Went there for my daughter's graduation from UBC celebration. Everyone had a fantastic meal and the service was great.

The best. Ever. The owners are so beatific and sweet. They remember all of our names, even though we only come in once a year or so. The food is always spectacular. Love love love.

The pate en croute and duck confit was fantastic. Lava cake was a must have. Great service- attentive staff, we were seated quickly and food was on time

This is one restaurant that is worth the hype. Stellar service and absolutely spot on food at a great price point. Unpretentious and delicious the way french food should be. I'm french and this meal was better than a lot of dining experiences I have had in both Paris and Lyon. We had a couple good cocktails followed by the pâté en croute (which I have never found in Canada); the duck which was... more

Let's get this out of the way: the food is excellent. Like, really really good. But the service I experienced was terrible. I made a reservation, but still had to wait a half hour for my table. The service was really slow, considering the size of the place, and we were told more than once to "just wait" to place our food order, get for more water, get the bill, etc. We waited particularly long... more

My wife and I had our anniversary dinner there and it was really wonderful. The service was excellent and the value for the price I thought was great. Plus, it was great to be able to walk home after a meal and wine. The corkage fee is high, but other than that I thought it was a near perfect experience.

so delicious!!!! we went there for my brother's birthday dinner, and i'm so glad we did! the food was amazing and very reasonably priced. it's a prix fixe menu with a few choices, so if you're looking for a large menu, this is not your place. but the food is exceptional and for $35, you get 3 courses! it also helps that the service was impeccable. highly recommend this bistro! oh, it's pretty... more

We came to try Absinthe strictly based on it's status as Vancouver's highest rated eatery. We came away absolutely convinced that it's lofty status is richly deserved! It's a tiny space, 10 tables inside, 2 out, with 3 chefs & 2 waiters turning out exquisite dishes for adoring diners for the insanely cheap price of $C 35 for the three course prix fixe. Awesome!

Every dish we ordered was... more

The pan seared scallops were the best I've ever had, and my boyfriend said the same about his lamb shank. The only slight disappointment was the pâté en croute, which I found a bit bland.

Amazing. Had the shrimp gazpacchio, seared scallops then lava cake for dessert. Also had the green tree absinthe to drink. Others at my table ado raved about their respective meals.
Honestly do not have a single complaint. A must go.

Finally had the chance to check out Absinthe Bistro after months of walking by and being tantalized by the aromas coming from this restaurant. We made reservations for the early seating and were glad we did as others who didn't weren't able to get a seat. The atmosphere is lovely although the room is small and can be a bit loud, also the open kitchen means that it can get a bit stuffy. We... more

One of the best restaurants I've ever been in period. The scallops are to die for!!! The owners are very kind and the service is personable and outstanding. This shows that a restaurant can have spectacular food without being pretentious or way too expensive. Even though the portions may not seem big enough, you will be full! The quality is excellent you can taste it. Everything I tried was... more

This is my very first experience going to a French restaurant. I don't know why it took me this long to go! The restaurant is small and open concept with the kitchen. A simple decor but an intimate feeling with the lighting. The staff is welcoming and friendly as soon as you walk through the door. Attention to detail was also spot on. Water and bread was always being refilled. The bathroom was... more

Attempted to place a reservation through their website a couple of months ago. Vacation is now a week away. Called to confirm reservation. They couldn't find our reservation. Lady on the phone kindly told me if I could find our email confirming our reservation, then to call back. Then she hung up on me. She did not close the phone call with a good bye, nor wait for me to close the phone call.... more

I absolutely adore this place. My boyfriend and I tried it out over the weekend for his birthday and this is our new favourite restaurant. We left with nothing bad to say about it. The food was fine-dining quality without the over-the-top downtown pricing, cozy atmosphere and awesome service. The owners even took their time to visit our table and have a few quick words with us! Highly recommend... more

Intimate, professional, tasty, cordial and appetizing. The owners and the staff are so friendly you will want to enjoy the food just to show your appreciation. The cost for the meal you will enjoy is about half of what you should really be paying - we tipped generously. I don't like French food but I like this place and if you're a foodie then this is a place to put on the bucket list.

