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Black & Blue
Category: Restaurants Steakhouses Steakhouses [Edit]
1032 Alberni StVancouver, BC V6E 1A3
Neighbourhoods: West End, Downtown
(604) 637-0777
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11:30 am - 12 am
Sat-Sun 4:30 pm - 12 am
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Trendy, Upscale
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
57 reviews for Black & Blue
57 reviews in English
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Review from Ying Ying L.
Vancouver, BC
5/19/2012
I have been waiting to go for dinner ever since it opened in late October. My first dinner there did not disappoint at all. The service was the usual outstanding service I've come to expect at all Glowbal restaruants and the venue was stunning. It was a perfect spot for our New Year's dinner. Being that it's New Year's Eve, they had a shorten menu, and foie gras was not on it. I was a little sad as I've been looking forward to trying the seared foie gras ever since I saw it on the menu. Luckily, the chef agreed to make it for our table! I was so excited and it lived up to my expectations. Next came the steak and I went with the PEI Blue Ribbon ribeye. This was hands down the best steak I have ever had! I highly recommend this restaurant.
First meal at the new Black+Blue was lunch and it didn't disappoint. The food was superb and the venue was beautiful. Definitely on my top 3 restaurants in Vancouver! -
Review from Anna P.
Vancouver, BC
5/5/2012
Ok, I've heard my fair share of horror stories from here. Coworkers who've ate at Black & Blue, have said the service was bad, the food was cold, they've had to wait a long time to get their entrees...however when I went with a group of 10, we didn't have to wait too long for our meal. The servers were friendly / helpful and the meal (beef wellington) wasn't cold, but then again it didn't feel like it was straight from the oven. It was an OK experience for me.
Upside: the decor is beautiful and looks very much like a ritzy Steakhouse. I've heard they've spent a hefty sum on creating a patio at the top of the building...and that I will have to check out this summer! -
Review from S V.
Vancouver, BC
5/4/2012
I was hesitant and almost nervous to try this place. Yes nervous because I thought Black & Blue would be one of those snobby places where everyone stares you down for not carrying a designer purse and waiters looking down on you for not ordering the $200 bottle of wine. But, I think it's safe to say that I was worrying too much.
Don't get me wrong, it's still a lot of old wealthy men in double-breasted suits and women who are looking for that type of crowd. But it's truly a great experience to dine here if you're looking for something extravagant.
Service: Attentive and polite. Nothing special to really note here. But it's the usual formula for the Glowbal Group: attractive hostess in a tight dress, and charming polite male servers.
Food: It's a true steakhouse in that if you order a steak that's exactly what you'll get: a piece of steak. Nothing else, unless you order sides. I ordered the crab salad which was really good for a salad. My steak was a bit too chewy for me but it had a great smokey flavour. Note: portions here are pretty big.
Atmosphere: Okay one huge problem I had with this place...the MUSIC. Oh god, I was so confused when Boyz II Men suddenly started playing right after a track from Hall & Oats. Nothing against those bands, but it was not at all what I wanted to be listening to at a high-end steakhouse. What's even crazier is that on their website they ask "Like our vibe?" and let you listen to their music list... https://client.musicdi...
Apart from the music issue, this place is worth splurging on. Perfect place to go if you want to impress someone like clients or friends from out of town. -
Review from Jacob K.
Updated - 5/2/2012
When you belch a few hours after lunch and can still taste the burger, you know that is the sign of a good burger.
Here is the only negative thing I can say about Black & Blue's B+B Burger: it can be a bit messy to eat, so cut it in half.
Meat that is tender and juicy; a brioche bun that is soft and slightly sweet; the deep fried onion ring to satisfy that craving for deep-fried goodness. One of the most delicious things I have ever tasted. Ever. Including most desserts.
I've been to Black and Blue 4 times in the last 3 weeks and I've always ordered this burger. I've had it with the fries, which were good. Just good. Having it with brussel sprouts is even better.
The brussel sprouts: charred enough to caramelize them. Capers add a bit of a salty taste and the lemon juice adds a nice citric twist to it, making the dish a very nice and "healthy" substitute to the french fries.
The service is good. Ask for Elena - she's very friendly.
Ambience-wise, Black & Blue has the aura of a real classy dining establishment - like something out of the 1980s when the power lunch was all the rage. Come to Black & Blue and relive the power lunch without the big shoulders or puffy hair as found in "Working Girl".Listed in: Best Boigers
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/15/2012
As the quest for the perfect burger continues, I have found a worthy contender. Chef Josh Wolfe has… Read more »
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Review from David R.
North Vancouver, BC
4/29/2012
Went here last week for the first time. One of the Glowbal group, I think. That means a lively, loud room, trendy looking waiters and waitresses and generally good, but maybe not spectacular food. Think, steak house for the late stage hipster, early stage urbanite set. When you are at the age that you finally toss your Keds and start wearing real shoes when you go out.
Started with a very original cocktail which was very nicely done, and an caesar salad appetizer. The salad was soggy and over-wrought with dressing. Did not finish it, but sent it off to an early grave.
Main course much better. When in Rome, ... so I ordered a NY cut steak served simple with a little peppercorn sauce. We had a large table, eight people, so we shared a number of side plates. The mushrooms were spiced and were excellent. the frites were ok and the other side dishes fulfilled the task without detracting from the steak. The steak was done perfectly. My only complaint was that it was huge, could not finish it, and couldn't figure out a way to sneak home the balance without embarrassing myself in front of my business associates. My dog, Chiko, who would have been the beneficiary of the doggie bag, was deeply disappointed in my lack of initiative.
I thought the service was middling. Our waitress looked the part, but seemed a little clued out. Our dinner chair, who ordered the wine, was a little put off in that the wine came a bit too warm. I noticed it a tad, but not measurably.
