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Provence Marinaside
Categories: Restaurants Seafood Restaurants French Seafood, French
1177 Marinaside CresVancouver, BC V6Z 2Y3
Neighbourhoods: Downtown, Yaletown
(604) 681-4144
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 8 am - 3 pm
Mon-Thu, Sun 5 pm - 10:30 pm
Fri-Sat 5 pm - 11 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 3 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:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner, Brunch
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
70 reviews for Provence Marinaside
Review Highlights
"the berry and white chocolate clafoutis."
(in 6 reviews)
"We come almost every weekend for breakfast/brunch."
(in 33 reviews)
"...Belgian Sugar Waffles and Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict."
(in 2 reviews)
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70 reviews in English
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Review from Odette C.
Vancouver, BC
1/23/2012 2 Check-ins Here
1st Dine Out restaurant for 2012 DineOut Vancouver happening Jan 20 - Feb 5.
$38 per person
Appy:
Seafood salad antipasto & salad. Good mix of calamari, shrimp, clams, mussels in the antipasto. The salad is an ordinary salad.
Duck Liver parfait & salad. duck liver mousse in a small container, the mousse is quite smooth but not as flavourful as I'd expect. Salad again is ordinary salad.
*appetizers were good, nothing out of this world in taste or presentation
Entree:
6 oz Beef Tenderloin. One of our Beef Tenderloin came out well done and we asked for medium rare. Our server was nice enough to exchange. Mine came out medium well but it was still good. It was good quality beef but honestly the red wine and peppercorn jus tasted like regular demiglace.
*Good beef, sauce not impressive but ok
Dessert:
White chocolate and berry clafoutis. Wonderful. The crust is warm and crispy. The clafoutis is light and not too sweet. The warm dessert in contrast with the cold vanilla ice cream...Perfection, best part of my meal
Lavender and Grand Marnier cheese cake. Also very good with the right amount of sweetness.
*Dessert was the best part of our meal. Both desserts we ordered are top notch
Anyways for $38 per person we really can't complain too much. Good value overall balanced with good food, just don't expect a culinary adventure. -
Review from Jon V.
White Rock, BC
1/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
Always wanted to come here after watching a tv show about them many years ago. We had reservations for a weekend brunch and there was no line up outside. The day was cold but inside was almost full with customers in casual dress. Always expected the dress to be more than casual but perhaps dinner time is different.
I had the Ham & Cheese omelette since I wasn't in the mood for seafood. Others at my table had lasagne and shrimp eggs benedict. I thought if my basic omelette wasn't right than how good could the other items in the menu be. Of course, every restaurant has their few dishes that are exceptional but I don't know what it could be here.
Honestly when my omelette arrived I wasn't impressed. It looked like I was eating at iHOP. The ham was cut in squares and was mixed into the egg mixture before it was cooked. Cheese and herbs placed in the middle as usual. Side of potatoes and some fresh cut fruit was all that came for $14. Near the end of my meal I had swallowed a hard piece that could have been an egg shell but had no clue as it was long gone. Coffee was good though and I heard from my table guests that their drinks were very good.
Overall, we had a good experience but I think I need to give it another chance if I find out what their best dishes are. I'm not taking any more chances if I go again. It's disappointing when you have a bit of a drive to come in to Vancouver and try a place that you've been waiting for years to go to and this was the first experience. -
Review from Annie W.
1/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Want good service? Go somewhere else.
The extra star is for the patio, which is lovely during summers when a lot can be forgiven over a couple of glasses of wine and a beautiful sunny day. It's too bad for Provence that sunny days in Vancouver are few and far between, meaning on most days its hard to forgive their horrendous service.
Popped in this weekend with some out-of-town friends for lunch. The first part of our meal was pretty standard and our server was perfectly unexceptional as she basically disappeared after dropping off our food. My coffee cup then sat empty for the entire meal, almost 45 minutes, until I managed to get the attention of another server (and half the patrons in the restaurant) by yelling "Excuse Me!" three times to get her attention when she was literally within arms reach and clearly trying very hard to ignore me. After we finished our lunch, and declined dessert, our server promptly reappeared with our bill.
By then it was around 2pm, we weren't in any rush to leave, and figured we could sit and chat for a bit as the restaurant was 1/3 empty so it wasn't like they needed our table. Our server Miss. Meghan, however, seemed to think otherwise. Over the next half hour she came by three times to drop obvious, rude, passive-aggressive, eye-rolling hints that she wanted us to pay up and leave. At one point she came over and interrupted one of my friends mid-sentance by speaking over her and loudly asking, "SO can I get you some CHANGE?" It was so aggravating, that by her third visit we just wanted to get out of there. We left her with two negative comment cards and a 10% tip only because the kitchen staff held up their end of the bargain that day.
Here's the thing, if she had simply told us nicely that she was going off shift and asked if we wouldn't mind settling up our bill, we would've gladly done so without hesitation. Can the servers at Cactus Club really be so much more advanced than the sorry excuses they hire at this supposed fine dining establishment? It appears so. -
Review from Megan S.
