No, we’re not urging you to head off to some floral shop for your next foodie fix… we’re talking about the latest buzzed-about spot to open up on the fringes of Gastown. Located in the former digs of HouseXGuest along Water Street, amidst a string of trademark brick buildings, Blacktail Florist is a breath of fresh air at 322 Water Street.
Once you’ve entered you feel as though you’ve been transported thanks to the unique design (courtesy of Craig Stanghetta of Ste. Marie design firm) who worked to bring a sense of the outdoors in. There is a decidedly Scandinavian feel to the sleek, simplistic space – with a hint of a rustic/woodland feel, plenty of living greenery and floral accents top it off.
Stanghetta’s use of organic and natural materials helps evoke the comfort and freshness of a woodland grove. Blacktail’s minimalist space is lined with original art deco windows framed by built-in vitrines; frosted glass boxes house delicate blooms, objects and oddities. There’s plenty for the eye to take in.
Guests are encouraged to sit back and relax with a glass of wine and partake in a satisfying meal in the restaurant’s warm and inspiring setting, noshing on a menu that shines a spotlight on some of BC’s top ingredients and hidden gems.
Chef Jimmy Stewart, co-owner and former Top Chef Canada contestant, has created a culinary journey for guests with dishes that are both tantalizing and inventive. Stewart is a true champion of British Columbian and Canadian cuisine, and has worked to gather the finest ingredients our region has to offer – presenting a fresh take on familiar dishes and delving into uncharted culinary territory we haven’t seen in a while.
Try the salmon belly with crispy shallots, dill, pop rocks, and endive; mushroom caps stuffed with kale and cured duck; their ‘Knuckle Sandwich’; buttered peas with lavender and walnuts; braised bison brisket with Earl grey, Swiss chard and crispy potatoes.
Not one to let palates go dry, Blacktail Florist features a carefully curated wine list featuring BC wines and bubbly as well as local craft beer and cocktails with regionally inspired names like The Baden Powell and Giant Cedars.
Blacktail Florist is located at 200 – 322 Water Street and is open Wednesday to Sunday from 5pm to 12pm. Make reservations online and find additional information here.
Have you had the opportunity to indulge in Blacktail Florist’s fine dining? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.