We are a small neighbourhood restaurant located in the heart of lively Commercial Drive in Vancouver. Absinthe blends classic and modern french cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. Absinthe Bistro is an owned and operated family business based on the idea of bringing fresh and flavourful French food to Vancouver.
Cory attended the Culinary School Paul Bocuse. Two years later he moved to Paris where Cory had the opportunity to work for Chef Michel Rostang. After living in France for over 6 years, Cory returned to his natal Vancouver to pursue his dream of opening a restaurant.
Cory attended the Culinary School Paul Bocuse. Two years later he moved to Paris where Cory had the opportunity to work for Chef Michel Rostang. After living in France for over 6 years, Cory returned to his natal Vancouver to pursue his dream of opening a restaurant.
Reviews (25)
Kyle C.
Dec 31, 2021
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A little hard on the wallet, but oh wow was I impressed! The salmon/tuna tartare and the duck breast were both elegantly plated and packed a punch with amazing but pure flavors.
Keeping mindful -- the portion sizes are not fantastic. However, they do provide bread (+ flavored butter to-die for) and a side of fries with the duck, so I was able to be satisfied. Definitely one of the better meals I've had, and a really good place for dates!
Keeping mindful -- the portion sizes are not fantastic. However, they do provide bread (+ flavored butter to-die for) and a side of fries with the duck, so I was able to be satisfied. Definitely one of the better meals I've had, and a really good place for dates!
Steven Choy
Dec 17, 2021
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L. E.
Dec 16, 2021
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Folks, perhaps my palate is just too simple for the culinary sophistication that is Absinthe, maybe I want to walk away feeling satiated after spending $55+ for a three course meal plus a drink, or possibly, I simply don't "get it".
But what's the fuss about?
Five tablespoons worth of a barely-warmed pureed mushroom soup (weird grainy texture), three chunks of pork in a sugary Asian-esque "gravy" with ice cold pickled....er....noodle thingies?
The espresso was good. This, I'll concede.
But for the price tag and the flavors? I recommend checking out some alternative "finer dining" in the area
But what's the fuss about?
Five tablespoons worth of a barely-warmed pureed mushroom soup (weird grainy texture), three chunks of pork in a sugary Asian-esque "gravy" with ice cold pickled....er....noodle thingies?
The espresso was good. This, I'll concede.
But for the price tag and the flavors? I recommend checking out some alternative "finer dining" in the area
Winnie L.
Dec 08, 2021
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Hayley Mah
Oct 30, 2021
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Was actually let down a bit after seeing so many great reviews. My tuna starter was bland and didn’t really taste of anything but a slight hint of horseradish. The lamb shank was my highlight of the meal but it sat on a bed of overly sweet caramelized onions that were basically mush. Nothing wrong with the lava cake but personally I wish it didn’t have the crumble as I’d be taking a nice smooth bite and then my teeth crunch down on what feels like sand. Maybe I expected too much? The conciliation however was that they didn’t charge me for my starter (I took like 2 bites and said nope) and
Kevin Ao
Oct 02, 2021
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Gina Chang
Aug 23, 2021
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Delightful plating, delicious food, wonderful service, reasonable price. The apricot and chive butter was so amazing that we asked for more bread and ended up eating way too much for the night. Scallops & prawns were fresh and the sea bass was very juicy. We especially loved the thoughts they put into the colours of the food & plates - a feast to the eyes in itself. Would definitely come back!
Sonya Tremblay
Jul 17, 2021
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Maddy J.
May 08, 2021
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Keith C.
Feb 17, 2021
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Every plate I had this night was simply delicious. From appetizer right through to dessert. Scallops cooked perfectly, and the pork cheeks leaves a taste in your mouth that you keep remembering. The host, and I believe owner, is very friendly and kind to explain things through dinner. I highly recommend. You really need to try to understand what I mean.
Erickson Yan
Oct 08, 2020
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So I’ve been here before and they definitely left an impression the last few times. This time with a new location not to far from the original, it continues to amaze!
Pros:
- owners husband and wife serving and greeting. Not a lot of places can say that
- ordered all their main dishes cause it looked good and my god it was
- the washrooms showcased their hard work during the new location renovations by the owners. A great touch
Cons:
- decor was unique, it could be better for a more romantic experience. But seriously this all I can say bad about this place, cause everything else was perfect
Pros:
- owners husband and wife serving and greeting. Not a lot of places can say that
- ordered all their main dishes cause it looked good and my god it was
- the washrooms showcased their hard work during the new location renovations by the owners. A great touch
Cons:
- decor was unique, it could be better for a more romantic experience. But seriously this all I can say bad about this place, cause everything else was perfect
Mon T.
Aug 09, 2020
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This is easily one of the best French restaurant in town!
It's located on Commercial Drive, a humble unpretentious spot, high ceiling, quite bright and airy, and all tables are spaced far enough to maintain social distancing.
