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Eight 1/2 Restaurant Lounge
Categories: Restaurants Canadian (New) Restaurants Tapas/Small Plates Restaurants Pizza Canadian (New), Tapas/Small Plates, Pizza [Edit]
151 E 8th AveVancouver, BC V5T 1R8
Neighbourhood: Mount Pleasant
(604) 568-2703
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 12 pm - 12 am
Fri 12 pm - 1 am
Sat 11 am - 1 am
Sun 11 am - 11 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
60 reviews for Eight 1/2 Restaurant Lounge
Review Highlights
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"Baked brie - I cannot say enough about this snackie." In 14 reviews -
"The mac n cheese was rich and tasty tho." In 6 reviews -
"and The banana bread pudding was yummy." In 4 reviews
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60 reviews in English
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Review from Chantal R.
Maple Ridge, BC
5/10/2012
Cute little place in downtown Vancouver that isn't too expensive.
I've been here twice, first time I ordered the mussels, which were delicious, fresh and plump. The second time I went there for lunch and ordered the prosciutto & camembert sandwich with the Hollywood salad, it's was very tasty and I loved the salad.
I also like how they serve you water with cucumber in it, a little detail that makes me very happy...I actually drink the water at this place, normally I would avoid it.
All & all, a good place to visit.
Why isn't it 5 stars?: -The immortal fruit-fly I encountered both times, I named him Frank. -
Review from Zee K.
Vancouver, BC
4/24/2012
Like the decor, very good pizza, had the tuna salad and felt it was a bit 'meh' for the price vs ingredients. The tuna and dressing were not amazing.
That said, they do also have a drink called the Lindsay Lohan, which is a redheaded slut with coke, so they get bonus points for that. -
Review from Trudi C.
Was wanting to try a new brekkie hangout this Sunday morning, and Nice Cafe opposite was its usual queue out the door. Am glad we got here early (opening time!), as the place filled up quick, with many of the tables already reserved. There was that slight fear in the back of my head that we would be waiting ages for food to come with so many people, but thankfully that wasn't so.
I ordered the standard 8 1/2 breakfast, with 2 eggs cooked to your style, bacon (or choice of sausage), potatoes, toast and fruit. At first I was a little wary it wouldn't be enough (am a pig), but it suited me juuuuust right :) There were constant water and coffee refills going on, which kept me a very happy person!
I def would like to come back here in the evening as the drinks are all my faves! Fruli, Innis and Gunn, plus some great-sounding vodka mixes! Will be back. -
Review from Annie M.
Vancouver, BC
Eight 1/2 is located in a hundred-year old building in a relatively shabby neighborhood. Interestingly the place looks rather quaint and elegant from the outside, but the interior is modern.
We went there for Sunday brunch, the service was poor. There was only 1 waitress and 1 bus girl working.
The foods were average, we had a benny and an omelette for brunch. -
Review from Stephanie C.
Vancouver, BC
3/23/2012
A fantastic little gem just off Main and Broadway. The atmosphere is really welcoming and just chill. It's somewhere you could spend hours having drinks, snacking and chatting with friends. We did not have issues with service at all as some people have pointed out, the server/bartender were super attentive.
My favourite thing here is the Mac and Cheese... I was blown away at how delicious this was (probably because it's loaded with 4 cheeses!!). Creamy cheese sauce, cheesy-crisp crust, and bubbling hot. A little ramekin of heaven right there. We also had the BBQ Chicken pizza, which was quite tasty and not dry (usually my issue w/chicken pizzas); the Flatiron Steak Sandwich was alright, the meat was cooked well, however I was not a fan of the bun and it lacked seasoning. Finished the night with the chocolate banana bread pudding. Stuffed as we were, you can't resist a bread pudding! And I am glad we didn't. It was delicious. There was a crust on the outside, but it was warm and soft on the inside, without that overpowering banana taste. The only qualm I had was that the vanilla ice cream they used was bland, and if they used a higher quality ice cream it'd be perfect.
I will definitely be returning here. -
Review from Lukas O.
Richmond, BC
12/18/2011
I've been here 3 times and each experience has been about the same. The service is always lacking - I'm not sure why they are understaffed. Two out of the three were fine but the latest experience was really off - check Amanda L's experience for more details.
I've always gotten the chicken bbq pizza; I forget the actual name... In any case it's great. I'm so happy that my lady is a vegetarian so I can put the chorizo that she can't have on my pizza. Their specialty drink pitchers are quite nice albeit pricy.
