic. Was surprised to learn this was not the case here. Chris, our server, warmed to us and turned out to be specular. Three staffs; our server, another server and the hostess constantly fussed over us, changing plates, pouring water, cleaning our tables ensuring it was clean course after course. Top notch service really. About the food, we had the prepaid tasting menu; a selection of appetizers, mains and desserts supplemented by 4 other courses created by the chef to delight us. We also added at duck pate in an eclair form. What can I say, everything was extraordinarily delicious. Balanced and light to the touch. Overall, the classic French cooking is infused with a sense of Canadiana, a fusion of our best multi-culturalism. The meal was like a grand concert performed by the masters. Not a single note was misplayed. Definitely worth a visit. read more
3 years ago
Ambiance: quaint and cozy - love the lighting and decorations. Great for a romantic date night or a classy girl's night out. Severs were super friendly. Then restaurant itself is pretty small so definitely try not to get there too early or it will be quite cramped (there's no waiting area so it may be uncomfortable for you) Food: Overall, really enjoyed the food. Highlights included: Amuse Bouche [5/5]: omg wow!! The chicken broth shot was sooo good - smelled divine, heart warming, full of flavor, clean - just a very good hearty broth. The pate (i believe it was guinea fowl pâté with brown sugar and butter) was also incredible. Savory with a kick of sweetness at the end, super creamy and rich. Pork Pate with Bread [5/5]: i have to say, STL makes incredible pâtés!! First time having a pork pate and it was delish. Good umami flavor, hint of sweetness, fragrant, paired nicely with the mustard and the fluffy, buttery bread. Lemon sorbet [5/5]: the palette cleanser before dessert. Light, fresh, not too sour - just really good after a rich meal. I think I may have enjoyed it more than the desserts tbh. Honorable mention: the Lamb. A huge compliment coming from me since I don't like lamb (cannot stand that gamey taste) but I tried a little bit from my bf and honestly could not taste the lambiness at all. Tender and juicy without the signature taste that makes me vomit. Bonus points for that!!! read more
Yelpies - HEADS UP ALERT - Take uber to get here! Leave the car at home - you'll thank me later. Romantics, this is not an area to walk around in after dinner! What I'm saying directly upfront is - this location is sketchy as hell!!! Be warned be alert! I'll just say it straight up - St Lawrence, you just have to get out of this area - it's absolutely uncomfortable & unsafe! Please note & I say this in italics - one must be "committed to the cause of coming here!" Now that's how to start a review ... right!?! Ha! Ok now with that outta the way ... let's get into this award winning top rated Canadian restaurant - Cuisine Québécoise. St Lawrence, is the river that runs through the French speaking province of Quebec, providing a vital trade route. We here in Vancouver however, have the magnifique St Lawrence restaurant. This spot has been on my radar even before I went to - Ask for Luigi, just nearby, a few months ago. See that review - don't miss out! St Lawrence is a small restaurant so you definitely must make reservations. They require payment upfront online & you will get a set menu at a mouth watering cost of $$$ (aka Bill Gates money) per person. You will need to have the E.B.T. card. The Eat Better Today card aka - Visa, Mastercard, Amex, will get you through the door. See all the details on the website. I would seriously give St Lawrence - 7 out of 5 Stars - but what holds me back is - location. Despite that, I can honestly say that my experience here was absolutely sublime! We had the Saumon Sockeye Confit, Agneau Confit (Lamb), Poitrine de Canard (duck), Morue a la Dieppoise(cod), Riz au lait (rice pudding) & Tarte au sirop d'erable. Each item had such a unique flavour & the sauces accompanying each plate - simply magnifique! The ooohhhs & aaahhhs coming out of me - you don't wanna know! This is fine dining so portion size tends to be on the smaller side. I highly recommend going with a few menu add-ons, at cost but could help ease the hunger pains after you've eaten through the main course. The famous Michelin Guide (all kinds of reviews but especially highlights top restaurants) began in France as a way to increase demand for cars & tires. Eventually Michelin would add restaurant reviews to the guide via a 1 - 3 star ranking system, with 3 stars being the top mark. Whoda thunk it that a tire company would become the top notch worldwide restaurant guide!? The Michelin Guide (for the very first time) has just landed in Vancouver & St Lawrence made it onto the list of - must try restaurants! Bravo!!! I'll be honest I haven't ever followed the Michelin Guide until now. I just love to eat excellent tasty food no matter the restaurant. Yelpies don't be late to the dance like I was! Get here yesterday & come out of the dark! Remember to apply your - savoir faire! Merci. read more
8 months ago
We had a wholesome meal for our anniversary. When you reserve a table here, you pay up front the price plus tax and tip for the tasting menu, and we had choices of adding other dishes along the meal. We were most impressed with the scallop crudo, duck breast, and layered root vegetables. It was fun. Expect to spend 2 hours here. read more
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