Vij's Awards

Vij's Restaurant Review:

Vij's new location and larger premises mean shorter lineups (there's a no-reservation policy), and an expanded bar serves tantalizing cocktails and bites. The restaurant’s décor is minimalist and casual with East Indian lanterns that allow the food to take center stage. Ever the gracious host, Vikram Vij offers each guest a glass of chai and appetizers in the lounge before reviewing the seasonal menu he and partner Meeru Dhalwala compose and refresh every three months. When it comes to blending spices, she has the equivalent of a winemaker’s nose, and needs only a whiff from a pot to know whether a dish will tantalize or not. Before dinner, consider sipping a glass of Vij’s refreshing ginger-and-lemon drink, or order Vij's Bolly Water (wine) made for the restaurant at BC's Okanagan Crush Pad. Then begin your meal with mutton kebabs with Bengali-style curry or lamb and beef samosas sautéed in fennel and sumac. Count on an aromatic curry special, such as the signature lamb popsicles in a spicy fenugreek cream sauce, or grilled sablefish in yogurt-tomato broth on navy bean and onion masala. Don't be surprised to see roasted crickets on the menu. Dhalwala has been known to garnish pizza and paratha with the high-in-protein crunchy creatures. Desserts such as mango kulfi and gulab jamun satisfy sweet cravings. One look at the wine list Vij has designed to complement the Indian flavors and you'll know it's the creation of a trained sommelier. A seasonal rooftop patio features a special menu with snacks, salads and rice bowls. Service is friendly and knowledgeable.