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French food

Hot Dining: Downtown Delights

Colourful dishes at Sala Thai. Photo by KK Law

Vancouver’s cultural diaspora provides an abundance of flavourful options. Wood-trimmed, artifact-laden Sala Thai (pictured) obliges with an extensive menu selection, from flower-shaped minced chicken and peanut-filled dumplings to peppery Tom Yum soup and a sweet-and-sour seafood platter. Nearby, Le Crocodile is a long-running, highly acclaimed French Alsatian stalwart where chef Michel Jacob blends classic and contemporary themes. All things Italian take centre stage—including the occasional live aria—at neighbouring Don Francesco, which also happens to sport one of the city’s best wild-game menus.—Tim Pawsey

Hot Dining: Suite Success

The fanciful room at The Corner Suite Bistro De Luxe. Photo by KK Law

Just off Robson, smart and sassy Corner Suite Bistro De Luxe lives up to its name with vibrant, Tiffany-blue, Louis XV-style armchairs; sexy, black, soft leather banquettes; and a bustling bar that boasts a gleaming, stainless steel Venus Century espresso machine. On the menu: variations on French classics, from Croque Madame with truffled chips to 48-hour cassoulet and a hefty fireman-size burger, in honour of Station 7 across the street. Upping the buzz in the room is The Genuine Article, an exhaustively researched cocktail list with contributions from several star shakers.—Tim Pawsey