This place is not cheap, so the food and service should be dead on. It was good, but would not be rushing back. -
Review from D L.
Vancouver, BC
4/19/2012
As I was walking to the restaurant I noticed that it was right beside Kobe Steakhouse and Coast (another Glowbal establishment)...blinded by the Bentleys, Ferraris, Phantoms etc out front of the place I finally walk in.
Food: Was disappointing. I shared the $35 steak dinner with the the added $10 mini King Crab legs...such as rip off. Our server sold us that they were HUGE...was only 2oz of actual crab for $20 extra. We also had the $14 nachos...there were only 10 large chips with some chill on it and cheese. 2/5*
Drinks: Had a caesar which was too spicy and a nice bottle of Red. 2/5*
Ambiance: This is a nice room...tall windows lots of natural light for the most part...if you are sitting downstairs trying to get to the washroom is a bit of a journey...the staff is there to guide you on that journey as you have at least 3 of them tell you where it is on the way...the cliental there seemed quite pretentious as did the menu. 3/5*
Service: Our server was very nice and attentive...the service was friendly, quick and with a smile...but didn't like how i got sold on the crab legs...bah! 4/5*
Price: Was really expensive for what you get...Keg Yaletown is a nicer restaurant and has WAY better steaks...B&B is VERY expensive for what you get...but when you have all of those fancy cars out front you can charge whatever you want. 1/5
Overall: 2.5/5*
Probobly won't come back unless someone is paying! -
Review from Katie F.
4/23/2012
I love steak and when I had the chance to come here on someone else's tab, how could I resist?!
It's the latest addition to the Glowbal family and I was curious how the steakhouse would compare to some of the others in town (Gotham, Hy's, etc...) It's definitely the trendiest of the steakhouses - doesn't have the classic feel of Gotham or a NY steakhouse. It's got an upscale club kind of vibe and is very loud. Like the multilayer levels with different types of seating, and several private room options upstairs.
The food itself is okay. I loved the blue cheese bread appy and the variety of starters was pretty good. The steak isn't my favorite in town... Maybe I'm biased, but who the heck promotes their steak being from PEI? I've been to PEI and my in laws are close to there, and there's lobster and potatoes, but definitely not steak! It's an okay steak but honestly, Gotham does it better in town.
I thought the sides were lower quality. Funny mix of corn, some slightly overlooked broccoli, and decent potatoes. I was pretty full by the end of the main course so I skipped dessert.
You're paying for the atmosphere and it's trendy and busy, but I don't think I'd come back on my own dime.
Service overall very good. No issues and it's definitely different that the hostess goes into a bit of detail about the decor and fridges as you're taken to your table. Smooth table service. Several private dining options and tech side is good as well there, so I would consider this venue if you require that. -
Review from Jocelyn L.
Mount Pleasant, Vancouver, BC
4/22/2012
Impressive dining room, meat display, wine display and chandeliers. We sat at a two seater on the second level overlooking the bar. Only issue was the overhead glaring light. Although the light was positioned over the table, when I leaned in it shone on my forehead - not so romantic. I would have preferred a softer light. Music was too loud, so had to lean in to chat.
Chateaubriand for two was perfectly cooked medium rare as requested. It was classically cut at our table and tasted amazing. Lyonnaise potatoes, steak cut fries and the pan seared fois gras was super tasty.
Service was excellent. -
Review from Florence C.
Vancouver, BC
4/29/2012
Too disappointing. Went there once and never again. Place may be grand and pretty but the food is too bad considering part of Glowbal group.
- Lobster bisque: Fail. Extremely salty and tasted like canned soup
- Steak sandwich: Fail big time. Meat was extremely tough, dry, and baguette was hard as rock. -
Review from Rex S.
Vancouver, BC
5/13/2012
Just went to black and blue for the second time last night.
First off, the first time I went there it was pretty disappointing.
So me and 6 of my friend decided to go there last night.
First time I went I had the lobster bisque which was not to my liking at all. I felt that the soup was more cream than lobster bisque.
Last night I had the French onion soup and I must say it was actually pretty good not to thick but not to watery. Not bad.
The first time I went there me and a buddy decided to share the tomahawk (had it at glowbal before it was giant) when we got our steaks it was tiny. I was shocked so I knew last night I wasn't ordering that again. I ended up getting the angus bone in rib eye and it was great. Great flavors and really tender. I would order than again hands down.
All in all it looks like its gotten better. I know the owner had to step in and help out when it wasn't doing well when they first opened so I think he's doing a good job at getting the place up to par with the rest of the glowbal restaurants. -
Review from Nicole F.
4/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
I never thought I'd end up in a steakhouse like this as I'm a vegetarian, but we had a work lunch here the other day so I was curious to see how it would go for me.
It seems like you'd probably be fine coming here if you don't eat meat, but you love mushrooms. I despise the little things, so of course I felt like the most obnoxious person on the planet. The only non-meat dish aside from 1 appetizer and maybe a few of the salads is a Mushroom Risotto, which might have had chicken stock in it. I didn't bother asking. I think one of the specials also had something to do with mushrooms.
Cocktails: I started with the Aviation which was delicious! It's a gin cocktail with a lot of lemon, maraschino and violette liqueurs, and a maraschino cherry in the glass. I downed it pretty fast and moved on to the Black & Blueberry Martini which was DELICIOUS! And dangerous! It's made with Belvedere vodka, muddled blackberries, blueberries, blackberry liqueur, and lemon juice. This was quite sweet but in the best way possible. A big hit around our corner of the table. I finished with a Pick Me Up which is espresso and Baileys on ice. Always a pleaser.