Vancouver, BC
12/14/2011
We chose Provence Marinaside for our corporate Christmas party, partly because we wanted to book a private room to feel like a "real" company, but mostly because they offered the best value for booking a medium-sized group with a set menu. (Note: we're a small business, so many of the minimum spends quoted by other restaurants were beyond our reach.)
The private room's view is wonderful - right on the seawall so you can watch passing sailboats and cyclists and yuppies going for a jog. 12 people were seated comfortably. You have the option of using a projector and screen in the room, so if you're holding a presentation meeting, do it with good food and wine at the Provence Marinaside. (Or, force everyone to watch The Room during the meal... I threatened to.)
We chose a set menu with 5 courses, and Provence happily adapted to some of the dietary requirements of our group (seafood allergy, vegan boyfriend.) Our group raved about their entrees. My fish was easily the best-cooked sablefish I have ever eaten - very tempted to lick the plate for all the buttery sauce. David's vegan pasta was also gluten free; neat!
The pacing of the meal and service was carefully considered. We'd had time to digest a bit between each course, and neither felt rushed or impatient for the next plate.
The wine selection fills a large book; we had enough wine and port nerds to help us choose something appropriate. Failing that, I'm sure the staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to assist. The service overall was excellent and we had no complaints.
I highly recommend booking Provence Marinaside for any function or private party. -
Review from Kelly C.
Vancouver, BC
12/10/2011
First of all, it amazes me how few much-raved-about restaurants in town seem to understand the importance of customer service. Provence Marinaside is one of a handful of restaurants who were not only prompt and polite in their responses to my enquiries for a holiday dinner party, but offered great group menu selections at very reasonable prices.
Provence Marinaside was very accommodating to our group's dietary needs. On the night of our dinner, not only was the food impeccable - perhaps the best sable fish and house-made vanilla ice cream I've had (not together) - but the service was very attentive. The appetizer portions were generous and the quality was spot on. (Their sorbet with sparkling wine is delightful.) Everyone raved about their entrees, the dessert was amazing, and their private room was very cozy. We would definitely consider Provence Marinaside for our next dinner party. -
Review from Melissa K.
Vancouver, BC
11/23/2011
Provence, you have good food but your service is lacking, major. The only reason why you have 2 stars is because your food is so fresh and delicious, but I still refuse to come back because your service is so bad, that I have to tell all my friends about my experience and stop them if they ever want to go.
I used to come often for brunch, and I used to recommend this place often. They have one of the best patios and is great for people watching in the summer. Their food never really disappoints. Tip, if you don't get a bread basket, you have to ask for it. It's free, but they don't always give it to you. I assume it's an environmental thing, which I think all restaurants should have. Ask for bread, and you shall receive. Why waste bread that no one eats?
The last time I came here for brunch with a friend of mine, it was the worst service I've ever had in my life. So bad that I even wrote an email to the owner, NO response. Surprise!
We sat down, ordered our food, and I asked for a bread basket. Didn't come. Our food came after a while, I asked for the bread basket again, didn't come. It look me 10 mins just to flag down our waitress, who was middle aged and seemed like she didn't care about her job. I didn't know whether I should start eating my food or wait for the bread, in which case my food would get cold. Weirdest thing was, our waitress was serving everyone around us, but not us. For the life of me I couldn't wave her down. I couldn't help but think that maybe it's because we're Asian? Everyone else was Caucasian. Coincidence? Who knows.
Finally, we got our bread, but we had already finished our meal. Whatever. We're Asian, we like free bread.
It took us another 10 mins to flag down the server to refill our water. Get this, when she refilled our water, she missed the glass and poured water ALL OVER OUR TABLE, and just walked away. No apology, nothing. Just poured water all over the table. Seriously?
Another 15 mins to get the bill. Worst experience ever. I've never been made to feel so invisible at a restaurant. We paid a 10% tip, which was 20% over what we were willing to pay for that meal. -
Review from Scott H.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 11/1/2011
I don't know a place in Vancouver that irks me more than Provence. The clientele is terrible, and yes I understand I'm part of the clientele so then I am also terrible. But it's my rant not yours, so bugger off.
As per usual there was a line. People came into the line, bumped us in the line, bumped through us in the line and acted like they were part of a magical VIP area...even though I watched them split their bill and count it down to the penny. Hey douchebags, VIP's don't skimp.
The service was substandard, the waitress basically forgot about our table. (sigh).
That said I reluctantly agree the food was great. I had the basic breakfast so not hard to screw up, but friends had the veggie benny and were over the moon.
(sigh), so I'd like to give it a 2 because honestly the clientele is as pompous as anywhere in the city, the service was weak, but the chef's do work hard and do deliver so I'll give it a 3 and will likely return, but i won't be happy about it.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/3/2011
I really want to tell you this place blows. I mean it's full of Yaletown douchebaggery. But the… Read more »
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Review from Siri W.