The atmosphere is quite unique. They have a bar, group areas, and a few somewhat intimate seating arrangements. The layout is a hardcore tight rectangle so it can get loud.
I hope there will be another 'groupon' round for this place because I'll go back. -
Review from Sarah D.
10/29/2011
I *love* Eight 1/2 restaurant, and here's a few reasons why:
1. It's in a great location on East 8th Ave, just a hop, skip and a jump from Main St.
2. It's in a the basement of a beautiful old home, complete with wooden beams and an intimate setting.
3. The baked brie. My god, you've just gotta try it. It's absolutely sinful.
4. Their four cheese mac n cheese is one of the best I've ever tried. Bocconcini with macaroni? Delicious!
5. Pitchers of mojitos. This is quite possibly _the_ best thing if you're going out for drinks with the girls. We complimented the waitress on the mojitos, and apparently they get compliments on it all the time. It's THAT good.
6. The red sangria is to die for.
So, basically what I'm saying is that it's a beautiful place with cheese and booze. Isn't that what everyone looks for in a restaurant? I was first brought here by a couple of friends who live on Mount Pleasant, and I loved it so much that I came back for my birthday dinner less than a week later.
Overall, I just feel a lot better knowing that places like Eight 1/2 exist in Vancouver. Damn, we're a cool city after all.Listed in: The Main Attraction
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Review from Kristen M.
Vancouver, BC
I love it here.
Just discovered this little gem a few weeks back, and we've been back for 4 meals.
The tuna salad is amazing, as are the steak bites.
The staff has always been super friendly, even at the busiest of times. Definitely a new favourite. -
Review from Amanda L.
Updated - 11/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been here several times and this was my favorite restaraunt, maybe it will be again but not today.
My most recent experience was a bit of a shit show and had it not involved a pitcher of alcohol I probably would have slapped a bitch!
From a packed restaraunt with what seemed like 2 bartenders acting as the entire wait staff our "waitress" was confused about what could be included with our voucher we had. No drink menu was given took a combined half an hour to get our hands on the menu and get our drinks in our faces. I convinced my guy to try the brie and then we both ordered pizzas. 10 minutes later they tell us they don't have the one I ordered and will not custom make a vegetarian pizza in lieu of their failure because the kitchen staff were busy (yeah, so, and I was hungry for pizza!) Begrudgingly ordered perogies without making a fuss. 20 minutes later our meals arrive, no appetizer. We are then lied to by the waitress and told the kitchen forgot to make it rather then just being honest and saying she was too lazy to write our order down and she forgot.
Our appetizer showed up a complete half hour after we finished eating our meal and wasn't even properly cooked!
Complete FAIL! And to top it off we were not given a proper apology or offered any sort of compensation, it was just like this was the standard of service and it was too bad for us.
What the capital F?
I'll be back, cause I don't give up easy but until then enjoy your 2 start review in exchange for the 2 star service I received!Listed in: All Stars!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/11/2011
Love this place! Like many others I cannot pass through the doors of Eight 1/2 without stuffing my… Read more »
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Review from Ernesto G.
Updated - 10/29/2011 3 photos
I will miss Eight 1/2 when I move away.
Always consistently good food and great service. Something must be said about consistency. Ordered the Crosby Omelette and always, it was delicious today.
Caught up with an old friend for brunch and enjoyed a few cups of coffee and an omelette.
Service is excellent. I sat here for 1.5 hours with my friend and its totally okay...no one rushing you to leave or pay the bill. Thank you for the 1st rate service and the tasty food and drink.Listed in: I LOVE BRUNCH
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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4/11/2011
Looking for a place that still serves Sunday Brunch past 2pm...you have an extra hour at Eight 1/2.
… Read more »
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Review from Lex B.
Updated - 12/9/2010
I forgive you, 8 1/2! I want you in my life again without the suspicion and accusations. Lets be friends.
Admittedly, our relationship started out rocky. You weren't very nice to me, and even denied me the joy of a well made benedict on a cold hungover morning. But things have turned around. My friends said to give you a chance and I am glad I listened.
The baked brie will punch you in the face with awesomness. Gooey, encased in crusty fillo pastry and doused in honey and hot chilis, do not go on living without trying it if you love cheese.
The mac and cheese is the best I've had, and shockingly filling. My best nights are when I share a bowl of this and the brie with a friend, along with a refreshing pitcher of the meeshmellow (not too sweet, just boozy enough!) and then we both slip happily into a cheese and liquor bliss state. (I'm looking at you, Nicole F.)