Appetizer: I went with the B&B Blue Cheese Bread, but only because it was more exciting than a salad. It wasn't exactly what I expected, but it was alright. I was assuming it would be more melty cheese focused, but I think the cheese was baked into it. It was pretty much a mini loaf of bread with subtle cheese flavour that came with some chive oil on the side. I wouldn't order it again.. as an appetizer. Unless maybe I was sharing.
Entree: I ended up just asking them to make me the Grilled Chicken Sandwich minus the chicken. They were nice and added in some extra veggies for me. The sandwich was pretty tasty. It had grilled eggplant, tomato, red peppers, cucumber and some kind of sandwichy spread things. The fries had a weird aftertaste, and I was already pretty full from my earlier loaf of bread that I gave them to someone else.
Dessert: I ordered the special, which is new to Black & Blue and doesn't actually have a name yet. It was cut up strawberries and a layer of lemon cream in the middle, simple but refreshing and delicious! I know I'm forgetting some of the ingredients because it isn't on the menu, but it was quite good. I wanted to eat 2 of them. I think most of our party ordered this!
Service: Our waitress was lovely, seemed a little bit serious at the beginning but she warmed up near the end and made a few jokes. Maybe she was just nervous because of our giant party. She was great and let us all know which B&B dishes and steak cuts get the best responses.
I doubt I'd go back unless it was for another work function, but that isn't B&B's fault. Everyone else in my party absolutely loved the food. I'm just a downer vegetarian. Hah. -
Review from Felicity D.
Vancouver, BC
4/3/2012
The food, 4 stars. The atmosphere, 4 stars. The service, 3 stars. Value, 2 stars. The company "tip-share" policy (see below) negative stars... dragging it down to 2 stars overall. I had heard stories about Glowbal's tip-out policy before the CBC story and was told about servers owing money to the house at the end of their shift because a large table had shorted them a tip and the tips from the other tables were not enough to cover the tip-out the server was required to pay even if the large table had not tipped her anything.
Here's the CBC story:
http://www.cbc.ca/news... -
Review from Ellen L.
3/10/2012 1 Check-in Here
At the conclusion of dinner, we were handed a card inviting us to do a candid review of Black & Blue on Yelp. I actually squealed a little. This practice is mutually beneficial for both the business and Yelp. In fact, it should be more widespread. Anyway, dear ladies and gents, here is my candid review of B&B:
We were here for a special occasion dinner. This is a pretty hip and happening restaurant, so remember to dress to impress. The staff are impeccably dressed, so I'm glad I at least made an effort. :) The animals I was about to consume were proudly displayed in a meat locker in the middle of the main floor. Over the top meat extravagance! Mmmmmmm, moo moo cow.
I had the PEI Blue Ribbon New York Strip. Grilled perfectly to my specifications. Very tender and juicy. Not the best steak I've had (Calgary Saltlik and The Keg Whistler hollaaaa!), missing that special something something, but still very good. Came with 3 sauces, but to be honest, I preferred mine with just a splash of ground pepper.
We also got a couple sides. Brussels Sprouts were excellent - first time I had them actually - very pungent flavour with the addition of capers. Steak Fries were very unexciting.
I'll also give the starters a quick mention. Cheese Bread tasted like Asian bakery buns. French Onion Soup was very strong, in fact they could afford to water that down a little.
The service was impeccable. Our server, Chris, was 5 stars great! He was very informative about the menu and made sure we were taken care of. We were fully stuffed (and really should've ordered less food), but was given a complimentary dessert for the special occasion. Thank you. We had a great time here. -
Review from Gina I.
2/21/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I was skeptical. I always am. Honestly though, Glowbal Group has pretty solid food so I wasn't that scared. Hy's is still the best in steak, no one can beat them, sorry.
I was here for a friends birthday in the private room and we all shared platters of food..
However, the steak here was awesome. It was a cow from PEI, we were told. Frankly, I don't care where it came from, it was perfectly medium rare.
My favourite appetizers had to be the mushrooms with crab, the steakhouse nachos and the tuna.. my gosh it was just all so good. For dessert there was baked alaska, some sort of almond cake and a coconut cream pie. It was all amazing.
I can't say much for the ambiance as we were away from the main dining room, but I have to say that plastic surgery in Vancouver is becoming more prevalent and without trying to sound like a judgmental person, well I just did, so.. -
Review from Morris C.
Mount Pleasant, Vancouver, BC
2/22/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Wonderful steaks for sure...try the PEI blue ribbon!
My fave sauce is the chimichurri but be sure to ask for a sampler of the sauces (there are 4). They also do a mean table side ceaser salad!
The room is 3 floors and oozes sex- even if it's mostly filled with stuffy suited business guys and cougars. -
Review from Jeff S.
Vancouver, BC
3/17/2012
Not bad, but this restaurant does not quite seal the deal. I love steak and I love it Chicago blue rare. This place is a premium and while it is way better than the Keg, which is very mediocre, it is not quite Gotham. If I am going to spend a premium, I may as well spend a slightly bigger premium and go for the best. Also, given that I am a health food nut, I don't want to blow my once per month "steak maximum" (for health reasons) on anything but the best.
Normally, I never like to mention another restaurant when reviewing one, but in this case there was no other way to describe the essential shortcoming of Black and Blue, which can only be remedied by closing Gotham. If Gotham closed, it would get another star and if it could replicate Gotham's Chicago Blue Rare (the litmus test for good steak) then it would get that prized fifth star. -
Review from Diana L.
2/27/2012 4 photos
I can't name a better place with a more beautiful decor. The whole experience was amazing right from the time I stepped in the door. Along with the gorgeous decor was the best service. The hostess was highly amiable, and our servers were witty and charming. The Bosas really live up to their name. I couldn't ask for better treatment.