8/8/2011
I had no idea the food at this place was so expensive, until I checked it out on Yelp. Both times I've been taken here, it was as part of a larger party with the cheque covered. By the quality of the food, I'd say they have to be charging for location. Don't get me wrong. The food wasn't bad, it just wasn't anything to write home about. At all.
But I do think it's one of the best patio's in Vancouver, and that's what my extra star is for. It's a gorgeous place to enjoy the late summer sunshine, watch the water and enjoy living in the most beautiful city in the world :)
In fact, I'd say its worth the trip just for that...just keep your food order on the small side and it should balance out. -
Review from Juliette J.
7/14/2011
Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord in vain. So says one of the Ten Commandments.
Weeeeelll, forgive me Father/Lord/God, for I have sinned. I called your name about 1000 times in vain @ Provence Marinaside. But seriously, Lord, have you ever been there? I suggest you send a cherub to collect a sample of their entire menu because it'll make you say your own name too!
May I suggest:
Antipasti: Baked Eggplant, Risotto balls
Entree: Wild mushroom ravioli
Dessert: Berry White Chocolate Clafoutis
Fancied by others: Bouillabaisse, Vegetarian Platter, Beef Tenderloin.
All I have to say is: OH.MY.GOD!
And many thanks for the excellent service, and wine, and private dining room for 30+ people. I picked this restaurant for our quarterly business dinner and every single person was enamored with the ridiculously delicious food. For that matter, they thought it was one of the best restaurants we've selected for our quarterly meetings. I must agree. 30+ people cannot be wrong. Provence Marinaside is a win.Listed in: Dear Winter, Die!
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Review from Amy H.
Richmond, BC
9/2/2011
I have been to Provence Marinaside for years! Their dinner menu is awesome! Even though the price is a bit pricier than other seafood restaurants, the lobster ravioli and seafood pasta are just amazing!
The service is always good and we felt welcomed all the time.
However, their afternoon high tea isn't that great. I did not have any wow experience. -
Review from Eat F.
Vancouver, BC
11/23/2011
Personal Remarks: The name of this restaurant is not WOW or very descriptive and if it was not for a meeting that went too long with my lawyers then I'm sure I would not have eaten at this restaurant. I don't remember much about the meeting, but I do remember the meal. They said they frequent this restaurant so that means the food must be delicious (and expensive). I was just glad they paid for the meal. But I'm sure I indirectly paid for it with the legal bill. The patrons dressed very professional and the crowd was definitely classy. Everything on the menu was simple and the ingredients seem seasonal which is a good sign that everything is fresh. I was here for lunch so the portions were not grandiose and an appetizer is recommended over the side salad. No point going to a high end restaurant when you can get the spring mix from Costco yourself. The Ahi Tuna was enough for me and it will be enough for a lot of you too. Tuna isn't overly hard to cook, but it is easy to over cook. The tuna was perfectly cooked, with a decent (not great) amount of sides. The portions will not fill you up, it will just make you content for the time being, 2 hours later I found myself hungry again. The menu looks good and there are other dishes I want to try too like the spaghetti or seafood linguine which the lawyers ordered. But when they came out there wasn't a lot of pasta so if you want a nice size or portion, you won't get it. It just looks fresh and flavorful.
Ambiance: Intimate and Romantic, Up Scale
Seating/Wait time: Reservations recommended. Sometimes they are extremely busy, and other times they can fit you in. I've been there once and they had not seats, another time I went without reservations and there was ample seating.
Dress Code: Dressy Casual, please don't wear your runners or sports wear to this place.
Crowd: Upper Middle Class, 22 years +
Meal:
Ahi Tuna $24.00
chick pea fennel ragout, spinach, olives, baby bell pepper and caper berry vinaigrette
Value: 4/5 -
Review from Liz M.
Vancouver, BC
8/28/2011
Provence Marinaside is a regular stop for me for brunch or lunch. The location is very beautiful. You really can't beat eating next to the water. The patio is a good choice for people watching in Yaletown.
They serve very well prepared food. I have never been disappointed. And I appreciate their use of free-range eggs. Don't bother with their choice of ordering a selection of prepared items from their deli case, just go straight to their menu and order off that. The cooked to order meals are very well flavoured and beautifully presented. Staff are friendly and knowledgable. An excellent choice for dining. -
Review from Mark D.
7/5/2011
This is one of my favorite brunch spots in Vancouver. There can be a wait to get a spot on the patio but, on a beautiful Sunday morning, it is well worth the wait.
I will note that every once in awhile I have had a brusk server. I am not sure they always have enough staff on so the servers may be spread a little thin.
I always order the same thing.
I get the Basket Of Fresh Baked Goods to share. It is a basket of baked goodies including muffins and croissants,
I then get the traditional two egg breakfast with bacon. There is nothing extraordinary about it. But it is always well prepared and presented.
I round it out with some fresh orange juice or a strawberry banana smoothie.
It is just a nice spot near the water to enjoy a weekend brunch on sunny day. -
Review from Ken T.
Vancouver, BC
7/6/2011
You get what you pay for here! Service is great! View is awesome. I keep coming back here for brunch and am always quite amused at how it seems to look completely different at night time since the windows are huge. Great for both though!
