Innovative East meets West fusion.

117 W. Pender St., Vancouver, BC    [View Map]
604-642-2882
  $$

One of the most remarkable facets of our city is the way that many diverse ethnic cultures happily co-exist in close quarters, and then fuse and combine in exciting and novel ways.

Wild Rice is one of the best examples of "East Meets West" and really typifies the energy of Vancouver's young, but sophisticated, culture-seeking generation. Take ingredients and traditions from China, transform them with modern West-coast cooking techniques, and situate this delightful fusion of flavours in a room designed and conceptualized from the ground up by visual artist Terri Storey.

The effect of all this is simply mesmerizing. Be prepared to taste culinary creations that will surprise you with their innovative use of ingredients, but this is an innovation that is clearly done with careful purpose, to make your dining adventure a rewarding one.

Pictured above is the dish "Chinatown Sweep" ($14) which is described as
"four spice blend dusted BBQ pork, with East-West stir fry on fresh chow mein". Also pictured below are the "deep fried crispy wontons" which were arranged artfully on the plate and over a base of a sweet fruit reduction and fresh herbs. One of my favorite appetizers (not pictured) is the "Saute of Tied Long Beans and Capsicum" ($5) with chilies and sesame almond brittle - the beans were the longest I have ever seen and were sauteed to just the right tenderness.

The ambience of this restaurant is set with the muffled but ever present beat of a subwoofer, the rhythm reminding us of the urban life that continues on around us - but inside Wild Rice, time is for a moment suspended, as we enjoy what has been described for three years in a row as the "most innovative menu" in Vancouver by the Georgia Straight. This restaurant really speaks to what Vancouver is about - an openness to new cultures, recipes, and friends. I'd definitely recommend Wild Rice to visitors who want an experience of East/West fusion that only Vancouver can offer.

	Crispy wontons appetizer
	A view of Wild Rice's bar from the second floor landing. The space was designed and conceptualized from the ground up by visual artist Terri Storey.

Reviewed by: Geoff Peters

Last reviewed: Feb. 25, 2005

To avoid disappointment, please phone the restaurant/food establishment to make sure they are open, before visiting. Business hours and prices may change without notice.

Please read our disclaimer for important information about using this site. Although we try our best to give accurate reviews of restaurants/food establishments, our reviews are solely the opinion of the reviewers, and we cannot guarantee that the restaurant/food establishment will provide proper service. Food Vancouver or its reviewers will not be held liable if a restaurant/food establishment does not provide proper service.