Let's get to the meat and potatoes. I had the prime rib with all the fixings! We also shared the most delectable brioche smothered with butter and blue cheese and crispy calamary. I was really impressed how the menu featured some really classic choices, such as oyster's Rockafeller, banana's Foster, and crepe suzette.
Eating here makes you feel like a real BOSS! Try it. You'll definitely like it (more like love it).Listed in: Foine dines
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Review from Scott H.
Updated - 1/13/2012
Sadly,I've got to knock this down a notch. I'm not a big fan of the Glowbal restaurants, and Black and Blue is easily the best of the bunch in my mind. We stopped in last night for a late dinner and it was the inconsistency that makes me take it down from a 4.
The night starts with the hosts taking everyone's jackets but ours (no biggie, but still..). Our server is great, makes recommendations and we go with them. They're bang on. And the waiter/salad-dessert maker that goes to the tables is fantastic as well. The only issues we had with the service was the slooooow bar service. 15 minutes for a glass of proseco? Really?
The food: our waiter recommended a tuna daikon concoction that was 5 star. Damn it was some fine tuna. Friends get the caesar salad and the guy that made was also 5 star. The wife and I order the chateaubriand and it was grand. Somehow they got it half medium/half medium rare to stave off an argument. Nice work. Another pal got the veal and was mucho impressed as well, BUT the prime rib was CRAP. It should've been the star of the table, but it was as chewy as an old shoe. We were all very surprised. And the dsserts were solid, especially the Bread pudding...wow.
The clientele was all over the map, suits, couples and apparently a group of Russian prostitutes (or so they appeared to be), as well as a group of late 40ish cougars and suitors dancing around the bar to the 80's music. Bizarre for a "high-end" steakhouse and a little tragic for onlookers.
And that kind of sums it up. It's a great space, with really, really good service but they're trying to be everything to everyone and it ends up muddying the experience. This is what Glowbal is selling above the food. It's the meal "experience". Unfortunately I've experienced better. It was soooo good for lunch and could've been amazing for dinner with a bit more control. But what do I know, I just write.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/16/2011
You know what I hate? People that call themselves foodies. Because you eat out all the time, doesn't… Read more »
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Review from Daniel L.
3/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
Black & Blue is the new R&R... Walking into this concert hall setting the giant square bar stands dead centre and most of the guests are dancing in their chairs or heads are bobbing to the very loud tunes 60,70,80 for the most part. My meal was the PEI NY Strip with a side of Foie Gras... the meal over all was a 7.5 / 10 as I had a hard time finding the taste and tenderness to rate it any higher for the price point $145ea, hence 3 stars. The head bobbing servers and bartenders are for sure topnotch in their class. The steak parlour was packed the upper floor had every table full including the private rooms. These guys have hit a home run here with the mix of tunes class and its gastrosteak house.
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Review from J N.
Vancouver, BC
2/11/2012 1 Check-in Here
Remember when Glowbal, Coast, Society and who can forget Sanafir were the hot new places in town? Neither do I, but anyhoo, B and B is the gorgeous new Glowbal group resto. So, if you're hesitant about coming here--like I was--say no more; give it a go! Everyone else is crossing that bridge and driving through that tunnel, and so should you!
The place was entertaining enough with plenty of 40 something-suits and women decked out in their finest Yurman jewelry, biker dudes, and people like us. Music was all awesome from the mid-80's, and again, more than likely designed to suit the aforementioned crowd, including me.
Steak-yummy, but not as good as some other known steakhouses in town. Complete with three sauces, too.
Onion rings- hot and tasty, par for the course
Crab Salad-beautiful presentation, delicious, but too much mayo. Sometimes I wonder if this chain has stocks in Hellmann's or Kraft. Still, pretty tasty.
The star that elevated a 3 to a 4? Ryan, the bartender (I asked) kept us happy with special drinks flowing all night. Finally, I could choose from some lovely high-end BC wines by the glass which I am finding increasingly difficult to find in Vancouver. If you sit at the bar, you won't be disappointed. The pretty Asian bartender was quite good, friendly, and attractive, too.
Bathrooms were so far away that the staff wished you good night as you left the facilities. Pretty strange, but signaled they were trying hard to please. Service was great!
I will def. return for the food, drinks, meat-chandeliers, and of course, entertainment! -
Review from Odette C.
Vancouver, BC
2/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
5th Dineout Vancouver 2012
$38 per person.
Bacon & Egg (breakfast?) Interesting maple syrup flavour reminds me of pancake breakfast. Never had a regular duck egg before (always salted) That was creamy, smooth delicious.
Beef tenderloin with crab bearnaise sauce. Beef done just right. Excellent quality. Bearnaise sauce creamy, high calorie goodness. Excellent dish
We added a macaroni and cheese. Intersting innovative dish. They cooked the mac & cheese, left it overnight then lightly breaded the long cube shaped and fried. On the side there is a warm cheese fondue for dipping.
Dessert
Creme caramel. Standard nothing special. Decent dessert. -
Review from Sara M.
Vancouver, BC
5/8/2012
The atmosphere at Black and Blue is beautiful. I was kind of surprised actually by the layout of the restaurant. When you walk in its sort of similar to Coast, but up stairs in the dining area its very pretty and romantic. I had the rib eye and thought it was pretty good. The caesar salad is a must try. They make it fresh table side and you actually taste the difference. My only complaint is that the other steaks do not come with sides, you have to order them seperately which the waitor tricked us into. I think some sides, at least veggies or something, with the steaks would be nice (not just a single steak on a big plate). Great place for a night out with gfs or a romantic date!
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Review from Annie M.
Vancouver, BC
Another new steak house opened in downtown by Glowbal group. It's trying to compete with high-end steakhouses such as Gotham.
When we got in Black + Blue, we found the interior and decoration was so trendy, classy and modern. The lighting is gorgeous!!