Recent meal: Eggs benedict with smoked salmon, perfect as always!
Past dinner: Seared Sablefish came out perfect and was very moist and favourful
Highly recommended for a romantic meal or chilling for a lazy morning brunch -
Review from Hootie J.
Vancouver, BC
5/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
I reviewed the Hurricane Grill a little while back and was intrigued with The "Provence", So for a special occasion we booked it for Mothers Day part 1.
Nice decor, nice atmosphere (specifically several "enhanced" female staff (my three year old nephew could not take his eyes of the "Hostess with the Most-ess nudge nudge wink wink)
Unfortunately we went on playoff hockey night and the only "TV" they have is a 20" behind the bar (It was ok Canucks lost :(
So we had 6 adults and one toddler and they were very accommodating to my nephew, crayons and things to use them on (Although I know what he REALLY wanted to use them on ... nudge nudge wink wink)
Food was great, Might have been because they start with fresh baked bread (warm and moist mmmm) Out of the 6 adults everyone enjoyed their meal, and for my nephew they had chicken strips that "past the mustard" with him.
Over all I would recommend it for a "upper~middle of the road" diner. Way better than the standard Vancouver options (Earls/Cactus club/ milestones /Keg) and not any more expensive.
And if you need sports the Hurricane Grill is right next door... -
Review from Maggie L.
Vancouver, BC
4/8/2011
I have been coming here since I was 12 as Yaletown has always been my 2nd home. The luxe shopping, the historical brick walls, the beautiful people..what more can you ask for? A good patio and yummy dining of course!
Provence has been around for ages situated on its landmark corner on Marinaside and Davie. From the outside seating may look like it's limited but it is quite large inside. Getting a table has never been an issue, unless you're looking for patio dining or coming here during a special event (Vday, Christmas etc etc). Service is always friendly and that tall brunette is always super friendly; Can't say for the waiter with the goatee though. He's always a hit and miss as sometimes it seems like he'll pay more attention to his more "frequent" diners. Hmmm.
As for the food, I personally think the quality has gone a tinge down South since my years as a young girl. However, it's still yummy and I can't really complain. A huge favorite of mine is the Ahi Tuna and the spaghettini! Always packed full of flavour and there really isn't a prawns/scallop pasta that can beat Provence's. Their showcase in the main entrance is also great when deciding on what to get as an appie. I absolutely love their grilled squid. SO delicious.
As for dessert, you can never go wrong with their Berry White Chocolate Clafoutis. TRY IT and you'll understand when I say 'best ever.' -
Review from Lisa L.
Vancouver, BC
3/21/2011
Came here twice, the first time for pre-wedding day brunch with the wedding party and the second time with co-workers for an office party. Both times were a lot of fun. The food is simple but delicious. The service is welcoming. The best part, however, is the decor and view.
I loved the fabric drapery across the ceiling and the warm, lush colours against the backdrop of the ocean. Beautiful but cozy. -
Review from Rebecca J.
Vancouver, BC
5/8/2011
I love this place for brunch and I've eaten here a few times for dinner. Picked it for this year's Mother's Day outing with the In-laws. It didn't let me down.
Top marks, first off, for being so great about kids. I called to confirm it would be OK to bring a four-year old with us and the woman on the phone was so welcoming and made it very clear that they were cool with kids in the restaurant.
We got there early, had a great table and someone immediately brought colouring sheets and crayons for my nephew. Some of our party were a bit late but the server was so relaxed and it seemed to be no problem.
She was really great, in fact; just the right balance of checking in with us, and leaving us to it. Perfect!
Food was super, as always. I LOVE their bread! And they had kids options available off-menu. The wine list is fairly priced too.
The bill with tax and tip came to about $480, and that included a bottle of wine, a martini and several other cocktails, as well as some appetizers and desserts. Good value, in my opinion, for a nice family dinner out.
Will be back again. Absolutely. -
Review from Sarah O.
Updated - 7/18/2011
I've been back here a bunch of times since my last review. The latest visit made me swear off the place for good. Nothing horribly wrong- I just find the quality getting worse and worse and after dropping $60 for 3 on a simple, small-portioned, below-average tasting food, mediocre service, I'm wiping my hands clean. Can't say I'll miss the place- No harm no foul.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/24/2010
On a taste scale, the food here is above average. However, some problems arise when my food comes… Read more »
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Review from Anita T.
Toronto, ON
11/11/2010 ROTD 12/2/2010
I don't eat seafood.
I know you're all asking now, "So why is she reviewing a restaurant known for their seafood?"
Well, my friends - as it turns out - Provence Marinaside is just as veggie friendly as any other restaurant out there (And I suppose you have to be to stay in business in Vancouver)... but I was still pretty impressed.
The mushroom risotto just melts in your mouth, and the veggie platter - well, it's just that: a platter with mounds of roasted veggies, lentils, salad, bread... wow! who would've thought I'd be able to fill up at a marinaside restaurant?! -
Review from Brittany G.
