How is the Smoking Dog Bistro in Vancouver?

[curiousgeo]

I'm looking for a nice, moderately priced bistro for myself, wife and teenage son to have dinner. I came across the Smoking Dog website and it looks promising. Any thoughts on this restaurant? The Chef and the Carpenter might also work, but I know nothing about its menu, just heard about it in passing. For reference, Cafe de Paris used to be one of our favorite places in Vancouver some years ago. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Celena]

Haven't been to the Cafe de Paris for years, but it used to offer great steak frites. The food at the Smoking Dog used to be pretty good, but my friends and I stopped going there a few years ago because of the terrible service, and because there are better French food options in Vancouver. I agree with Moz, Bistro Pastis is very good, and has a lovely setting. Gramercy food was kind of pre-fab-ish. A great secret is Salade Des Fruits -- a small, very authentic bistro, excellent value for the money, best moules frites in town, but it doesn't have an upscale setting, and you must reserve well in advance, and ask for a table 'inside', not in the foyer. If you're willing to hike over to West Van, La Regalade is, bar none, the best homestyle French food around -- their Beef Bourguignon and mashed potatoes are 'oh my god' good! If you're not tied to having french fare, Feenies is a really happening bistro-style restaurant, with delicious, innovative food, good service, and a very happening atmosphere.

[lucky.goldstar]

I had a good experience at The Smoking Dog last fall - good food, reasonably priced, decent service. I'd go back. I seem to remember having a good steak frites and nice hearty glass of red.

[Moz]

I do like it but its not in the same league as Bistro Pastis or Crocodile. You may like to try those.

[pants]

I didn't like the smoking dog - the food wasn't so hot and way too expensive for what we got - I was disappointed because i had heard so many good things...

[meganw]

I second the vote for Smoking Dog - great food and reasonably priced. Another of our new favourites is the Gramercy Grill on Arbutus at 11th Ave - similar prices to Smoking Dog and outstanding food and impeccable service. Definitely lots of young-adult friendly menu items.

[starlady]

Smoking dog is good. The Coquilles St Jacques is my fave. Also try Jules Bistro, yummy steak frite.