The atmosphere was vibrant and the staff were very helpful and service was great. They had an extensive wine and cocktail menu which I really like. T
Even though I'm not a meat fans, but I'm glad to try this out.
We got seated on upstairs at the booth and could see almost every corner... When we got the dine out menu and regular menu, we almost wanted to try everything....
Dine out menu:
Bacon & Egg - thick cut double smoked bacon and fried duck egg was very good to start with.
Tuna Carpaccio - just ok.
Angus Tenderloin roasted pearl onion - Don't bother to comment!! It was too soft and I just a bit.
Roasted Sablefish - It was great with nice presentation.
Regular Menu:
Louie salad with crab $17 - So fresh and a lot of crab meat on top of the romaine with the perfect dressing.
Onion Rings $7 - I would say "the best onion rings in town"
Lobster Bisque - It's creamy and tasty, just a bit salty....
PEI Rib eye Steak $39 - It's perfectly cooked and delicious!!
Chocolate Soufflé - drying for it.... fresh baked!! Crispy on the top and melt inside. I loved it!! -
Review from TheHungryNomad E.
1/31/2012
Dinner at Black and Blue exceeded our expectations. Not one single empty seat in the house so we were offered to sit at the bar which turned out to be more pleasant anyway. Our bartender was very nice and attentive- he even brought over a sample of every beer until I found one that I liked. He then thoroughly went through the menu with us and taught us about all the different steaks. Who knew there were so many different types of meat?
On this particular evening, we went specifically for the steak and steak is what we had. The sides come separately to order and there were many to choose from. We ordered the stuffed baked potato which was incredibly amazing and really the best stuffed potato I've ever tasted. It was stuffed and gooing with sour cream, bacon and cheese. Oh My. Definitely not on the calorie friendly side but worth every bite. The steak fries were also good and baked and fried to perfection. The steak came with four different sauces to choose from but it was so delicious and tender that I didn't want to take away from the taste by adding any sauce.
The ambiance of the restaurant also makes it a great spot for drinks. The decor...absolutely amazing! Highly recommend for a fun night out on the town.
For photos visit my blog:
http://hungrynomadeats... -
Review from Nancy W.
12/4/2011
Black + Blue, the golden age of steak is a newly opened seventh addition to the Glowbal Group. It is the biggest and boldest additional to the Glowbal Collection. Located on prime downtown Vancouver real estate, this third addition on Alberni Street does not tire its customers. Instead, it brings an entirely new dining experience with this high ceilings, glamour, and sophistication.
At first when you arrive at Black+Blue your senses are fed with beautiful ambiance. The magnificence of the hexagon ornament chandelier and brass polish tingles your iris.
The grandeur of its high ceilings and 3-story architecture invites conversation. Interiors designed by Box Interior Design. A glass-walled elevator leads to the rooftop. Perhaps one day Vancouver will experience roof top dining much like New York. Private rooms, seated booths, lounge area and more...
And how can you not notice the massive meat locker adjacent to the bar lined with bricks of Himalayan Rock salt? Kept in this large glass cooler are beef aged between 28 - 48 days. Customers may reserves you own slab for future reservations ...
Center of the restaurant owns a bar where patrons from ground floor, lounge area, and 3rd floor dining can enjoy some people watching and the opulence of liqueur flowing.
So how do you like your steaks done? Black+Blue? Any way you like it their in-house aged rare cuts of beef will satisfy your every desire. Serving snake river Wagyu where these cattles are massaged, drink beer and hand fed corn to produce the most tender and flavourful beef. These cream de la cream beef carries a hefty sticker price (New York Strip @ $11/oz; Cowboy $130/16oz). Then is the Reserved Angus, super premium Canadian quality, marbled perfection. Or perhaps you'd fancy a PEI Blue Ribbon or Double RR Ranch.
Proprietors Emad Yacoub and Shannon Bosa Yacoub began their restaurant empire ten years ago with the opening of Glowbal Grill and Satay Bar in 2002 in Yaletown. With their in-your-face attitude and see-and-be-seen restaurant mastermind they have transformed Vancouver's restaurant scene. It is no wonder that Emad Yacoub was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2010 Pacific Awards. The Glowbal Group Collection hosts, Coast Restaurant, Sanafir (click), Italian Kitchen, Trattoria Italian Kitchen, Glowbal Grill and Satay, and Society. Investing and embracing social media marketing inspiring customers and other fellow competition. Each with its own flare, own uniqueness, own distinct cinematic genre and this is what draws in its crowd repeatedly. I at least am intrigued with every visit!
It is no doubt that social media plays such a huge role, especially in today's society. For one we have experienced the promptness and the finesse executed by their social media engagement. Details of which I will not divulge but my party nonetheless were quite impressed.
On the table flowed with Gewurztraminer and Shiraz, conversation, and simply great food.
Stuffed Mushrooms $15
Served on a skillet portobello, dungeness crab, with béarnaise. A rather rich appetizer but freshness of wood earthy taste of mushrooms balances well with the sweetness of crab.
Beef Wellington $31Tenderness of beef is wrapped in a puff pastry stuffed with mushrooms, foie gras mousse a float of red wine jus. Comforting and warming with every bite. Red wine jus brightens the beef flavour and puff pastry adds texture.
Again, a concept like spanakopita, puff pastry wrapped with spinach, mushroom duxelle, eggs, lemon beurré blanc and Salmon. Salmon was unfortunately towards the dry side and flavors blurred much like my photo. But overall concept is well executed.
PEI Blue Ribbon Steak | New York Strip $36/12oz
Cattle raised in lush seaside of PEI and Blue ribbon program ensures it is Canadian prime. This top percentile beef was well marbled and tendor. Cooked to order (at medium rare) was delicious.