My wife and I are so glad to have found this great little French restaurant on the drive.
We had heard really good things and we had tried to get reservations a few times before we actually made it here for dinner. The place is quite small, I believe they only do two settings of twenty two covers each night. So glad that we persisted and got lucky with a reservation on a Sunday night. The place... more

We thoroughly enjoyed our evening at this wonderful little Bistro on "the drive". The food is wonderfully prepared and the service is anything but pretentious. Excellent value and we will definitely be putting this in our must return to restaurants. Limited menu so make sure you check the menu to make sure there is something you like and definitely make a reservation. Very small restaurant.

Such a great spot! So glad we made the cab ride from downtown to visit this place. The service was incredible and the food spectacular. Best creme brûlée we've had in a long time! It is a smaller restaurant so try to make reservations ahead of time if possible (we did via email and they responded very quickly)

This place is amazing! My bf brought me here for my birthday dinner and it didn't disappoint. The duck pate and glazed tuna salad were delicious. The show stopper was definitely the scallops. Don't know what was in the sauce but it was so good I could have drank it. The parsnip purée with the lamp was very unique and delicious. The lava cake was made with a dark bitter chocolate and I loved how... more

My colleague recommended this place. I should say I love the food , we tried the $35 for 3 course meal. The duck was really good. My hubby and kids ordered the absinthe drink , interesting for them.
The owner was really nice, she came by the table to ask how things are. I look forward to our next visit with new menu.

We are from Portland, Oregon and have been wanting to try this place for a long time. We must say it was very good! The servers were very nice and we loved the atmosphere. Make sure to make your reservations in advance because they fill up pretty fast.

Yummy and delicious

This place is out of the way -- tucked into an artsy district (across from the park), but a great place to sit and watch. They have a prix-fix menu (2 or 3 meal choice, entree, main, and/or dessert). The food we had was absolutely exquisite. I can see why it's been around for as long as it has. I... more

My birthday treat

My girlfriend had booked the 1, 2 and 3 Trip Advisor restaurants for our week in Vancouver. As this was the one for my birthday it must be special. In most ways it was. Strangely we turned up 10 minutes before our booked time and were advised to return later. They turn the tables at least twice during the evening.... more

Authentic French but quaintly underwhelming

After the glowing reviews on trip advisor, we expected an excellent dinner, especially since the menu was so small, with thee choices of appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The pate was excellent as was the gazpacho with prawns. The scallop entree was fine, nothing special, the lamb shank was very good. Desserts were fine, again nothing special. It was a Sunday... more

Excellent Little French Place in Vancouver

It took us a while to go to this place as the location is in an area that doesn't rhyme with fine dining. Amazing little French restaurant crewed by an enthusiastic and deservedly so proud team. Didn't feel like Absinthe so got the Pastis on a summer evening. Limited menu so go there to taste the menu le chef proposes.... more

One Of My New Favourites

This place is amazing! It is quaint and authentic, not pretentious at all. We took our parents there for dinner and they loved it.
I love the simple price fixe menu that gives you three choices of each course. You have the choice of doing either two or three courses at $28 or $35 respectively. You can also choose which... more

great dinner

I had planned to take a friend out for dinner and she had selected a couple of other restaurants, none of which worked out. I selected Absinthe relatively last minute, based on reviews. We loved it. The food was delicious, and the kitchen was open so we could watch our food being prepared. We had gazpacho, scallops, duck, creme brulee... more

A piece of Avignon in Vancouver

The duck breast was very well prepared, the only other time when we had something as good was in Avignon. The quality of the preparation unrivalled. We appreciated the service personnel - lot's of information when you needed it and then not noticeable until you need them again! We will for sure return.

An outstanding experience

Without a doubt, this is one of the best restaurants we have ever experienced. The food is absolutely delicious, well prepared, and all the ingredients are well partnered. But the owners and the entire staff make this a most pleasurable experience. We went there for our 60th anniversary, and this dinner made it memorable. The scallops, the lamb shank, crème... more

Vancouver Gem

The place is great. Its a small "hole in the wall" bistro that delivers big flavors. The staff was extra friendly and attentive. They have a seasonal menu with three options from each course to choose from. It is reasonably priced and we would definitely go again.

