RESTAURANTS
Every weekend this winter, the live cameras on the Cypress Mountain website seem to be showing a large number of people on the West Vancouver ski hill. This means that immediately after darkness descends, outdoor adventurers inevitably find themselves caught in long lineups to cross the Lions Gate and Ironworkers bridges. In fact, winter North Shore traffic tie-ups in the late afternoon and early evening have been among the worst in the region since the pandemic began.
Who knew that it could be bumper to bumper going down sleepy 11th Street in West Van? That’s become the reality as après-ski motorists try to stay off the even more crowded Taylor Way. But there’s a way to ease the pain of gridlock, and that’s by avoiding the bridges during rush hours and going out for a bite in West Van. Here are four recommendations.
SWAD INDIAN KITCHEN 1734 Marine Drive
If you like your Indian cuisine on the spicy side, it’s offered here in an elegant darkened room. Owner Kamal Mroke has been in the business for decades and he always greets customers with a smile. Recommended dish: You can’t go wrong with the Lamb Korma, which is cooked in a cashew-nut gravy.
CHEZ MICHEL 1373 Marine Drive
Those who prefer French food and white tablecloths can drop by Chez Michel. Here, too, the owner, Michel Segur, is a veteran restaurateur with a proper French pedigree, hailing from a village near Toulouse. Recommended dish: Why not try the Roast Duck Breast in Orange Sauce? Duck may be high in fat and it’s been known to increase cholesterol levels, but hey, it’s also a great source of protein and iron, making it ideal for some after a day at Cypress.
HEIRLOOM AMBLESIDE
1390 Marine Drive
Across the street from Chez Michel is an ideal casual eatery for vegetarians and vegans. Just belly up to the counter and place your order.
Recommended dish: The meatless cheeseburger may be a little messy to eat but it’s delicious.
BEACH HOUSE RESTAURANT 150 25th Street
If you’re in a carnivorous mood after a day on the mountain, there’s always the Beach House Restaurant. It’s not cheap, and there’s not much of a view at night, but the portions will kill any snowboardinginduced hunger pangs.
Recommended dish: It’s pretty basic, but the Steak Frites is as good as it gets, with a juicy piece of sirloin served on top of garlic bread, accompanied by a heaping plate of fries.
By the time you finish dining at any of these establishments, the traffic will have melted like the snow in spring, making for a much more pleasant drive home over the bridges.