Stéphane Mouttet, Chef Concierge of the Shangri-La Hotel and current director of Les Clefs d'Or, BC region
Stéphane Mouttet is the Chef Concierge of the Shangri-La Hotel and also the director of Les Clefs d’Or, BC region. Having spent his childhood and youth in Grenoble, France, and his adult life in Canada, Stéphane is the perfect embodiment of “old world meets the new world.” While he possesses the easy charm and warmth of North American hospitality, he was trained in the true traditional European sensibilities.
What do you recommend for a visitor who has just one day to sightsee in Vancouver?
Take a quick tour of the city to have a great overview, and explore local neighbourhoods such as Gastown (tourist area with a local vibe), Main Street (hipster) and Commercial Drive (Italian/European).
Or one afternoon?
Granville Island and Stanley Park or Grouse Mountain.
Or one hour?
Take a nice walk down Thurlow Street to the seawall, then follow the seawall to Cordova, and finally walk along Robson Street.
What can a visitor do in Vancouver and nowhere else in the world?
Go skiing and sailing, all on the same day.
How do you respond to a visitor who complains about rain?
It is healthy for you. It is good for your complexion.
Which activities do you recommend for a rainy day?
The Bill Reid Gallery is a wonderful place to visit, and it allows us to know more about our local heritage. The Vancouver Art Gallery is also wonderful, as well as Granville Island and the Vancouver Aquarium. I really recommend local businesses and neighbourhoods that give you a great feel for the city.
As a concierge, what is the oddest request you’ve ever heard?
A bathtub filled with champagne.
Stay, Dine, Do