Vancouver, BC
2/24/2011
One of my top upscale brunch picks is Provence Marinaside.
Coffee, food, service, and atmosphere are all on point. Can't beat the patio on a sunny morning!
This is also a great spot for people watching. Have seen Ashley Tisdale and Aly Michalka (Hellcats actresses) a few times, and other celebs.Listed in: Best Brunch
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Review from .Nette T.
11/15/2010 2 photos
After a day of pouring rain, the skies opened and the sun peeked out. It was a sunny and cool and we wanted brunch. I've experienced a lot of different kinds of food in Vancouver but this would be my first foray into brunch.
Our concierge recommended Provence Marinaside in Yaletown. Resturant was on a small street facing the water with tables on the patio with heaters.
We ordered Belgian Sugar Waffles and Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict.
The Belgian waffles were fluffy, slighty crunchy and just about the best waffle I've ever had - and that's saying a lot since I don't like anything sweet for breakfast. It was lightly dusted with powdered sugar and came with roasted raspberries, whipped cream and maple syrup. It was heaven in every single bite. Nothing was left on the plate aftewards.
The Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict came with salmon and poached eggs on corn pancakes with my request of Hollandaise sauce on the side. The yukon gold potatoes that came with a sprinkling of chopped chives were nice and crispy. I was glad that it was chives instead of the usual rosemary.
The poached eggs were perched on top of the smoked salmon. The eggs, when broken, ran perfectly down the salmon and corn pancakes. The Hollandaise sauce was not memorable for me since I'm not a fan of it but it tasted okay when I dipped my lovely egg, salmon and pancake combo in it.
We really enojoyed our brunch here, it definitely satisfied our Benny and Belgian waffle cravings. The food and the harbour views have earned a permanent spot on my list of good eats for Vancouver.Listed in: Vancouver
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Review from notcalvin c.
4/13/2011
The atmosphere was definitely nice at Provence - we sat by the window overlooking the boats and water - quite romantic, haha! Inside seemed more casual than I expected, but I liked it this way.
Food was OK... my friend had a mix of seafood (dish starting with a B.....*somethingsomething).... and I had the sablefish. It was alright...
Probably will try other places next time, but I would be open to coming back! -
Review from Johnson C.
Vancouver, BC
12/13/2010
Instead of going for our usual weekend dim sum gathering, my crew decided to go for brunch at Provence Marinaside. To be honest, I was not looking forward to it - it's pretty hoity-toity, in Yaletown and I'm more used to $2.99 Bon's breakfast. I still to refuse to acknowledge my yuppie-dom.
A 'Continental Breakfast' is just another name for extortion. Honestly, I feel I could at least be cuddled when someone has the audacity to charge me more than a few bucks for a couple eggs, sausage and toast - I mean, it's the right thing to do after being sodomized, no?
Breakfast rant aside, Provence does have a nice dining space. Well-lit with a good view of the water and has a nice homely feel. I got daily special roast beef panini au jus... *ahem* $13 beef dip - which was decent for the price point.
Service was commendable though - we had a large group and there was a 18% gratuity charge. This usually raises red flags for me as service tends to suffer as the server knows their tip is guaranteed. However, the server kept re-upping my coffee - kinda like my usual breakfast joints, just with less sass and hairnets.
Parking in the attached garage lot is $4/hour but you can redeem the 1st hour against your bill.
Definitely not a place I would frequent for breakfast - but it was largely passable. Provence was a gentle lover and was nice enough to leave some money on the nightstand so I could take a cab home. -
Review from Kat D.
7/18/2011
$85 for lunch for two without alcohol ! That food better have
been fantastic and it wasn't special. They seem to be charging for the location. The Caesar salad, for the price, should have had very good quality Parmigiano with the slight crunch that signals it. I know that pancetta is salty but this was so salty that I could feel the roof of my mouth dry out. The place was mostly empty since it was late lunch on a Monday but for some reason they kept seating new arrivals either behind us or on the other side of our window so that all of us could have that fishbowl experience.
Another thing that detracted from the attempt at elegance was that the waitress's black pants were much too tight, even if we had been at Joey's. Dessert was a one-note anemic and tangy lemon tart with tasteless hazelnuts. If I hadn't seen the nuts I wouldn't have believed they were there. Maybe they should have been toasted. With about 5 tables to serve I would have thought there would have been less confusion about which person ordered what. I know writing orders on paper is not usual at these type of places but it would have helped today! At least the hostess was better than the openly unhappy and bored creature who was there on my last visit, again as a guest.
The owner was there that night which was even more perplexing since all of us noticed the stone- faced young hostess stifling her yawns. The next time I am invited to eat here I will suggest someplace else. -
Review from Pamela L.
Vancouver, BC
8/18/2010
This my favourite place for brunch. This isn't some hip joint where the decor is minimalist and cool and it isn't the place to been seen, to be heard and to gawk at the hostess. This is a sophisticated, traditional restaurant where the main goal is to relax, enjoy the view and set forth on a wonderful dining experience. The food is savoury, the service is stellar and the ambiance is relaxing.
