Bishop’s decides to close after an incredible run
One of Vancouver’s legendary dining establishments is closing its doors this summer. Kitsilano’s well-loved Bishop’s Restaurant (2183 West 4th Avenue) has announced that it will be closing for good on August 1, after 35 years in business. Owner and chef John Bishop opened his eponymous restaurant in 1985, and celebrated its milestone 30th anniversary in 2015. It’s won a multitude of Golden Plates awards over the years.
The 75-year-old Welsh native has decided to retire, declaring in a statement that he wishes to write and spend more time with his family.
“It has been a terrific run,” said Bishop. “After 35 years, our customers have become good friends, but now I want to spend more time with my own family and get to work on another book. I also want to use these next few months to say thank you to my customers and our entire team, the people who made all of this possible.
“My name may be on the door, but Bishop’s is all about a team effort, and that includes the dozens of local farms and suppliers who provide us with the incredible seasonal ingredients we prepare for your plate,” he added.
In interviews with media outlets, Bishop also left no doubt that rising property taxes, higher rent, and the general cost of operations factored into his decision.
Before Vancouver’s farm-to-table
I want to find some special ways to...thank our customers
– John Bishop
cuisine blew up, Bishop’s was already known for its signature dishes that used seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Many celebrities have visited the restaurant over the years, including former prime minister Pierre Trudeau and his son, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Hollywood stars such as Robert De Niro, Sean Penn, and Goldie Hawn have also walked through Bishop’s doors.
There are still a couple of months before the iconic eatery bows out of Vancouver’s restaurant scene, and a few final events are being planned.
“I want to find some special ways to celebrate and thank our customers,” said Bishop. “I might even try and get some of our alumni chefs back together for one incredibly memorable meal that hits all the high notes of the past 35 years.”