Vancouver Canucks  Bar and Grill
at Vancouver Airport US Departures

With a mid-morning flight to the US, as always I got myself to Vancouver International Airport with lots of time spare before boarding. Not wanting to succumb to the awful snack choices on board, I usually treat myself to a light meal at one of the restaurants. My favorite is Vino Volo, although I go for the appetizer plates rather than the nice wine selection but today I really wanted a breakfast omelette.

I asked the helpful server if there was anywhere serving a decent omelette in this section of the airport and she mentioned that a new restaurant had opened yesterday, a little further towards my boarding gate, although she did not know what type of menu they were offering. Deciding to check it out, I wandered along to see the Vancouver Canucks Bar and Grill. This was in fact the new restaurant and in the breakfast part of their menu was exactly what I wanted - a bacon and cheese omelette.

There was an initially rocky moment when they told me they could not seat me for 20 minutes (despite the fact that most of the tables were unoccupied) because they did not want to "put stress" on the new kitchen staff. I pointed out that they did not have to take my order immediately but I would like to be seated at a table where I could work while I waited. That seemed to make sense to everyone and my server Leslie who was pleasant and attentive, actually took my order soon after seating me  though I was quite prepared to wait for a bit.

The Canadian Back bacon and Cheese omelette made with three eggs, shredded cheese and served with breakfast potatoes and choice of toast,  was just what I wanted. Couldn't resist eating one of the pieces of toast, which was freshly toasted and lightly buttered, not like the dry stack of previously toasted bread that one often gets. Also tasted a couple of the potatoes which were also perfectly done. If they keep up the standard of opening week, this will be a nice addition to the casual dining choices at YVR.

As well as their breakfast menu they have starter sharing plates, soups, salads and other entrees.

I chatted briefly to one of the managers from HMSHost, who operate food and beverage  outlets in more than 100 restaurants around the world, including in the recently completed C terminal expansion at the Orange County John Wayne Airport. He was up from California to help with the launch of this Canucks themed-restaurant.  He reminded me of the similarly themed Anaheim Ducks Breakaway Bar and Grill newly opened at John Wayne.  Something to check out on my next return flight from the OC.