Neighborhood Gem on the Drive

Very small chef owned restaurant. The service is excellent as well as the food. Given the location, you don't need to dress up, but you can if you like. I ordered the lamb shank-excellent red wine sauce, very tender. My companion had the scallops which were cooked to perfection. Lava cake for dessert-quite fabulous! The gazpacho had good flavor but... more

Simple and Small is Beautiful

Absinthe Bistro is located on The Drive (Commercial St) just across a beautiful park with views of the city. The dining room is in proportion with the menu, both being small, but optimized to a high state of purity. The menu itself strikes by its simplicity. There are only 3 items in every category (appies, mains, desserts) and a fix... more

Great little bistro

The couple who own and operate this bistro have done a wonderful job. Very reminiscent of what you'd find in France, with some welcome twists on the dishes.

Small Space but Big on Taste

After having two spectacular dinners in Vancouver (the top seafood and the top Italian), we decided to leave the confines of the Yaletown area and try something different. After reading Trip Advisor and lucking out in Toronto with a highly reviewed small family owned cafe, I thought let's try another "different" eatery - small and again family owned. Yes this... more

Even better than promised

It was a bit of a trip from downtown Vancouver, but it was totally worth it. This is a small place with a limited menu. Trust them - whatever you select will be different, and better, than you've had it before. The chocolate lava cake too - fabulous.

Definitely, definitely visit this restaurant

So glad that we followed the advice on here and booked into this restaurant for the final night of our holiday in Vancouver. The food was excellent - the scallops were the best we've ever had, cooked to perfection. The duck was absolutely delicious - the whole thing was eaten with a big smile and constant 'wow'ing. The lava cake... more

Good, but

Small, strong menu - very few tables. Friendly and helpful service. Chef brings dishes to table - nice touch. Food was good, simple french food. Deserts were excellent.
...doesn't justify billing as #1 restaurant in Vancouver. Perhaps my expectations were a bit too high.

local with a french twist and attention to detail

this tiny bistro reminds one of European eateries. It has a limited menu (fresh and rotating) but delicious and carefully prepared food - from local farms. The attention to detail results in a very pleasing meal and perfect timing of courses. I would recommend this restaurant for a special night out. That said, it is not expensive considering the quality... more

The cultural variety just keeps getting better out here at the Drive and there is almost nothing better than soaking in the sun and enjoying some fine wines at a quaint French restaurant.

The couple's story (owners) of how they met just adds to the passion of this small restaurant and that passion is translated into their deliciously chosen menu selection.

Our night started off with an owner... more

Great experience

The food is outstanding, service wonderful and attentive and atmosphere simply charming. Great experience

Our new favorite restaurant!! Such flavours! Personal touch

After reading all the reviews we planned dinner at Absinthe Bistro on our latest trip into Vancouver. We have found our new favorite restaurant!! Superb flavors & presentation (the menu isn't finalized until 1 PM as they shop for fresh ingredients each day). Lick the plate sauces. We shared prawn appetizer, then husband had scallops main & creme brulee while... more

We had a perfect anniversary dinner here. The menu is small, and everything is fresh and cooked to perfection. We thought that $35 for 3 courses was a steal. From the perfect sear on the scallops, to the crisp skin of the duck leg, there is some terrific talent in the kitchen. And the wait staff was friendly and fun. Great place!

As a side note, the owners of a very good and very popular resto... more

A friend and b/f wanted the wife and me to join them for a dinner, and they had made reservations here. Had never been, had never heard of it... so was going in with a pretty open mind....

Reservations are pretty important... I like that they had a sign out front letting people walking in from the street know when the next available seating was (we had a reservation for 6:30pm, and the next... more

Parisien pefection

Like going to Paris without the airfare!! Tiny spot on the Drive. Incredible quality and taste. I had terrine, scallops and creme brulee. They were all superb. This is the best french food i have ever eaten outside of France and better than most meals inside France. Best to reserve and expect to be spoiled by taste. Open kitchen. lets... more

A real gem

Situated across the street from Grandview Park, this lovely little gem of a restaurant is an absolute must when in Vancouver.
The food is delicious and the presentation beautiful. Even with just a few offerings each day, the variety and imagination on the menu is noteworthy.
The service is charming - this is a "serious" food, but warm and engaging... more

