Backup plan for Vij's?

[graydyn]

Hello,
Does anybody know a good spot to go if Vij's line is unreasonable? We are thinking of going there during an upcoming trip to Vancouver, but would like to have a backup spot within walking distance if the line is too long.

[NoMoreSnuggles]

Can I ask people in the neighbourhood what time one should arrive to wait for the first seating at Vij's on a Friday? I usually go later in the evening. Any help?

[waylman]

Get there at 5pm and you should be OK.. They open at 5:30.

[clutterer]

It should probably be mentioned that while you're waiting in their little lounge area in the back, Vij's tends to feed you with non-menu snacks, and you're free to order drinks. So it might not be an unpleasant wait.

[NoMoreSnuggles]

Oh, I've been in that lounge (and gotten a little tipsy on cocktails and fried food). We just have a whole night planned so are really hoping to make it into the first seating.

Thanks for the advice!

[LotusRapper]

Not to mention the chance of seeing celebrities/VIPs every now and then !

[eatrustic]

See if the hostess will take your name and number and if you're really lucky get them to call you when your table is almost ready. Then I'd beat it over to West a block and a half away and sit at the bar trying a couple of their fabulous cocktails (one of the best bars -and restaurant- in the city). They also have a new small plates program so you could munch on something while waiting.

That's how I like to travel - the most variety I can squeeze into a day!

[Jzone]

2nd this thoroughly, and it your res. doesn't work for you eating at West isn't the worst thing in the world.

[piwakawaka]

Edible Canada at Granville Island is meant to be pretty good

[lunchslut]

I second Suika if a unique Japanese experience is a appropriate replacement for an Indian one. If you really want Indian food Vij has a far more casual restaurant next door to Vij's called Rangoli. and four blocks away is a Maurya (on Broadway near Fir). Maurya has traditional North Indian food in a nice space and is in the same price range as Vij's.
Siena and Cru which have also been recommended are solid. Siena does not do reservations and can get line ups with the pre-theatre crowd. Cru's main attraction is its wine list.

[LotusRapper]

Cru on Broadway, btwn Granville & Hemlock ?

[el_lobo_solo]

Italian / Mediterranean at Siena http://www.eatsiena.com/

[waylman]

I second siena

[waver]

Well if your tastebuds can adjust their expectations, I like Suika around the corner on Broadway for Japanese. There's also Memphis Blues for bbq, but I've not been and depending where you're from could disappoint.
www.suika-snackbar.com/