I admit, I don't come to Provence as often as I would like. If I had a choice, I'd be here every weekend. I don't think I've ever been to this place without having to wait a couple of minutes for a seat - but this is fine, since I always enjoy looking at their offerings in the antipasto section that is showcased for individuals who just want to grab their treasures and enjoy them at home.
The antipasto section is a good teaser of what is to come. There are several varieties of grilled vegetables, herring and a wide array of olives. Also present to tease the eye and the stomach are the desserts. I stare at them with wide eyes and a bit of fear knowing that I will soon be wrestling with the decision of either ordering the Lavender and Grand Marnier cheese cake or the Berry and White Chocolate Clafoutis.
The view is spectacular. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy seeing people enjoy their day walking around false creek with their groceries, their dog, their loved ones, or sitting by the marina engrossed in the plot of their book. I'm always sitting there, with a mouthful of the Merguez panini or a bite of the Wild Mushroom Ravioli hoping the people who have provided me with my people watching are entertainment are enjoying their day as much as I am enjoying my brunch. -
Review from Cyndi H.
Vancouver, BC
9/26/2010
I'm not a breakfast person, but came here yesterday morning and was happy to see some lunch items on the brunch menu! I ordered Wild Mushroom Ravioli with wine and butter sauce. It was so great, esp when I thought I'd be stuck eating eggs (I find them boring- crazy, I know).
Sitting on the blaringly sunny patio was like heaven. Come here if you like to catch some rays with your morning pasta ; )Listed in: Fun Date Material, Your Mom, Breaky, Seafood, Plenty of Fish!
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Review from Andrea C.
Vancouver, BC
8/26/2011
Nice location. Probably some of the best food in the city for the price. Could do with a decor update which is why I am giving it 4 stars instead of 5. A little dated. Super place to go on a sunny day for brunch.
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Review from Rebecca H.
North Vancouver, BC
7/16/2010
I chose Provence Marinaside as the locale for my family birthday dinner this year; I had never even seen the restaurant before, but I had heard good things and most of the yelp reviews seemed favorable. However, the restaurant was not as wonderful as described; it was far better!
As soon as we arrived, we were seated at a table near the window where we could seem in the marina and watch the people walking by. The wait staff was courteous, helpful, and not at all pretentious. Within seconds of seating down, four glasses of water appeared as well as an olive-anchovy tapenade to wet our appetites. We spent some time examining the menu in detail; there were so many things that we wanted to try, but we finally settled on our choices. Once the orders had been placed, we received a basket of rosemary foccacia and plain baguette, as well as a few crostini topped with a dollop of tuna spread.
The first portion of our meal to arrive was a set of tapa style appetizers. We ordered the grilled artichokes, grilled asparagus, and risotto balls. They were all incredibly delicious, and beautifully presented with several olives on the side. For dinner, I ordered the Ahi Tuna; it came seared to perfection, atop a bed of grilled vegetables. I savored every bite. My family ordered the Nicoise style Grilled Salmon, the Spaghettini with Prawns and Scallops, and the Wild Pacific Salmon with a Tarragon and Mustard Glaze. Judging from the smiles on their faces and the fact that every plate was scraped clean, I would guess that their dinners were on par wit h mine. During dinner, our waitress was very good about refilling glasses and clearing dishes, without ever making us feel pressured or watched.
For dessert, we ordered a Lemon Tarte and the Berry-White Chocolate Clafouti. The Clafouti came not only with a dollop of ice cream, but also with a candle and Happy Birthday written in chocolate across the plate. It was not sickly sweet or overly heavy, but instead the perfect pairing of custardy cake, tart berries, and velvety ice cream. I, who rarely finishes a full dessert on her own, was disinclined to share more than a small bite with the other members of my family. This dessert certainly comes in the league of the top ten plates I have consumed in the past year.
In conclusion, thank you Provence Marinaside for a stellar dinner. Your attention to detail, your mouthwateringly delicious food, and your outstanding service created a birthday celebration that will certainly be hard to top. If only I could give you six stars. -
Review from Stephanie M.
Vancouver, BC
9/19/2010 5 Check-ins Here
I think this was my first official visit to the much-hyped Provence (at least, if I did visit before it was so long ago that I don't remember), and I wasn't at all disappointed. Our server was friendly and unpretentious and dealt with our numerous requests (water, milk and sweetener for the coffee etc.) almost instantly. The atmosphere is amazing - you can sit outside on the patio and people-watch to your heart's content, with the marina as a stunning backdrop. We were there for more of a "late lunch" but I opted to try the brunch menu.
As for the food, my ham and cheese omelette was cooked perfectly, well-proportioned (ie. it wasn't overrun by cheese or ham, but there was plenty of both) and a generous size. I am normally not a fan of potatoes, but the roasted potatoes that came with the omelette were delicious - nicely seasoned and not over- or under-cooked. As someone who can't eat gluten, I always appreciate a decent substitute for the usual toast when I go out for brunch. Finally, they also served fresh fruit with my meal, which is definitely the fastest way for a brunch spot to gain my approval. The coffee was delicious and I was offered refills before I had to ask. My fellow diner's meal of the goat cheese salad and fish soup was excellent, as well (though she found it had a bit too much dressing this time compared to her previous visits).
