Lumiere

[climberdoc]

Do any of the Vancouver Chowhounds know what's going on with Lumiere? I am trying to get a reservation for our anniversary trip at the end of the month, but there has been no answer on their phone for 3-days now. Their website does not say anything about them been closed for anything like that. Thanks in advance from this Southwest Chowhound.

[cdnprairiedog]

I peeked in late last night - the place has been fully gutted, just steel studs in place so far. I think it's a real shame that they felt the need to take a perfectly serviceable space and wastefully go through this renovation exercise.

[shoku_tsu]

Probably done to emphasize how full a break they are making from the old restaurant and remove anything that might even be remotely Feenie related. :)

[grayelf]

I'm officially confused. As I mentioned above and prairiedog confirmed, these two restos are down to the studs. And yet, apparently, you can book a reso through their website on opentable for tonight (!) and I couldn't find any mention of the renos closure. They are also both listed as participating in Sunday's Feast of Fields at UBC. I guess I'll see what gives when we head out to the farm...

[sophie.]

Agreed. Must say that Bistro Moderne is an awful awful name.

[grayelf]

So Lumiere was represented at FoF, and the staff (?) person serving said they are planning a November opening. Their "bite" was much tastier and less twee than its description: Ras el Hanout spiced poached Sapo Bravo peaches with caramelized white chocolate foam and candy corn on a muscavado wafer.

Very intrigued to see what is on offer at the two revamped venues.

[ransom]

Lumiere pastry chef Wendy Boys (arguably the most talented member of that kitchen team before it closed down) came top with that 'bite' at FOF.

Boulud was noticeably impressed with her work when he was in YVR earlier this year.

[Apprentice]

Is Boulud still actively involved in the reincarnation?

[fmed]

I don't know if he's personally involved, but his team certainly is.

[jay_kay]

Its closed. More details can be read on here...

http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/496761

[grayelf]

climber, I walk by the site frequently, and it is often open to peek in. Although there will still be two restos there, I think they will look quite different based on the framing etc. and obviously the food will be something else entirely. I would guess based on the (lack of) progress that there is no chance they will be open before the end of the summer. I'm sure there is more info on the web if you are in a Googling mood. Let us know if you want other recs to replace it for your anniversary dinner, and congratulations.

[climberdoc]

I guess Lumiere is out.

We will only be in Vancouver for a night and are staying at the Fairmont Airport. Has anyone dined at the restaurant there?

[AriaDream]

I went to the Boathouse while I was in Vancouver. It was wonderful, my parents had a great view of the water and the food was terrific. We also went to Salt, that was just as good in a completely different way.