So good you must go

Oh my gosh, I can't praise this restaurant highly enough! Out of curiosity we had looked up TA to find out which were the top restaurants in Vancouver and this was at the top of the list! Keen to try it ourselves we were lucky enough to secure a booking.
Although it has limited seating it has a lovely atmosphere... more

Waow

A preference for French food is growing on my part, stimulated by an excellent French restaurant in Aberdeen who's name escapes me, and the wonderful Michel's maison (or something-blame middle age) in Victoria.
So with this one, I literally searched TA for French cuisine and took a punt based on what I had read. Couldn't reserve from the UK so... more

I've lived on the Drive for almost 3 years and have walked by countless times until tonight. I don't know how I didn't know this place existed! We instantly felt like we were back on the streets of Paris... We did the three course set menu and it was amazing!! This place is now my favorite place on the Drive... and the scallops are my favorite meal on the Drive! We'll be back again!

This place is incredible

The food is outstanding, service wonderful and attentive and atmosphere simply charming. Best restaurant in Vancouver? Yes.

Delightful experience in all respects

We made a reservation at this restaurant for our wedding anniversary because of the reviews on Trip Advisor. We wanted a special experience and were not disappointed! Our evening was totally memorable in all respects, from the delicious food, the presentation, the ambience, and the gracious hosts. It was similar to dining at small bistros in Lyon, France. The scallops... more

I felt as if I were in Paris

I could write a long rambling review extolling the many many positives of this amazing little bistro. Suffice to say that in every category it rates an excellent.
Juliana, the chef's wife (they are the owners) is a delight. The charming decor had me back in Paris. The food, the reason for which we dine, is amazing. The menu is... more

a real gem not to be missed

six of us went to celebrate 2 birthdays. we simply had to try it because of excellent reviews. and it did not disappoint. in fact, every one of us thought it was simply wonderful.we tasted or shared most things. the salmon tartar was very good as was the carrot soup.all the entrees were delicious- the halibut, pan-seared scallops, and the... more

Visited last night with our group of 8 - attentive service and excellent food!! Will return and recommend to friends.

Absolutely superior Scallops. !!!
Such a pleasure! The mushroom soup starter was also a delight.
What a treat!!

Absolutely mouth watering

We were looking forward to this restaurant after reading some of the reviews and we were not disappointed. The mushroom soup and Tuna tartar were extremely delicious! The scallops were perfectly done and the buerre blanc was excellent! Accompanied by mashed potatoes that were perfectly seasoned, we were both shaking our heads in disbelief - the meal was truly one... more

Truly memorable

My friend and I enjoyed a most wonderful evening here! The service and food were exemplary and we will definitely return!
I had the lamb which was so tender a knife was not even required.
My friend had the scallops and they were to die for.
The restaurant is small but very quaint and quiet.
View my photos and you... more

Really delicious. Food was served promptly and tasted really fresh! My scallops were seared nicely but I was more impressed by the accompaniments. The beurre blanc sauce, potatoes and spinach all enhanced the dish nicely. Small daily menu works because everything is done well!

Service was friendly. Because it is a tiny restaurant it is hard to get a table. Many parties were turned away and it... more

Here's what I didn't like:
-Small portion sizing on the appetizer which consisted of four thinly sliced pieces of roast beef with four capers and drizzled with some kind of mustard sauce.
-Set menu pricing of $28 for groups of eight or more with the standard 15% tip
-The two hour limit the restaurant gave our group of 15 to order and finish our meal
-The $2 per person charge if you wanted to... more

What a wonderful surprise

I have had this one one my list for a year!a mistake. While this is a small spot so do make reservations, do not miss it. The owners are front and centre and the staff are so friendly. The three courses had us just raving. My choices best mushroom soup ever! Scallops cooked to perfection with potatoes and spinach on... more

Simply wonderful

This was one of the best meals ever! The service was great, very friendly and warm. I can't wait to go back! Also excellent value! Make a reservation, it is a very intimate place.