I've had a couple of benedicts for brunch - the khatsalano (feta, fresh local tomatos and spinach) and the wild salmon (dill cream cheese, salmon, capers) and they both are amazing. Perfect hollandaise, eggs poached beautifully, and the rosemary potatoes? Usually the hasbrowns are an aside, but here they are just as good as the benedict! If they don't come with your brunch, order them as a side!
8 1/2 also introduced me to Verdejo - my new favorite white wine. I am in love with the wine and cocktail list.
The service has since been wonderful. Casual for sure (which I like, it is very Main Street of them) and friendly.Listed in: Brunch with all my hungover…
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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8/23/2010
Update:
I went for brunch on Sunday after being told the brunch was definitely worth trying. However… Read more »
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Review from Missy L.
Burnaby, BC
8/9/2011
Went here with a friend and wagjag coupon. Was thoroughly impressed! Our tall, blonde waitress was awesome. The decor is cool and the food was delicious.
The baked brie was phenomenal (the sweet chili sauce really complimented the brie and strawberries).
We also had a spicy pizza, forget the name of it. Again, terrific.
Would go back here in a heartbeat! -
Review from Peter H.
Vancouver, BC
1/14/2011
This review only pertains to brunch, as it is the most important meal of the... Well I guess week.
Dear reader,
I do not know you well, and I do not know if i should be sharing such a personal information with you... But I love brunch. And I may love brunch at Eight 1/2 more than any person on this planet. I know , I know, how could I say such a thing? But you have to understand, either I don't like people much, or their brunch is really that good.
I have had an assortment of benedicts here, and every aspect is simply wonderful. It is one of the few places that I do not have to request the hollandaise on the side, as they understand how to make it, and that when plating less can be more. Their rotating weekly hash and egg special sometimes includes chicken which is fantastic. In fact it's extra fantastic, as I do not eat the full rainbow of tasty meats, so chicken hash is a rare treat. Oh I didn't tell you about the potatoes did I? Perfectly oven roasted with rosemary. Why does the rest of the brunch world not do this too?
I hope you explore brunch at Eight 1/2 and enjoy it as much as I do. If you don't, I will avoid eye contact with you on the street and talk about you when you are not looking. -
Review from Jess L.
10/27/2011
Came here on a lazy Sunday for a late lunch. To be honest, I don't remember much about the food. The only thing I remember about this place is the cheesecake. I think the cheesecake selection changes daily but the one that we tried had a layer of hard chocolate on the top and a bottom layer of chocolate cookie crumbs with coconut (I'm a big fan of coconut so of course I think this is brilliant!), and of course cheesecake filling in the middle. I'd go back just to try their cheesecake again :)
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Review from Mercedes G.
Vancouver, BC
11/12/2010
Let me start by saying, always trust your instincts - especially when it comes to service.
My man and I trekked half way round the city to have a rainy day brunch here as I'd heard that the food was local, organic and affordable. When we arrived, it took a good 5 minutes for anyone to greet us. Bad sign, always has been and now, always will be (trust your instincts).
We decided to wait at the bar as there were no available tables. A relaxed to the point of comatose, "who gives a shiz" server told us a table would be ready "y'know eventually, no worries man, no problem, we'll get you a table."...eventually. We drank our lovely cocktails and waited. And waited. We waited until 3 tables cleared out and another couple came in and were seated at a table that was clearly meant for us. Finally, after nearly 40 minutes and no one taking our order, we were told to go over and seat ourselves and bring our drinks over from the bar. AHEM!
At this point, we are nearly tipsy from booze on an empty tummy and agitated. Where in the sam hell is our food?! An hour after we arrive, our food does too and honestly? Pretty lame dudes. Talk about uninspired, I ordered the 8 1/2 breakfast with alder smoked bacon (very tasty bacon but not crispy enough), toast (cold and dry) and scrambled eggs (cold). The portion was small and the plating felt dated. Yawn worthy at best.
No one came by during our meal to see how we were doing or inquire as to whether we had enough cutlery (we didn't) or condiments (nope!).
Thank jebus for that delicious bubbly cassis cocktail lulled me into a false sense of giddiness or the wrath of an under-serviced and underfed woman would have brought this place to its knees.
Sorry 8 1/2, I won't be back anytime soon. It is more than obvious that you are lacking motivation and inspiration as well as a staff who gives a rats arse. -
Review from Victoria R.
Vancouver, BC
4/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love the principle of this place, and wanted to try it because Im a fan of any place that is into sustainability and values farm-to-plate.
