Vancouver Good

News broke earlier this year that the Cannery Seafood Restaurant will be closing its doors on Commissioner drive after 39 years of business.

As a landmark fine dining restaurant in Vancouver, the Cannery has been packed with people returning for one last visit before their final day of service on March 27, 2010.

I went to the Cannery for my first visit a couple months ago, and it was a fun experience with good, but not memorable food.

The most fun part of the Cannery is getting there. Located on Port Metro Vancouver land, it’s a fine dining restaurant with an amazing waterfront view, industrial neighbors, and a security entrance. As you drive up to the security area, you are met with a security gate, an intercom, and….nobody. We look around for somebody to talk to and our search is interrupted by the crackly intercom coming to life asking…”where are you going?”

“The Cannery” we yell, asking the intercom more than telling it. One more intercom crackle and the gate opens, giving us access. We drive off without another word, all of us thinking that was too easy.

A short drive down the road and we find the Cannery, looking like a lit up oasis amongst the desolate surroundings. The place is packed, but welcoming and warm. We’re directed to the bar while our table is prepared, but I linger in the front hall and read through the thick guest book full of well wishes and signatures from guests.

After a few minutes we’re whisked to our table on the second floor of the restaurant overlooking the water. I have to say, i was surprised by the informal feeling of the restaurant. To set the scene, think of a large restaurant that’s rustic feeling with lots of wood beams and stone. Then picture the beautiful water view. Then add in huge tables of parties, balloons tied to tables, and waiters in white coats. I wasn’t feeling it.

In terms of food – it’s all about the lobster oil at The Cannery, which is luscious and so good with bread, salad…everything. Other items we tried:

• Oyster Motoyaki, baked with wasabi mayonaise and pickled ginger. Good flavour, but it was served a little over-cooked and lukewarm.
• Lobster Bisque – rich and flavourful
• BC Sablefish with a miso glaze
• Rack of lamb and fresh arctic char – each cooked perfectly but with unmemorable accompaniments
• Dessert was a highlight, particularly Jacques’ Favourites, featuring sampler sizes of blood orange crème brulee, caramel pecan ice cream, and a chocolate and hazelnut praline

Overall, the food was fresh, but not overly memorable and not worth the price for me. I’m still regretting not having the Salmon Wellington, the restaurant’s signature dish. However, the Cannery is  partly about the food and partly about the experience and overall it delivered a satisfying experience. Go for the experience while you can.

On the way home from the restaurant? No need to talk to an intercom – the gate opened on its own and were on our way.

The Cannery Seafood House
2205 Commissioner Street, Vancouver
(604) 254-9606 or Toll Free : 1-877-254-9606
Make sure you read the directions on how to get there.