This was a great experience - I'll definitely come back, either for brunch again or to try out the lunch and dinner menu.Listed in: Best Brunch
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Review from Victoria R.
Vancouver, BC
7/23/2010
Took my one-and-only here for his birthday dinner last night. Knowing that all he'd want was a steak and a great view, I called ahead to several places - Provence was the only one that said they had an awesome view. When I reserved the table I noted to them that it was a special occasion and I'd appreciate a nice romantic table (i.e., secluded and away from the foottraffic)
Upon arrival I realised that their 'amazing view' was blocked by parked cars. We had dinner staring out at a Honda and Toyota - not the marina. We were seated one table in from the entrance to the patio, meaning that the servers passed by every time they were waiting on any of the tables further down. The tables were pressed together so tightly that when I sat back in my chair, my head bumped the head of the diner in the table behind me. FAIL.
I certainly didn't think that it was worth the $200 pricetag that our meal cost (midrange bottle of wine, two mains, two antipasti ($5/each) and 2 desserts).
While the location is lovely - being right on the marina, the restaurant doesn't really classify as upscale enough for the cost. I could have had a $200 meal at Don Francesco's and eaten far better, with far more ambiance. I'd also note that I've been in bars that have patios and the servers offer the clientele a blanket - nothing like that here.. it says something when a bar takes better care of its customers than a 'high end' restaurant.
The food was good - I won't fault it that (though it wasn't spectacular and frankly, I've had better food served at chain restaurants), and our server was attentive, if a little too familiar (sorry, maybe I'm a traditionalist, but I don't like to be called "hun" by my server, especially if she is in the same age-group as I am. I could possibly let it slide with a little old lady server.. but really - repeatedly calling your patrons "HUN" while pretending to be high scale = FAIL.)
Needless to say - I wouldn't make this a choice for a special occasion or a meal in which you are looking for a higher scale of service and food. For a casual place to dine on date night, I suppose it would be fine - except in that instance the pricetag really isn't justifiable.
Sorry La Provence. -
Review from Melody M.
8/17/2010
I love this place for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This seafood restaurant is spacious and situated by the False Creek water. You can enjoy eating while watching beautiful people and their dogs :)
Two of my favorite things are the mimosa's you can get at breakfast, the half cold lobster with fresh baked french bread for lunch, and the fresh oysters and seared sablefish for dinner (okay, maybe I have a lot of favorite things in the menu). Oh, there is also a deli attached to the restaurant where you can get stuff to go. -
Review from Lindsay A.
10/24/2010 1 photo
There is a plethora of amazing restaurants in Vancouver. Provence is a great little spot.
Make sure you make a reservation if you plan to go for brunch.
So close to the water and right in yaletown it's location is terrific. Parking might be an issue. I have family that lives above so it's never a problem for me.
Here's whats great
The Hollandaise.
It's made fresh, it's lemony, it's wonderful.
I am super picky about my Hollandaise.
I love the Benny with crab cakes.
Delicate omelets
Great Bouliabaisse
go to here -
Review from geraldine g.
Toronto, ON
Hands down, one of my top five places to eat in Vancouver.
As you know, I love brunch and dinner so this review is for both.
First off, brunch. Oh my freakin' goodness! Now, the standard fare, scrambled eggs (omega 3), veggies and bacon or sausage is fabulous! It's exactly as you would expect. Everything cooked as you would like it to be. Nothing to dry or overcooked. I'm always happy with my order but one brunch day, I caved from my usual. Now, I can't order anything else from them at brunch but this - a grilled chicken crepe from their savoury brunch selection. A mixed mushroom and asparagus sauce with mixed fresh herbs and grated gruyere.
I inhaled that dish! I swear, I didn't think I took a breath before I finished. I was surprised with myself the first time it happened. I've never done that to food before. Yikes! Please try this ...it is unbelieveable!
The great thing about dinner here is the anitpasti collection. It is $5 a tasting dish. I recommend ordering a bunch to share among friends. All the things I've tried didn't disappoint. For example: merguez(spicy lamb sausage with fennel in tomato sauce); chicken skewers (marinated with lemon and fresh herbs); boccocini and tomatoe salad are among just a few you could try.
I had their Vension one evening! It was my first time eating that and it blew me away. Perfectly grilled. Tender and flavourful with a wonderful grilled taste on the outside. MMMMmmmm.
I frequently order the spaghettini. Made with wild pacific prawns, scallops, plum tomato sauce, roasted garlic, white wine, and fresh herbs. Unforgettable!! I can still taste it!
For dessert, everything on their menu is wonderful. I have to admit I have tried them all but I think the star in their 'did you make room for something sweet section is......" the berry and white chocolate clafoutis. A french style cake served with vanilla ice cream. To die for!!