We had a bunch of different tapas and some wine which was on special. Cute little restaurant, intimate setting, great service. I was intriguing by their 'flight of whiskies' and will prob head back again for that. I liked the food, the portion sizes were good, the beef was medium rare and juicy, so I call it a win :).Listed in: Eco Finds in Vancouver
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Review from Fonny C.
Vancouver, BC
1/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
First time I went to 8 1/2 was last year and we went on a night when they were hosting a birthday party, so it was not the best impression. So, I went again.
It was a Wednesday night, and already there were a few patrons, good sign. I noticed that the menu has changed since they've opened. The awful ceviche is gone, thank god.
I had the Westcoast Spaghettini which is pesto based. It was light and tasty, good proportion of shrimp, red onion, sundried tomatoes and spinach to pasta and sauce. Perfectly seasoned. My dinner mate had the Arctic Char and gave praise.
Service was good, follow up was appropriately spaced and she was very pleasant to deal with.
2 mains plus a local pitcher came to $60.00 with the entertainment coupon. A tad steep, I thought.
All in all, nothing fancy, but cool joint to hang out off Main Street. -
Review from Nicole F.
Updated - 10/10/2010 7 Check-ins Here
Okay okay. I've been here about 5,000 times since my last review because I have fallen in love SO HARD with this place.
They have officially earned my 5th star. Apparently I just had awful luck with the service the first time I was here.
I still get the baked brie every single time. I have even turned other people on to the baked brie. You really cannot go here and just NOT order it. Unless you're lactose intolerant, but even then, I'd just take one of those Lactaid pills. (Go on Thursdays, the brie is on special for $7.50)
You should also order a pitcher of Long Island Iced Tea. It isn't too sugary like some places and they use egg white to give it some extra body. A nice touch indeed!
Since my first visit, my order hasn't changed TOO much, but I have now tried the pizza, strawberry cheesecake, and the banana bread pudding!
The pizza is soooooo cheesy!! I believe my friend and I shared the Margarita pizza which I don't think is on the menu anymore, but still very good. We'll have to try the Marketplace pizza next. I've also heard many many good things about the Pesto Shrimp pizza.
The strawberry cheesecake was amazing, I don't even think I can properly express how good it was. I had a bite of a friend's order and immediately regretted eating so much earlier because I couldn't order one myself. The bottom layer was a chocolate crust!! CHOCOLATE. Oh my goodness. The cheesecake itself was light and fluffy and sweet. Not too firm. I like it this way.
The banana bread pudding was kind of meh for me. I probably wouldn't order it again. I liked it, but I found that I was forcing myself to finish it rather than wishing I had more. Everyone else who tried it seemed to really enjoy it though.Listed in: Favourites, Comfort Food, BRUNCH, Mac and Cheese-aholics!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/15/2010
The food here is absolutely amazing. The service however, not so much.
A friend and I headed over to… Read more »
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Review from Alicyn C.
12/5/2010 1 Check-in Here
Tonight was the night to sooth my quest for another Mac N' Cheese fix. So after reading the reviews for Eight 1/2 it was decided this was a must place to check out. So glad I got my fix tonight. The mac n' cheese was pretty tasty. However, what got me drooling was the ever so good baked brie. It was perfect and ever so delicious.
Ok, besides for food we had great service and loved the atmosphere of this nice little restaurant. We'll be back again to have the baked brie and perhaps try more items on the menu.Listed in: Mac n' Cheese Quest
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Review from honky t.
Vancouver, BC
1/12/2011
25% of menu INCLUDING Sat special NOT AVAILABLE and this is at 9pm.
We came for the bouilabaise...and they don't have it! We came for the creme brulee...and they don't have it. Ridiculous! -
Review from Vincci L.
On a Sunday morning brunch serving, there was only one person working. She was literally running around to make sure everyone got what they needed. I felt bad for her, since the place was getting packed by 12.
Like last time, food took a while to arrive. My Popeye Omelet consisted of shrimp, sundried tomatoes,and fresh spinach. It was good, but everything was just lukewarm.
Water and coffee refills needed to be requested many times. For a place this small, I'm really expecting better service.Listed in: Main Street Eats
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/21/2011
Finally got to try this place out for brunch on Sunday. We arrived at around 11:30am, and took the… Read more »
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Review from Edward L.
Came here on a whim for some drinks and late-night munchies.
This is not a bad place to go at all. Very trendy, and tucked away on a small street. Never would've known it existed if it weren't for my friend who invited me out.
Parking is not the best in this area, but chances are you'll be here past 2200 anyways when the meters turn free.
