Vij's

Before our trip to Vancouver, my mom was talking about Vij's, an Indian restaurant that she wanted to try. She read on a blog that there would be a line far before opening at 5:30PM.

The day we got there, we dropped our stuff off at the hotel, picked up some coffee and headed to the restaurant a little before 5 to find ourselves 2nd in line. We were chatting with a local couple saying that it was a little slower than usual because of the Cannucks' playoff game.

The line around 5:15ish. People just kept coming and coming.

Interior.

We were seated right after they promptly opened at 5:30PM.

Cute elephant lights on the wall.

Chickpeas in Star Anise and Date Masala on Grilled Kale.

Jackfruit in Black Cardamom and Cumin Curry.

Never had jackfruit in a dish before, and it was interesting. It had a texture similar to bamboo shoots and artichoke but had no flavor so it sucked in all of the spices.

Garam Masala sauteed Portobello Mushrooms in Porcini Cream Curry.

Wine-marinated Lamb Popsicles in Fenugreek Cream Curry on Tumeric and Spinach Potatoes.

This seems like their signature dish and did not disappoint. The lamb was so tender and full of flavor and went perfectly with the creamy sauce.

After our meal, I looked up the restaurant and found that it was quite famous. The food was delicious (of course), and their all-women kitchen staff uses very unique ingredients and blends of spices. But I think what makes this restaurant so appealing to make people want to wait for hours is their impeccable service. Soon after we sat down, they brought us homemade Chai Tea which was perfect, especially after the cold wait outside. Then while we browsed the menu and waited for our drinks, they brought small Indian hors d'oeuvres to munch on. Throughout our meal, they brought out about 4 or 5 different ones. That little thought makes for such a pleasant dining experience.