Served with 4 different steak sauces - butter, au jus, béarnaise, and chilli. By far chilli was the best while au jus topped a close second. Next time I wish I can try the Wagyu (cowboy $130/16oz) or someone would share the Porterhouse ($51/24oz) cut with me. -
Review from James I.
Abbotsford, BC
This is the 2nd Glowbal Group restaurant I ate at today and after the first one I was a tad nervous about eating at this one. Arrived just after 4pm so there were only a couple of tables with customers. My dinner partner and I were shown to a table for two even though we requested a larger table. After the hostess went and checked we were seated at a booth for four but only after promising her we would be gone before 6:15.
I server, Jeffery was top notch all the way. Very pleasant and just attentive enough. He made suggestions on menu items and was great at answering questions. Even answered the question as to what was significant about the "Black & Blue" name. It's how meat is cooked the "Pittsburgh" way. I'm not telling ask Jeffrey.
I ordered Beef Carpaccio as an appetizer. I was surprised how much meat came on the plate. Only thing I would have liked more of the garlic bread with the appetizer as the meat by itself was a bit stronger tasting than I liked. On top of the garlic bread the tastes of the two worked well. $15
I had the Beef Wellington for my entree. NIce puff pastry, loads of meat, & foie gras. Very rich, but tasty. $31
My dinner partner had the Prime Rib 10 oz. It arrived with vegetables, mashed potatoes and Yorkshire Pudding. The meat was cooked perfectly to order. Prime Rib wasn't all that flavourful when I tasted it. I found it somewhat bland. No seasoning that I could taste.
For dessert I had the Crepe Suzanne. It is prepared at the table (the crepes are pre- made). Jeffery put on a good show. The dessert was light, sweet and worth having again. $12
Other reviewers have mentioned the decor so I won't. Loads of staff. Suggestion for the managers. If it's early and not busy seat a couple at a larger table without making them feel like it's an imposition.
I would definitely eat here again. -
Review from Christine K.
Vancouver, BC
11/8/2011
I had a business lunch here today. I am not a fan of Glowbal but I'm not a hater either. I've had some relatively good meals at a couple of their places...
The decor is very nice and swank and Steakhouse like. Waitress said over three million was spent on the remodel. The person who invited us to lunch worked at the first Glowbal restaurant and told us this one was based on looking like a Chicago Steakhouse. OK, I'll take his word for it. The decor here is definitely 5 stars, beautiful room..
The manager came by with some recommendations and said to order the Beef Wellington - medium or medium rare and the Beef Bourguignon. He only looked at the three men while saying this. Then he looked at me and said, "If you want a salad, I recommend the Louie - that has Dungeness crab....". I found it wrong, to be honest, to assume I was going to eat a salad. Did he say that because he thought I "should" or because I was a woman and that's what women order? Either way, I found him pretentious. One of the men interrupted him and told him I was going to have steak when I started laughing at him...
Service was really lacking and awkward. Everything from:
- not being able to offer a decaf coffee and not knowing it...she got all flustered and made us feel awkward. After she kept stumbling over her words saying she had never had an order for a decaf, we told her they could maybe do a decaf Americano and perhaps she could check.... After a long time away, she finally came back and said they could do a decaf espresso...(couldn't that have been made into an Americano?)
- placing the orders down incorrectly. If the server didn't announce the type of steak, my neighbour and I would have eaten each others! (He ordered the Angus filet and I the PEI filet). When she dropped the first one, she said to him, "Here is your sirloin" We both looked at each other puzzled with question marks in our mind. When she dropped the one to me, she said, "And here is the Angus". We got her to swap. I assumed she meant to say "tenderloin" and not sirloin. The Wellington was served WELL done even though it was ordered medium rare. The other said his Bourguignon was very good and hot. One out of four was happy. I will say my steak was good, nothing at all to complain about.
- bringing us other peoples orders after our check had arrived. As we were getting ready to leave, three hamburgers were dropped to our table though there were four of us. We had to tell her they weren't ours and then she looked helplessly around and called over to someone, "which table?" Her face got all pouty and she looked like she was going to throw a tantrum and stamp her feet.
- delivering partial cold entrees and cold, bad coffee (piped mashed potatoes were cold and if there was truffles, I could not even find a hint of truffle oil).
- forgetting parts of the order (sides) Had to ask waitress for forgotten Bearnaise sauce. The sauce was very good though!
- over acting...i.e... waitress asking, "Do you like your food?". Us answering, "Yes, it's good" and her responding, "OH, I"M GLAD YOU'RE LOVING IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!" - fake smile, fake smile..."I KNEW YOU WOULD, ISN'T IT GREAT??????????" - fake smile, fake smile.. (gag)
That about sums it up though my thoughts got a lot longer as I was writing this out! I was not impressed. That being said, I will say that not one steakhouse in Vancouver has impressed me yet and that includes Gotham and Hy's...I hope that will change one day. -
Review from Sanaz J.
Vancouver, BC
2/23/2012
First of all I have to admit that I'm a meatatarian so if you are offended by seeing blood on your steak then save your money and eat your well done steak at home! I have been to this Chicago style steakhouse three times in the past couple of months and have never been disappointed.
On my first visit, on a family member's birthday, we were greeted very warmly escorted to the lounge for a complimentary drink as they were running late in prepping our table. The decor is amazing and instantly transforms you back into the glory days of Mad Men, where the champagne was flowing while men in tailored suits are discussing business over a meal! The meat fridge is a sight for sore eyes, especially self proclaimed meatatarians:) Anyways let's get to the real goods:
We ordered a few appies to get the celebration started among which beef carpaccio stood out. Traditionally I've been one to enjoy more lean meats as it's raw and leaves a lasting impression on your tongue but didn't mind Black and Blue's more greaser version. For the main course, I tried the chateaubriand for two which I was not so happy to share, call me selfish, as the meat melted in my mouth. For the side we tried the cream corn and mashed potatoes which as they are called sides, so not as impressive as the meat.