The setup is vintage in the trendy sense, as it looks like an old converted warehouse (and probably was at some point to be honest). This place was filled just to capacity, with no empty tables but also no lineup outside.
Beers here aren't bad, at $4.50 to $5.50 for a pint. Looks like they have a deal with some of the local brewers here. Bottles can also be had for $5-6. The food is priced similar to others of the same class, which means you can't spend less than $10 in general.
I had a chance to sample the thin-crust pizzas. The crust is not super-thin, which means you won't leave hungry. The smoked salmon pizza was a bit bland, but they were very generous with the slices. The BBQ chicken pizza was tangy and had many big chunks.
The biggest issue I had was that the seating arrangement was a bit too "dense". The 2 adjacent tables kept banging into me and my buddy sitting across from me. In other words, there isn't enough spacing between the tables.
I wouldn't come here everyday, but this is definitely a half-decent place to bring a date. -
Review from Evilyn T.
How about five and a half stars? We came here for a late and lazy brunch on Sunday, and ended up taking over half of the restaurant, only because this place is pretty small, not because I have a million friends. Our server was accomodating and sassy, two traits that I love when I'm hungover, or any time for that matter.
I ordered a hot chocolate, since it's December, and during that month calories don't count on weekends, so you can pile high the whipping cream on a sugary beverage. The BF got an LA breakfast drink, it had OJ, apple cider and some amount of boozey joy in it that I can't remember. We both had the Khatsalano breakie, which included rosemary potatos, and bennies with spinach, tomato, goat cheese and hollandaise sauce. O.M.G everything was soooooo good! Usually I am not a fan of breakfast hash, but these rosemary potatos were awesome!
Even though I was loving my own breakfast I couldn't help but eyeball everyone else's plates because the presentation at 8 1/2 is almost as good as the taste. I think I have found a new breakfast haven. Half passed Sunday = eight and a half.Listed in: Best of the best, Best Pubs/Clubs
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/3/2010
I'd give it four and a half, if I could since we're counting halves. Eight 1/2 is a quirky little… Read more »
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Review from Christine R.
New Westminster, BC
8/26/2010
This isn't a good place to go if you're monstrously hungry and just want a quick bite to eat ... but it is relaxing. In the space formerly (and temporarily) occupied by Soma, it's an unpretentious little lounge underneath a restored 100-year-old heritage house, which if I heard the waiter right, used to be a brothel?
Anyway, it's a relaxing space in which to wait ... and wait ... for your food. I'm glad I ordered a tall, yet reasonably priced pint of beer - $4.50 for Red Devil. Cocktails are under $8 and there's a nice selection of wines by the glass, too. Natural light comes in through the western windows, and along one side of the restaurant, there's a cool panoramic photo of Main and Broadway that blends images of the past and present.
Ah yes, the food. Yay! Mr. Waiter, don't tease us by pretending to walk past us with four-cheese mac and BBQ chicken pizza and mini perogies. It was worth the wait and all so good. A flurry of trades soon go round the table - a slice of rich BBQ chicken pizza with sweet onions and saucy sauce for a tasty little perogy, a taste of sharp cheesy mac for a forkful of "Hollywood" salad.
By the time we leave, it's dark outside and the candles are flickering. A very good restaurant for a snack with a few good friends, that.Listed in: Pleasantville, Date Night
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Review from Heather M.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 11/7/2010
WOW! their brunch is tasty!
My husband and I went for brunch today. I got the wild smoked salmon bennedict and my husband ate the cat in the hat bennedict. He had originally ordered the popeye bennedict, however they were out of shrimp, so to appologise they made his brunch complementary! I thought it was a bit too generous, but of course we took the discount.
The dill creamcheese mixed with the egg yolk was devine. It's hard to find a place that poaches an egg perfectly. It was, as Gordon Ramsay would say in an english accent "cooked absolutely peeeerfect!".
I also take pride in my own poached eggs (It's a british thing that I picked up from my Mum), so I tend to overappreciate it when they are done perfectly.
Brunch on sat and sunday from 11-3? yes please! Dennys brunch hours, but with all the taste and style of a finer dining restaurant.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/15/2010
A bunch of friends and I went to Eight and a Half last night for a birthday celebration night and… Read more »
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Review from Laure-Elaine C.
Vancouver, BC
2/17/2012 1 photo
marketplace pizza : )
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Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
I couldn't resist (2x in one week!)
