Chongqing Bistro - Vancouver

Located in the heart of International Village at 88 West Pender near Chinatown, you will find the hidden gem that is Chongqing Szechuan Bistro. Despite making reservations with Groupons, the restaurant was surprisingly empty. The decor was unique and reminiscent of a 70's discotheque, but still very charming and comfortable. The food was absolutely delicious and ranks among the best meals we have ever had. Don't miss out on this culinary experience!

After catching a movie at the cinema, we decided to grab a bite to eat at a restaurant. Upon entering, we were seated in a spacious dining room with a fully stocked bar. Although there was an outdoor terrace, it was empty despite the pleasant weather. I assumed they sometimes have music or performances on the stage I noticed. The washroom was clean. We ordered three dishes - fried rice, ginger beef, and kung pao chicken. Despite recently returning from Szechuan, we found the dishes to be lacking in spice but still delicious and well-prepared. The ingredients seemed fresh. The service was excellent, and we plan on returning in the future.

We loved the chili fish and the green tea cake with strawberries and whipped cream, but the standout dish was the ginger beef. It was absolutely delicious. The service was attentive. The atmosphere was somewhat quiet for a Friday night, but it's definitely worth a visit.

We visited her second day open and came to an early dinner before a show in Rogers Arena. We tried to order wine, but although they have an alcohol license, they had no wine delivery yet. I asked if we could bring our own wine; they agreed, and for a $10 cork fee I was able to enjoy a chilled bottle from the liqueur right down from the restaurant. Very accommodating. We ordered vegetarian spring rolls for an appetizer. Hot and crispy with a beautiful mixture of vegetables inside; Sauce was delicious. Good size (4 big) for an appetizer. We had divided the grilled Cashew dishes, snowbows and rice between 2 people. There was a lot of food and we took some leftovers home. Fresh ingredients, very tasty, not spicy (they have a lot of dishes). Service was excellent. The food immediately arrived, water and wine glasses carefully refilled if necessary. The prices were reasonable. The only slight problem was that the washing room was not renovated to the same standard as the dining room.

Deep within the 'International Village' complex at 88 West Pender near Chinatown is a jewel - the Chongqing Szechuan Bistro. We had Groupons so we made reservations, but the restaurant was nearly empty. Very interesting decor (a mid-70's discotheque?), very nice and comfortable. And the food - so incredibly delicious, right up there with best.meal.ever :-) Spare no spicy!