The Calabash Bistro: Caribbean Food, Art and Music

If you fancy Jamaican jerk and curried food, you’ll enjoy dining at the Calabash Bistro in Vancouver’s downtown east side located near Gastown (map).  Named for the calabash, a tropical evergreen tree that bears fruit in the form of large woody gourds, this little restaurant transforms, from the dining area upstairs that offers an exotic Caribbean menu to the gallery space in the downstairs lounge where you can enjoy art, music, food and drink.

My friend and I stopped in for a quick meal before taking in a movie around the corner at Tinseltown (map).  The bistro has only been open since last summer but judging from the busy kitchen and crowded tables, it has already become a popular downtown venue.  We were warmly greeted by Sam, one of the owners, who took me on a mini tour downstairs.

The gallery is a showcase for local artists and the European-style cafe vibe creates a relaxing energy where you will feel inspired.  The lounge hosts Foundation Radio, an online radio station that plays roots, reggae, jazz, blues, motown and funk.  There’s a DJ spinning tunes all day and night keeping the Island sound that greets you when you enter the bistro.  The bistro also hosts live music, spoken word and poetry readings and the gallery is a showcase for local artists.

Our gracious Jamaican server suggested the day’s specials from the menu.  Her recommendations proved to be a perfect choice.  We decided to share various Salivators (appetizers): fried coconut dumplings ($4) and chicken jerk skewers ($4),  plus salad and main course.  The avocado and Mango salad served on mixed greens with spiced choka-sea salt and fresh lime tantalized our taste buds ($11).  The  crab patties served on a bed of fresh greens with rice complimented the other dishes.($12)

The Caribbean cuisine is served in a relaxed authentic atmosphere, the ambiance enhanced by the lilting sound of reggae music, in keeping with the bistro’s motto: “The calabash is a vessel that supports food, drink, art and music.”

The three owners have their roots in the restaurant business and through their common interest in music, literature, culture and cuisine, the Calabash was created. Sam Willcocks was one of the original founders of the award winning Cassis Bistro and manager of Vancouver’s Cafe Deux Soleil and Reef restaurants.  Roger Collins has traveled the world making global music connections that resulted in the creation of Foundation radio.  He is also well-seasoned in the restaurant industry around the globe.  Chef Cullin David has been executive Sous chef of Provence Marinaside for many years and began working in the industry as a cook when he was a teen.

Sam, Roger and Cullin have created not only an excellent place to dine, but an exciting, vibrant place to hang out. So bring yourself down to the Calabash Bistro and experience not only its culinary delights, but enjoy the friendly ambience and artistic atmosphere.

Calabash Bistro - 428 Carrall Street, just off Hastings Street (map)

Open Sunday – Thursday 5 pm until late.  Friday and Saturday 5 pm until 2 am

Full menu served until closing.  Check out their menu online.

Photo by W. Ruth Kozak