Hungry for brunch, I stopped in this morning and was pleasantly surprised (and pretty sad) that it was dead - like we were the only people on the 3 table patio. All the while people crowded across the street at Nice Cafe. "Come over!" I wanted to shout - "The benny's are only $7.50-8.50 and the handmade sausage is made with R&B Red Devlil Ale (duh! beer for breakfast!)."
The eggs were perfectly poached - and definitely had the look of free range (bright yellowy/orange yolks), the english muffin tasted like it came right out of the oven and the rosemary potatoes were golden. The only picky thing I would suggest would be to spruce up the plate with a wedge of fruit.
If others want to continue crowding up the regular brekkie places around, that's fine with me - means I don't have to wait in line here.Listed in: The Best of Vancouver's Main…, Breakfast and Brunch in…, Thinking Global, Eating Local
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/15/2009
Razzle dazzle at a reasonable price? Why yes, I think I will have that fresh raspberry cocktail,… Read more »
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Review from Bradley C.
Vancouver, BC
3/28/2010
At first taste, I would have given 8 1/2 four stars - really good food, nicely prepared, healthy ingredients. But then came the service. If I could give half stars, we'd be down to 1 1/2.
We went with a group for a friend's birthday party, and were really excited by the prospect. A few people arrived a bit later, one coming about an hour after the rest. However, it was a casual affair, and our friend ordered her food. About 5 minutes later, the hostess approached the birthday girl, and announced to the whole table: "There's another party booked in at 6:30, which is...in a few minutes. So you'll need to go."
Seriously? The other party hadn't even arrived yet. And, do you really kick out a paying party rather than keeping the other party occupied for another 10 minutes? And if they wanted us out so bad, why did they take an order from our friend - who then had to scarf her food and chug her beer?
And did I mention that the restaurant was half empty?
Then, we realised that one of our friends had lost a toy their baby was carrying. We asked the hostess to help us find it, but she responded as though we were causing her far more trouble than we were worth. By now, she was bordering on rude, rather than just unhelpful. We didn't find the toy, and she ignored our request to call if they happened to find it.
I'm disgusted. We bring business and get treated like annoyances to the staff. Will NOT be back. Such a disappointment, because the food might have made me a repeat customer. -
Review from Kristina C.
Vancouver, BC
11/8/2010
I came here on a Saturday night (on a Canucks game night) at around 8:30 pm for a late dinner with a friend.
We were greeted promptly and seated right away. The restaurant was 95% full, but it's quite small with limited seating. After a few minutes of looking over the menu, our server came by and asked if we'd like something to drink, but gave us a few minutes to decide as we needed more time to look over the menu. They have a variety of creative cocktails/martinis; my friend and I chose to have the red & white sangria, respectively, which were very tasty. Our server gave us a few recommendations for food and her favourite dishes from the restaurant. We ended up ordering two of her suggestions: the steak bites as an appetizer, and the West Coast spaghettini with pesto and chicken (subbed from the shrimp); we also ordered the mushroom risotto.
The portions are fairly decent: enough to fill you up, but not to make you too stuffed to move. The spaghettini was great, served with a creamy pesto, and they didn't cheap out on the chicken slices. The mushroom risotto was delicious, served with a large roasted portobello mushroom "steak," which was a tad salty but not inedible. The steak bites were awesome, tender and tasty, served with a ranch-like dipping sauce and some greens.
Overall, a very enjoyable experience. I will definitely be back.
Menu: small, but covers a lot. Everyone is sure to find something they like. Soups, salads, mix n match cheese and meat plates, appetizers like perogies, mac n cheese, and baked brie; thin crust pizzas, the usual for mains (choices of seafood, beef or chicken); full bar.
Service: very friendly staff, attentive but not obsessively so.
Price: reasonable: we each paid $32 for drinks, appetizers, and mains, including tax and tip.
Ambiance: dim lighting, nice decor: it felt quite homey. Music (indie rock) was at just the right volume: loud enough to hear it, not so loud that you had to raise your voice to be heard. The Canucks game was on behind the bar, and the audio was only turned up during the last 5 minutes of the game.Listed in: Hidden Hotspots
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Review from Monica H.
Vancouver, BC
2/18/2010
I love these kinds of places - the service is great, the prices are reasonable - and best of all the food is DELICIOUS. I was also pleased that the portion size was very satisfying. I ordered chicken wings which, for an appetizer, was quite large. The tuna tataki was also yummy and my friend had a pizza which she raved about.
Also nice, comfortable atmosphere. Simply delightful. -
Review from cat h.