I ordered fried frog legs as starter, duck confit and foie gras ravioli as entree, and creme brûlée for dessert. The fried frog legs are juicy, flavorful and tender, meat texture is similar to chicken wings. Fried capers added a nice saltiness, parsley purée gives an herby freshness to the entire dish, Dijon mustard cream gels everything together perfectly.
The
It's located on Commercial Drive, a humble unpretentious spot, high ceiling, quite bright and airy, and all tables are spaced far enough to maintain social distancing.
I ordered fried frog legs as starter, duck confit and foie gras ravioli as entree, and creme brûlée for dessert. The fried frog legs are juicy, flavorful and tender, meat texture is similar to chicken wings. Fried capers added a nice saltiness, parsley purée gives an herby freshness to the entire dish, Dijon mustard cream gels everything together perfectly.
The
Amy C.
Aug 06, 2020
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WOW!! Hands down one of my favourite restaurants that I've tried over the last couple of months.
We started out with some Saint Germain drinks which were fun, tasty, and refreshing. They also had some really cool absinthe drinks and cocktails (hence the name, duhh) but we wanted to take it easy for now.
Their menus are prix fixed, but I love that they have the option of a 2 course meal (app and entree or entree and dessert) or the traditional 3 course, as I'm not a huge fan of dessert.
By far by far their fried frog legs were the star of the night!! Juicy, crispy, and tasty YUM!!
We started out with some Saint Germain drinks which were fun, tasty, and refreshing. They also had some really cool absinthe drinks and cocktails (hence the name, duhh) but we wanted to take it easy for now.
Their menus are prix fixed, but I love that they have the option of a 2 course meal (app and entree or entree and dessert) or the traditional 3 course, as I'm not a huge fan of dessert.
By far by far their fried frog legs were the star of the night!! Juicy, crispy, and tasty YUM!!
Alina Bychkova
Jun 24, 2020
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The food tasted great, the kitchen staff were very quick to bring it out and were very attentive. The reason we won't be going back is that I wish I could say the same about our server. We didn't see him much for during meal, except when it was time for our bill! My partner needed a few minutes to decide on his drink, but after he brought me my beer he never came back to take his drink order, nor did he offer me another drink or ask us if we were doing ok even once during the entire meal. We could see him chatting away to other tables and it wasn't too busy, so we definitely left feeling neglected
Jason F.
May 02, 2020
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Pete M.
Apr 27, 2020
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My wife and I have loved eating here for the last few years. The food is marvellous, as good as Bishops at its best! Juliana looks after everybody as if each person is a special friend, Cory is an incredible cook.
We have worried about how they both would cope with the restaurant closure during the Covid 19 epidemic, but today we ordered the set-menu as a take-out and it was magical. I suppose not quite as good as eating in the restaurant but still a very lovely evening meal.
If you want really lovely French food in Vancouver Absinthe Bistro is the place to go.!
We have worried about how they both would cope with the restaurant closure during the Covid 19 epidemic, but today we ordered the set-menu as a take-out and it was magical. I suppose not quite as good as eating in the restaurant but still a very lovely evening meal.
If you want really lovely French food in Vancouver Absinthe Bistro is the place to go.!
Alexis W.
Nov 06, 2019
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Marcia D.
Sep 27, 2019
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My husband and I ate at Absinthe last night for my birthday dinner and it was one of the best meals I have ever eaten, That is saying a lot as I am a 67 year old (as of yesterday) retired chef from California and have done some great dining there and in other spots in the world.
From the minute we entered the hospitality was evident. We were warmly greeted and seated. We decided to start our meal with the Absinthe experience and ordered a couple of ounces of a good Absinthe and the waitress brought out the fountain and spoons and we were on our way.
My starter was the octopus and artichoke salad
From the minute we entered the hospitality was evident. We were warmly greeted and seated. We decided to start our meal with the Absinthe experience and ordered a couple of ounces of a good Absinthe and the waitress brought out the fountain and spoons and we were on our way.
My starter was the octopus and artichoke salad
Sun G.
Aug 24, 2019
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3/5 food 5/5 service 1/5 value 3/5 ambiance
Wikipedia:
Absinthe is historically described as a distilled, highly alcoholic beverage (45-74% ABV / 90-148 U.S. proof ). It is an anise-flavoured spirit derived from ...
Alcohol by volume: 45-74%
Proof (US): 90-148
Ingredients: Wormwood; Anise; Fennel
Colour: Green
---/-//--///////---------
Not sure why the restaurant is named after a drink or is it someone's surname? Forget to ask our server.
This is one of the priciest eateries on the Drive. In some ways a misfit. I'd expect it to be near Granville Island or in upscale neighbourhoods
Wikipedia:
Absinthe is historically described as a distilled, highly alcoholic beverage (45-74% ABV / 90-148 U.S. proof ). It is an anise-flavoured spirit derived from ...
