"After opening Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Restaurant in the Shangri-La Hotel (and before that, working at the well-accoladed Fat Duck in the UK), chef Lee Cooper was ready for a place of his own. Enter L’Abattoir, a Gastown restaurant specializing in French-inspired West Coast cuisine that, more than 13 years later, continues to receive recognition as one of the country’s best. A striking atrium, warm wood tones, and industrial touches all greet guests as they enter and settle in (as does a fun playlist shuffling rap and hip-hop). Choose from the a la carte or nine-course tasting menu. Either way, you’re in for seasonal surprises and frequent changes, reaping the benefits of the relationships Cooper and team have formed with local farmers, fisheries and producers. Even still, there are some favorites that tend to stay put—namely the Steak Diane and the baked Pacific oysters (with black truffle and garlic butter). Don’t miss dessert from Pastry Chef Oliver Bernardino, whose seasonal, intricate creations give wow factor to the finale (we see you, salted honey and bourbon mille-feuille)." - Guy Saddy, Nicole Schnitzler