Vancouver, BC
10/25/2011
I'm a huge breakfast person,most important meal of the day and all that. So I popped in here last Sunday with a slight hangover ready to eat anything including my shoes. What a delight it was to find such gracious,non bubble head waitresses, who were a little run off their feet but still so professional. Great coffee that was refilled over and over again without asking; excellent chorizo and poached egg topped with hollandaise sauce over rosemary potatoes...mmmmm......all done so well, remarkable considering how packed the place was. The place is clean and really confy with good tunes not blasting in my sobering ear. Will defo go back, perhaps to try the other delightful looking things on the menu.
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Review from Anita T.
Toronto, ON
9/4/2009
You know that you're in love with a place when you go there 3 times in 3 weeks... I'm just saying...
Eight 1/2 has a fabulous ambiance - so hip and trendy! And the food is amazing... My favorites include marketplace pizza, gourmet mac and cheese, and the veggie risotto!
And they also have a great great great wine list... and did I mention that this place is totally reasonably priced?! -
Review from Mark H.
12/25/2010 1 Check-in Here
Mysterious places deserve a try.
I first spotted this place when I tried Congee Noodle House (total pass btw) across the street. Nested in a heritage house, its dimly lit interior and bright yet subtle sign sparked my curiosity.
Stepping inside, this place was surprisingly bustling. Semi-loud music complemented by easily eavesdropped holiday dinner conversations (some very entertaining) , its small space was Eight 1/2 on the cozy scale.
Now onto the food. The gf and I had eaten earlier so only sampled friends' dishes. First up the Tuna Takaki. The server raved about how popular it was. Not in my books. The tuna was overcooked instead of a proper sear.
Next up, the Bouillabaisse. Having heard heard of such a thing, I can't compare. The soup base tasted almost Thai-like with a bunch of assorted seafood.
BBQ Chicken Pizza. Crust was soft, but not in a good way. Thin crust pizzas gotta be crispy. Chicken was bland. Tabasco sauce can only hide so much.
So here's the one highlight. Their special cheesecake, supposedly made by the owner's mom. Can't remember what exactly it was, but it was pretty darn good. However I was bummed they were sold out of the banana bread pudding, it looked amazing.
While this dinner didn't deliver, my next visit will be for brunch. This place is too cozy to not give it a 2nd chance. -
Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 8/16/2010 17 Check-ins Here
With a lot of consideration, I have decided to up my previous 4 star review to a five star. After Saturday night, I was going to keep it at 4 stars, but while lazing on Wreck beach all day Sunday my pals and I couldn't stop talking about the food - and I think that says something!
While others in my big group did have some spotty service, I didn't have a problem at all and the food and drinks we ordered were all wonderful - except for a tiny falter which I will detail below.
Baked brie - I cannot say enough about this snackie. Yum! A hefty wedge of brie wrapped in phyllo and drizzled with sambal sauce and honey. We schmeared it on crostinis and loved every bite. Win.
Tuna Tataki - Hmm. The fish was good quality, and came layered in slices with avocado, but.... I dunno - it was a bit lacklustre. Perhaps the squeeze bottled mayo and reduced soy drizzles reminded us too much of a cheap sushi restaurant, but we were left wishing for a) more salt and b) a wetter, saucier plate. Still good, though, and though mediocre not bad enough to reduce a star (I would take off a half star if I could)
Shrimp pesto pizza with parmesan dip - oh, salty, shrimpy, cheesy glory! This thin crusted pizza was one of the best I have ever had outside of a dedicated pizza joint. Absolutely fantastic.
Pitchers of cocktails - Watermelon mojito was fruity and fresh without being too sweet and the long island iced tea was made creamy and superyummy with the addition of egg whites - like a coke float! The pitchers were on special for 18.50 - amazing.
Mango cheesecake - light and whipped and absolutely decadent. Total win.
The prices were spectacular compared to other joints in the city with comparable quality - we cannot figure out why this place isn't hopping! It's location is a little bit hidden, but in such a convenient area otherwise. This is totally our new go-to for drinks and snacks.Listed in: My Very Favourites, The Brunch Glutton Has Her Say
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/8/2010
Yay! A new place to add to my arsenal of brunch joints!
Me and my bf strolled in right at 11am when… Read more »
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Review from Reena M.
9/28/2009
These guys were pretty accommodating for a larger birthday group. The food was of amazing quality and the prices were ultra reasonable. The server was pretty friendly and helpful. My only major qualm was that the food took a long time to get out. But the quality was surely there.
The charcuterie plates--well they could have been bigger. But I know that amount of charcuterie at other places cost more than $14.50. But still... $14.50 for a couple slices of meat and tiny wedges of cheese and a few baguette slices seemed much.
