Gastro-Awesome: WildTale Coastal Grill
A Nod Towards Coastal Living.
WildTale Coastal Grill isn’t what one might expect from a Yaletown establishment, honestly it’s all that and more.
LBH had the pleasure of dining with WildTale on opening night, nothing short of spectacular service. Jake & Jesse each showcasing the fine talents of a well-oiled team. You see, although this is a newly established restaurant it’s really the culmination of years of hard work, planning and success for foodie entrepreneurs John Crook & Erik Heck of The Flying Pig.
After successfully opening three locations of The Flying Pig ® business partners Erik Heck & John Crook have realized another dream, taking over restaurant that they previously worked in together and turning it into something new. Opening WildTale in the former Glowbal Grill space, a place both had worked and grew their respective careers previously, was a considerable check off. “Every chef will tell you it’s a fantasy to take over your old boss’s restaurant.” writes John. John & Erik are incredibly excited to see how this evolves.
It’s in the details, Darling.
Back to back experiences at the same restaurant? WE WENT THERE. We couldn’t help but come back only to dive into the remainder of the menu. With items such as the Prawn Cocktail, jumbo poached prawns, horseradish cocktail sauce exhibiting some of the largest and freshest prawns i’ve tasted. A selection of Honey Muscles from Quadra island, as an island girl, that’s nice to sea. It’s not all about the bass though, there is a Beef Tenderloin Carpaccio; w/ truffle aioli, mushroom, arugula salad that literally melted over my enthusiastic palate.
An excerpt from WildTale:
WildTale Coastal Grill celebrates the coastal regions of the world. Featuring fresh seafood as well as favorites from farm and field, paired with great wines, delicious local beers and refreshing, creative cocktails in a polished yet relaxed room.
Wine lovers refer to the ‘terroir’ – environmental conditions like soil and climate that contribute to the flavor and aroma imparted to grapes grown there. At WildTale, we love the term ‘merroir’ – flavors imparted by the sea, from the cold, crisp, clear Pacific Ocean to the wild, powerful richness of the Atlantic. This applies to land as well as sea and is referenced in featured items like Yakima Valley Lamb and the bevy of local suppliers and abundant organic produce.
Think wild and fresh seafood dished up in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Inspired by East Coast hospitality, it’s a place where friends return to share stories and connect over great food.
A few other foodie mentionables: Baked Dungeness Crab Cakes; jalapeño aioli, roasted red bell pepper coulis, Dungeness Crab Cobb Salad; iceberg lettuce, blue cheese, avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, egg, smoked bacon, basil vinaigrette, Pan Seared Haida Gwaii Halibut; dungeness crab crust, spicy penne alla ‘puttanesca’, basil beurre blanc and finally one of my favorites when done well – Scallops Ceviche; citrus & cilantro. Simple. Classic.
Currently there are no reservations, simply come in and join the fun. You will immediately notice the atmosphere, it’s rustic meets the sea. The interior is accented with sea hewn wood, vintage prints, elegant lighting and a team of individuals that imbued hospitality and authenticity.
WildTale is located in Yaletown, 1079 Mainland St. Vancouver, BC. 604.428.9211
WildTale Coastal Grill celebrates the coastal regions of the world. Featuring fresh seafood as well as favorites from farm and field, paired with great wines, delicious local beers and refreshing, creative cocktails in a polished yet relaxed room.
See you soon!
Words by | Deanna Beaudoin