On my second visit, I stumbled into this place after a rather bland buffet meal at Hyatt; what was I expecting from a hotel meal:( My tummy was full so I decided to try out a liquid option so tried to find a place at the fully packed bar. After walking around the table unable to find a chair or get any of the bartender's attention I was ready to give up and call it an early night. When I walked over to get my coat, the friendly greeter asked why I was leaving. I explained that I'd had a rather dull night and needed a drink but couldn't get one. She immediately grabbed my hand, dragged me to the bar called the bartender and ordered him to fix me the best cocktail they have on the house. Now that's what I call service, in a city where you are supposed to tip 15% no matter what the service quality is. I knew that my night was off to a good start...after that the young bartender kept making me delicious drink, one that was amazing which he called the bubble gum. Needless to say I knew I'd found my local watering hole in Black and Blue with all the glitter and none of the snobby Vancouver attitude!
My third and last recent visit was to the lounge of Black and Blue was memorable because of all the delicious cocktails. Their cocktail list is extensive, but common ones like Mojito's and Cosmos are done to perfection. -
Review from Klaus J.
Vancouver, BC
4/2/2012
Very noisy place on Saturday afternoon. Music was way too loud and wrong genre for this type of place. Fancy deco.
Steak was amazing, but unfortunately they forgot to my order of side dish. They fixed the mistake rather fast.
I will still return because of the great steaks! -
Review from Andrew L.
Port Moody, BC
11/29/2011
This place is all about meat, from the name, to the gigantic pieces of meat hanging, to the great food, though I gather the seafood was fantastic too!
They are growing into their space, their menu and their service - I think it has been open for maybe a few weeks.
First, its beautful - peek in and see for yourself!
Second, its comfortable - great clamshell booths upstairs handle 3 or 4 easily in comfort where you can all chat and see each other.
Third, they have great food - the Beef Wellington, the Baked Alaska, my companions raved over the seafood combo in broth - lunch is around $20 - and well worth it.
What costs more are the addons - not that the restaurant adds on, but that YOU add on, because you are feeling prosperous, relaxed, comfortable, well taken care of, and of COURSE you should have another glass of wine, and of COURSE a desert item woukld be perfect to finish it all off, off COURSE you`d have the sparkling water, and of course you`d love every single thing!
A great Chicago style steakhouse, with a nice mix of classic and modern touches.
I am looking forward to coming back for a more expensive and even more relaxed and expansive dinner. Maybe even try one of those giant pieces of meat hanging on the back wall! LOL -
Review from Megan D.
Vancouver, BC
1/25/2012
I went here recently for lunch with a co-worker and found the service to be really great. Unfortunately the food we ordered (we shared a few appies and mains) was all either extremely greasy or under seasoned.
It seemed like they just couldn't get it right! They have a good wine list and the menu sounds great, but we were both left really unimpressed. -
Review from Karen G.
3/20/2012
It was just in the cards for us...we didn't have a reservation on a Friday night at 7pm. We walked in just as they had a cancelation and were seated that second (that'll never happen again). The service was outstanding and they didn't even give us dirty looks because we had our 3 children with us.
Very hip and trendy atmosphere, but the food was the highlight. From the carpaccio and foie gras to the filet and baked potato, they were all delicious. Then came the bananas foster prepared tableside with just a bit of butter (and by a bit I mean less than 2lbs) amazing! Our server, Jade let our girls help out which made their night.
Overall an amazing experience. But the best part for us was that we got to have an amazing experience and fantastic food, and they made our children feel welcome while they enjoyed all same food we did! Outstanding! -
Review from Matthew C.
North Vancouver, BC
3/1/2012
Super-deluxe steaks, gorgeous atmosphere and grounded, calm service. These elements combined for a delightful birthday dinner out. I will return to dine when I want a unique steak and tempting sides.
Our host offered to take our coats on arrival and seated us at our reserved table promptly. Our table arrived at various stages of the evening and our service managed that impeccably.
One of my dining companions brought me flowers ("men don't get flowers often enough" - I agree) and when I asked one of the servers if these could be stored somewhere, he offered the beer fridge. Perfect!
I had the Tuna Screamer (magic!), PEI Blue Ribbon(speechless) with Brussels Sprouts and broccoli. Sides were cooked to perfection, and the broccoli was not mush!! Nice job. The house red wine was an easy drinker and the Tinhorn Riesling with the steak was tasty. I should have opted for a big red to go with the steak though. -
Review from Pamela L.
Updated - 3/9/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Delish as always. The best steaks and terrific service
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/25/2012
Okay, this is a meat market - both for the terrific steaks and the eye candy. This is the place to… Read more »
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Review from Irena L.
2/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
It was my aunt's and my uncle's birthdays, and I needed a perfect dinner spot. I was a bit hesitant to come here because of all the negative reviews, but boy am I glad I brought them here!
Diane, our server, was so attentive and genuine. She was very knowledgeable and made great recommendations!
Interior = polished, glitzy, ritzy, posh...awesome!
Food was to die for! We had Crab Cake Fondue to start. Beef Wellington, Reserve Angus Rib Eye and Tenderloin, Loaded Baked Potato, Steak Fries and Broccoli to follow. It was the single most perfect piece of meat I've ever head! Done medium rare, done to perfection! All the side dishes come in little pots to share which is great! Steaks come with 4 sauces (hollandaise, bernaise and 2 more). Every single item we tried was absolutely delicious! I am at a loss for words to describe it! Even Steak Fries were sooooo tasty. It's just potato, but oh laaawwwwwd was it good!