The margherita pizza was good. The ceviche was fresh! The halibut looked delicious (I heard it tasted great too!) and The banana bread pudding was yummy! The soups, I was told, were tasty too.
I would totally come back here again for good quality comfort food. I would like to try the mac and cheese there!Listed in: Date Night in Vancouver
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Review from Pennylane S.
Vancouver, BC
4/10/2010
My three stars go purely to the look of 8 1/2. I'm a big fan of simple decor, good beers on tap and attention to detail - which this place has.
The food is also not bad. Some interesting things being done with fresh, simple Westcoast ingredients. Brunch/Breakfast has a great reputation however I didn't find it anything to write home about. The chorizo is always overly dry although the greek inspired eggs benedict is good.
The service is definitely where this place looses points. Wanting a side soup with my meal, I specifically asked whether or not I could add it for the side price. The waitress was very happy to obliged although when the bill came the soup (which was mediocre) was a totally separate price ($6.50). When I brought it to the attention of the waitress she said it only came in one size and nothing could be done. Of course, I would have appreciated a heads-up earlier.
Having put a damper on my impression of this place, the service was still nice enough and I would definitely go back. Next time, probably just to drink. -
Review from Natalie D.
Richmond, BC
2/27/2011
THE AMBIENCE
What a fabulous place for a date. The combination of dark, contemporary décor with old exposed architectural elements in this sliver of a building was cozy and inviting when we came in on a stormy evening. The lighting was flattering. The sound was great - just enough volume to make you feel like you could have a discreet conversation in the midst of the dinner crowd.
THE SERVICE
We were there for an early dinner on a Saturday when half of Vancouver was staying home to avoid a long-promised snowfall. The service seemed genuine. Everything arrived at our table quickly.
THE FOOD
Not only was the food presented beautifully, the portions were really quite generous. My husband's bouillabaise was tangy and served with fresh bread that actually melted in the mouth (I stole a bite). My free range chicken breast came stuffed with two of my favourite flavors - feta cheese and sun dried tomatoes. So good! The mashed potatoes were just garlicky enough. If I was going to be picky, I would say my vegetables were a little undercooked - but even that made them seem more fresh. I was glad they weren't slathered in butter. The slice of cucumber in the ice water was the piece de resistance. And like my husband says, "Any place that serves Pellegrino with a wine glass is okay by me."
THE VERDICT
Can't wait to go back! -
Review from Jenna H.
Vancouver, BC
8/18/2009
An awesome new lounge with great appies, lots of wine choices and very friendly service! We met the owner and he explained his passion for using local produce and ingredients which I appreciate. My friends and I split 4 tapas and they were all deliciously yummy. I remember the goat cheese plate being particularly good.
The ambiance is funky while still being charming and sophisticated. There is a tiny patio in the front which I plan on sitting on sometime soon! -
Review from Tabatha Anne Y.
Richmond, BC
10/2/2010 8 Check-ins Here
Came here for the first time on Thursday, and was very impressed.
Thursday's specials are $3.50 highballs and baked brie for $7.50. Excellent, two of my favourite things in the world. I ordered a rum and coke, the brie and a beet salad because every time I see a beet salad I MUST HAVE IT.
The service was great. I've read it can be hit or miss but we had no problems except for when we were done it took a long while before our bill was brought to us.
The ambiance and decor is amazing. I love the old/new mash up Vancouver photos on the wall.
Ok, so the food came and holy crap was it ever good. The brie is wrapped in filo pastry, topped with honey and has cooked apples and fresh strawberries on the side, as well as crusty bread. YUM! The beet salad is presented really well on a red cabbage leaf. It's not so much a salad as a hockey puck of beets that looks really pretty. Once you take a bite of you fall in love. Seriously, one of the best beet salads I've had.
Going back again next Thursday! I can see why Nicole F. loves it so much here and comes so often. -
Review from courtney j.
Vancouver, BC
2/3/2010
We went recently for a set menu that supported the food bank - and I have to say how truly disappointing the experience was.
We started with the roasted beet salad, which was a cold potato glob with blueberry jam, not that many beets, not warm, or all that tasty. My main was the arctic char served with salsa and wild mushroom risotto, and here's where it really went sideways - while the arctic char was good, the "wild mushroom" risotto was wayyyy undercooked (read crunchy, not al dente) and not a mushroom in sight, just some spinach and raw garlic. Yuck.
The service was so-so and it seemed that they were talking to each other more than to the customers.
Great potential here, but failing miserably on execution.
