Wildebeest restaurant is now officially open at 120 West Hastings Street. Led by Vancouver service veterans and co-owners James Iranzad (Abigail’s Party) and Josh Pape (The Diamond), Wildebeest will offer unabashedly adventurous cuisine set against the history of Vancouver’s brick and beam Gastown neighbourhood.
Focused on whole-animal cookery, Wildebeest’s menu is prepared with the utmost integrity by Executive Chef David Gunawan. Working closely with surrounding suppliers such as Six Masters’ Farm, SOLEfood farm, and Klippers Organics, every dish is thoughtfully nurtured from field to finish; this includes raising animals in conjunction with local farmers, with the diets for each and every animal on the menu personally chosen by Chef Gunawan. Guests can expect to taste dishes as diverse as pork jowl served with long pepper scented oats and bourbon barrel aged maple syrup; lamb tartare finished with pickled onions, nasturtium emulsion and herb croutons; roasted organic beef tongue with mushroom marmalade, watercress and sherry jus; and scallop crudo served with radishes, rhubarb, basil and Antonio Pettenicchi olive oil.
Wildebeest also houses an intimately set wine bar. Located in the underbelly of the restaurant, the bar has its own menu focused on wine and cocktail pairings, along with live piano player. For those interested in flights or to try something of limited edition, a 12-bottle By The Glass® wine-dispensing machine will feature unique and rare selections. The unique cocktail program utilizes the freshest ingredients available and is carefully crafted by co-owner and 2010’s Vancouver Magazine Bartender of the Year Josh Pape.
Set in a refurbished 19th century building, Wildebeest’s industrial inspired design highlights the original character of the heritage space with reclaimed wood, exposed brick, and vintage style tile work. Diners will have the opportunity to enjoy the multi-level restaurant in a variety of settings including 22 seats in the front of house bar and lounge, 65 seats in the main dining room – featuring a T-shaped chef’s table and open concept kitchen – and 50 seats in the romantically lit wine bar.
“Josh and I are very excited to introduce Wildebeest to Vancouver,” says co-owner James Iranzad, “We can’t wait for guests to experience and enjoy our vision of refined comfort food.”
Wildebeest is now open for dinner Tuesday to Sunday from 5pm to 12am, and soon brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Reservations can be made by phoning the restaurant at 604-687-6880 or online. For more information visit www.wildebeest.ca