So, as you can see I love this place because it does brunch and dinner justice. It does it with impeccable service and high quality ingredients.
It may be a bit more for dinner than average but it is worth every penny. Go for a special occasion or just to have a treat for you and that special someone. -
Review from Bethel L.
Victoria, BC
2/23/2009 ROTD 1/2/2010
Lovely!
It was a gorgeous day this past Saturday - the perfect time to enjoy an outdoor brunch at Provence M. While the portion sizes are smaller than what you might be used to, the dishes are all delicious and prepared with care. The bread basket is pricey ($12), but SO worth it! Starting off with these scrumptious pastries made the whole experience 10 times better! Oh man, I'm craving their chocolate croissant now...drool....
p.s. I asked for their fresh-squeezed orange juice, because a few Yelpers have raved about it, but our waitress wrinkled her forehead, smiled, and told us that they don't serve fresh-squeezed... they serve Tropicana, lol! -
Review from Stanley L.
Pickering, ON
10/19/2010 3 photos
Love the bouillabaisse, one of the best I ever had. Check the photos.
Definitely, I will go back!
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Review from Sarah G.
Vancouver, BC
7/2/2011
This is a great place to go if you want an upscale brunch on a beautiful patio! In the summer there are always big line-ups to get a seat. Nice view of the Marinaside seawall and false creek.
One of my favorites is the shrimp and avocado eggs benedict served on a croissant. They also have good coffee. It's a little expensive, but worth it. I just hope the management stays on top of the service and food, it's been slipping the last few months. -
Review from Szeying t.
6/14/2009
I'm probably gonna be flogged, tarred and made to eat generic gas station food for saying this since it seems like most Yelpers love this place but I wasn't impressed with the brunch we had here. It was just OK. Brunch for two for almost $50 .. I dunno.. it should be more than OK.
That is all. Carry on. -
Review from Rehman A.
Vancouver, BC
1/24/2010 159 Check-ins Here
It may not be fair to review this restaraunt since I live on top of it, but i love it here.
I've been coming here for the last 5 years at least 4 times a week. Brunch, afternoon tea, and many many dinners. The food has been consistant and the staff are wonderfull.
A restaurant that keeps there regulars and staff from leaving is doing something well.
Brunch - Two eggs easy over with grilled veg and smoked salmon.
Lunch - Seafood Linguini or Merguez Panini
Dinner - Ahi Tuna, Halibut, Lamb or Tenderloin
mmmmm -
Review from Raymond O.
Vancouver, BC
10/17/2009 6 photos
C'est si bon! This must be the closest I could get to South of France right smack in downtown Vancouver. The food, the ambiance, the service, the marina view, and the...Smokey Robinson music, uh, err! more on that later... I had my rare - high and happy, buzzed experience here.
Though better known for their awesome brunch, I came here for their $35 Taste of Yaletown offering coupled with a reasonable $20 wine pairing for dinner. Having gone to a few disappointing DOV experiences, I didn't expect much here. In fact, I was ready for sub-par ingredients (read: pork belly or farmed salmon) and tiny portions served by staff who seem perturbed seeing you peruse the prix fixe menu. Not here. Provence served fantastic food paired with awesome service from start to end.
They start you off with Anchovy and Olive tapenade served with crostinis, followed by rosemary foccacia & plain baguette with a side of butter. A complimentary sampling of tuna and cucumber gave a refreshing break before our actual appetizer arrived.
Starting with Wild Mushroom and Mascarpone Tarte as well as an antipasti of Prosciutto Wrapped Bocconcini paired with a slightly sweet white Okanagan wine by Quails' Gate Gewurtzraminer 2008.
For the main entree, we sampled the Rosemary Marinated Lamb Confit with an unforgettable potato gratin on a bed of honey lavender juice. This was mellowed by a spicy, but mellow red wine by Sandhill Syrah 2006.
The Grilled Halibut sat on a bed of perfectly cooked fresh tagliatelle twisting around thinly sliced zucchini ribbons.
For dessert, we chose the Berry and White Chocolate Clafoutis which is a French-style cake which was baked with berries. They did one up and topped it with vanilla ice cream to cut thru the tartness of the fruits and lend even more sweetness.
As if that wasn't enough, the French classic Creme Brulee with Raspberry served in a fist-sized ramekin will make sure you'll have to be carried out since we couldn't walk at this point. But let's not forget the last wine pairing of a foot-stomped dessert wine by Quails' Gate Optima 2007. Very aromatic. Very sweet. Perfect ending for a very hearty meal.
With that I would have said that Provence Marinaside deserves a whopping 5 star rating. But one they did not obtain. Pourquoi? Someone decided to leave a Smokey Robinson CD to play the whole dinner service I was there! I don't want to sound pretentious, but wasn't I supposed to be whisked away to Provence? So unless Detroit, Michigan is in the Southeast region of France, how about some authentic background music.
Perhaps in this dining experience I couldn't have everything, but it's good to know I was able to come close with Provence Marinaside.Listed in: Yelping Yaletown, French Connection