At the end Diane brought out two desserts for them with candles. It was definitely a nice touch!
Thank you Black & Blue for making their birthdays that much more special!Listed in: Creme de la creme
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Review from Melissa K.
Vancouver, BC
11/9/2011
Wow, I'm quite shocked that the reviews of this restaurant have been negative so far. So shocked that I feel I should be writing a review. I think the food from Black & Blue is probably around 3.5, but the service tops it off to a 4. I never go to any Glowbal restaurants to have amazing food, but for a great experience with pretty good food. All the Glowal restaurants have nice rooms that are good for groups, a comfortable and upscale place to have food and drinks without breaking the bank. Their servers are always attentive, and though sometimes seem inexperienced, are still pleasant.
The first time I came here last week with a friend, we both had a good time. I had the steak oscar which is crab meat on steak with hollandaise baked over it. I've never had something like that before and thought it was a nice way to eat a slab of meat. I had my steak rare and it was tender and juicy. I always get rare because it always comes medium rare; and it was medium rare. One of my friends did think hers was salty though, but didn't say it was bad. My other friend had crab fondue and calimari. I agree the bread that came with the crab fondue was unappealing; they can do a better job with that. But my friend enjoyed the crab. The calimari was perfectly fried.
At the recommendation of a few people, we tried the butter cake, and it was epic. VERY heavy I should add, like a dense pound cake. But it was delicious. So good that we finished the whole thing and we weren't even hungry when we started.
I came back here with some friends for happy hour and again, everyone had a good time and was satisfied with their snacks. The server overcharged us for a few cocktails but was apologetic and had the bill revised immediately without putting up a fight. She came back often to check if we were ok for drinks. Overall, both experiences were quite good.
I'd definitely recommend this restaurant for happy hour or late night drinks; they have a good lounge. Their food is pretty good, but not amazing. For an amazing steak, go to Gotham's...or Alberta. But you won't get the same ambiance. -
Review from Brittany W.
North Vancouver, BC
11/13/2011
Elegant, grand and beautifully laid out, Black & Blue speaks class, industry and is tailored for high society or perhaps the upper bourgeois - a fitting addition to the mix on Alberni. It fuses steakhouse with an upscale resto-lounge vibe. I give it to Glowbal for creating yet another remarkably cosmopolitan dining space. Of course, a little pretentiousness rolls around with this scene too, but with that comes highly attentive service and well-trained knowledgeable staff.
We drank at the bar, people watched and took in the experience on Friday night. We ordered our usual and tried some drinks from their menu. I tried the Mandarin Old Fashion - strongest drink I've ever been served anywhere! ... but delicious after it sat on the rocks for a bit. The female bartender was excellent - friendly and well-versed.
4.5 out of 5. I have to say, overall I was impressed by my experience, but next time, I'll have to try their steak. For late night dining/lounges/bars, experience is usually the determining factor for whether I return. Will be back!Listed in: Ergonomically Designed to…
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Review from Rachel W.
Burnaby, BC
2/1/2012
Black & Blue from the Letdown...
Dine Out Vancouver 2012 - had REALLY been looking forward to it after reading reviews - what a let down.
"Bacon 'n' Eggs" came with alot of super sweet maple syrup (not spicy) and the bacon was really all fat. Tuna Carpaccio was nice. Angus Tenderloin was very good, Roasted Sablefish was pitifully small and very, very salty.
Classic Crème Caramel was not a Brulee but a Flan and it was gummy & awful.
Service was very nice an attentive, restaurant was lovely to look at - but after this presentation and seeing the regular prices...I don't see the point of going back. Several friends have attended on different nights (and they are regulars) they have been just as letdown. Had to go to the drive-thru 1/2 hr later to get more food to fill up.
After reading & hearing so many great things about Black&Blue I was hoping to find our "New Restaurant" for the year - it was such an utter letdown and I was so very disappointed - especially having come in our Anniversary night with friends. -
Review from Brad W.
Vancouver, BC
11/10/2011
Beautiful room, glad i wore a collared shirt ; )
Food was very good. A couple bumps in service but nothing to rate it as low as the first three posted reviews (I am very suspicious of their reviews).
Went for a dinner with a group of 6, nobody was disappointed in any way! We all left the restaurant with lighter wallets, but were over stuffed with food. So the quality and value was definitely there.
I didn't try the $30+ SPECIAL by the glass wines. But made me curious. I think its nice to have options in Vancouver to try some great wines by the glass, as most of my friend rarely buy a $100+ bottle of wine at a restaurant. So this option was a good idea for this place.
I will highly recommend this if you like "showy" restaurants and want an experience unlike any in Vancouver. Cheers to bringing a little bit of Chicago or Manhattan to Vancouver. -
Review from Jen K.
Vancouver, BC
2/22/2012
I have been to Black and Blue twice; firstly on Valentines Day and secondly for my birthday a week later. The service we had from the bartender and table side chef the first time made me want to come back a second.
First time around we had the suggested two person steak (some french name that I have forgotten) and it was awesome and cooked to order. We selected an array of drinks, all which came out promptly and delicious from Bartender Abe. We decided to get one of the 'table side' desserts and went with the Crepe Suzette. It was amazing! Tableside Chef Brad informed us that his Bananas Foster and Caesar Salad were even better, so we should try those.
We came a week later and Brad had remembered us as soon as we walked in, he said he would find our table and ensure he would make our Caesar salad. It was actually the best Caesar salad I have ever tasted. I ordered the PEI Blue Ribbon New York Strip this time around, and it was awesome! Bartender Abe was also there, came over and said hi and even remembered our names!
Tableside Chef Brad surprised us with a complimentary birthday Bananas Foster before we were about to leave; just so kind.