Alcohol by volume: 45-74%
Proof (US): 90-148
Ingredients: Wormwood; Anise; Fennel
Colour: Green
---/-//--///////---------
Not sure why the restaurant is named after a drink or is it someone's surname? Forget to ask our server.
This is one of the priciest eateries on the Drive. In some ways a misfit. I'd expect it to be near Granville Island or in upscale neighbourhoods
Mel Chan
Jun 23, 2019
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A fantastic and romantic place. It lives up to expectations. It is owned and operated by a lovely couple. They completely accommodated my husband’s intensive food allergy list without hesitation or grief. They are just wonderful people with a real passion for food. On top of the great hospitality, the food is amazing! It’s so cool that they change up their menu weekly which means their food is always evolving and fresh. Ready to be dazzled! I highly recommend this place.
Stephanie L.
Apr 14, 2019
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Such a gem on the drive! We've lived here for a few years and never went to this restaurant until it was recommended. It's a small, intimate place but you can really feel the love and care that they put into it as soon as you walk in. We were warmly greeted at the door and had the same service throughout.
I really love the menu as you can choose a 2 course or 3 meal. And reasonable price too. My husband got a appie and a main and I got a main and a dessert. Both meals were so delicious! My husbands liver starter was a little to hearty for me tho. He got a trout which was wonderful and
I really love the menu as you can choose a 2 course or 3 meal. And reasonable price too. My husband got a appie and a main and I got a main and a dessert. Both meals were so delicious! My husbands liver starter was a little to hearty for me tho. He got a trout which was wonderful and
Priscilla H.
Jan 12, 2019
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This is a place where you're reaffirmed that you knew it all along: Vancouver is underrated for its food scene. It's also where you one-handedly pull duck confit or lamb shank tenderly off the bone just with your fork to see how far you can go before needing a knife to devour every last molecule of it. Each dish has been so tenderly seeped in its own juices and accompanying flavours that you won't need your knife, save for picking at the minuscule melt-in-your-mouth morsels of meat left on an otherwise naked bone. From the minute you walk inside, to when you're warmly welcomed
Helen K.
Aug 09, 2018
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This place is super cute! Good food, love the staff; wonderful people who actually care about the customers and enjoy what they do. The menu seems to change regularly which is a nice surprise
The only thing I didn't like was that we were seated in the patio on the busy street of commercial so we would often be smelling cigarette smoke but that isn't the resto's fault, however they did say they would try and move us inside once a table cleared but they seated other people instead. They were really busy though so it was understandable.
Would definitely come back to this place to
The only thing I didn't like was that we were seated in the patio on the busy street of commercial so we would often be smelling cigarette smoke but that isn't the resto's fault, however they did say they would try and move us inside once a table cleared but they seated other people instead. They were really busy though so it was understandable.
Would definitely come back to this place to
Alice L.
Feb 11, 2018
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This is one of my absolute favorite restaurant. It's family owned and the owners - Corey and Juli are simply awesome! We have become close friends and I have never been disappointed each time I'm here.
Been here soooo many times and each time gets excited about the menu. Tonight I started with the 1. Amazing Kir Royale, followed by
2. Potato Onion Cream Soup,
3. Sous Vide Filet Mignon Medium Rare and of course ended with ...
4. Café Al Alicé + Crémé Brûlée.
Not only the food amazing, service, presentation, all above and beyond and most importantly you will feel the warmth of
Been here soooo many times and each time gets excited about the menu. Tonight I started with the 1. Amazing Kir Royale, followed by
2. Potato Onion Cream Soup,
3. Sous Vide Filet Mignon Medium Rare and of course ended with ...
4. Café Al Alicé + Crémé Brûlée.
Not only the food amazing, service, presentation, all above and beyond and most importantly you will feel the warmth of
Sukh R.
Feb 01, 2018
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Wow! Amazing!
I think this is the best meal I have had out in a awhile. All three courses were fantastic and I'm really glad a friend suggested we go here.
We decided to order one appie, 2 mains, and one dessert which came out to be around 40 ea.
The appie we ordered was Salmon Carpaccio. We both got the Filet Mignon which was melt in your mouth fantastic! Lastly we had the Classic French Vanilla Creme Brulee which was a little shallow but it tasted like perfection. I enjoyed every single course and even the bread given to start you off. Someone seated next to us ordered the Butter
I think this is the best meal I have had out in a awhile. All three courses were fantastic and I'm really glad a friend suggested we go here.
We decided to order one appie, 2 mains, and one dessert which came out to be around 40 ea.
The appie we ordered was Salmon Carpaccio. We both got the Filet Mignon which was melt in your mouth fantastic! Lastly we had the Classic French Vanilla Creme Brulee which was a little shallow but it tasted like perfection. I enjoyed every single course and even the bread given to start you off. Someone seated next to us ordered the Butter