Lovely small restaurant on the Drive with great food. Our table had the salmon tartar and mushroom soup for starters which were wonderful. Both the scallops and osso buco mains were delish. To end, we had the chocolate lava cake and spiced pears. Everything was beautifully prepared and well presented. We would like to see some local wine and beer on the menu but get that they are trying to say... more

Absolutely outstanding

It's a small bistro, fun ambience and first class service. They have few choices, which apparently change daily, but they sounded so good, we wanted to try them all. Settled for prawn cakes, beautifully sered and simple, seared scallops, duck confit- all well presented and as good as they get. Delicious accompaniment of scalloped potatoes. Small but well chosen and... more

3rd Time at this Amazing Real Deal French !st Class Bistro. This couple are so passionate who run this restaurant. It's a very small room with the open kitchen. I have to have a glass of Absinthe with my meal here. Just have to.
We always choose the $35.00 3 course meal. This time I chose the Carpaccio to start and then I couldn't for the second time resist the Duck Confit. And to end my... more

I took my food group here tonight.
We had the three course dinner for $35 which is a great deal. Manu changes every day at this restaurant and you get a choice three appies, three mains and three desserts or you can opt for two courses for $28. I had the chicken liver terrine for my starter which was good but as I was eating it I remembered I am not a huge fan of liver lol! My main was the... more

Memorable Anniversary Dinner

On Dec. 20, 2013 my wife and I had a memorable 55th Wedding Anniversary dinner at Absinthe Bistro. We had heard good reviews but were unprepared for such a remarkable dining experience. It started with all the staff treating us as if we were old friends not seen in a long time and the setting was warm and friendly. Seating... more

So good I almost want to keep it a secret

This is a wonderful restaurant. The food is exceptional, it is beautifully cooked and served.
The room is lovely, contemporary yet quiet. Our server was professional and gracious.
This restaurant punches way above its weight, both for location and price.
Our group have decided that in future the question will not be, where do we go for dinner, but only,... more

My wife and i went here for a bite before heading over to The Cultch. The service was excellent, the food delicious, and the atmosphere was unassuming. prices were also reasonable - not the usual bill shock to kill my wine buzz.

I wanted to give this place 5 stars, I really do. Here's a little tale of my dining experience.

My lady and I arrived on a Saturday night about 7PM. The place was half full, mainly because of a small wedding celebration in the back. Seated instantly.

We opted for the three course menu for $35 per head. It's a pretty good value for the quality of food you receive, with decent portions. French... more

Absinthe is a memorable place that makes you want to Wikipedia absinthe

Small place, small menu, big flavour.
Basically 3 to choose from of appies main and desserts. In our group of 5 we covered almost all menu items. Everyone was thrilled with their meals. The service was very good. Attentive if perhaps a little soft spoken as the restaurant filed with people noises.

Best Restaurant on The Drive

While visiting Vancouver we stumbled across this little gem of a restaurant. I have dined at most restaurants on The Drive and found most to really boring. A small hole in the wall with seating on the patio for only two deuces, inside seats about twenty or so. The menu changes regularly and for $35.00 you can choose three courses.... more

Mouth watering

Went there with my husband and had the most amazing meal! For appetizers we had the salmon with avocado and it was amazing! The scallops were to die for and the creme brûlée was so good I wanted to lick the plate! What an amazing little bistro! You must come and try the food! You will keep coming back!

Gourmet French Cuisine on the Drive

We've been meaning to try this place since it opened last year but the timing never seemed right. Tonight we licked out- a table for 2 at a moment's notice. It was a warm night so we sat outside at one if 2 tables. A bit noisy, but hey, it's Commercial Drive on a Friday night.
Inside is a little... more

Elegant, Delicious Food. Intimate Dining Experience. Very Joyous Staff.

Simply amazing. Servers were wonderful and great with my daughter. Will definitely be back.

My gal and I planned to out for dinner on Friday nite. However, we have to avoid the downtown and yaletown area due to home game, concert, iron man on show and etc.
Eventually, my friend picked Absinthe Bistro for causal French dinner. It's a hidden gem amongst the plethora of restaurants that line on Commercial Drive. It's small and cozy vibe.

The servers were friendly and service was... more

In love with this cute little French bistro! A tiny menu that changes constantly to keep their offerings as fresh as possible, and the server to guest ratio was wonderful - our water glasses (without ice- how European!) never went empty. The atmosphere was lovely, as the kitchen and dining area were one space, It was like you had your own private chef cooking for you. I can not say enough good... more

Absinthe is a wonderful new French restaurant which raises the bar on The Drive. The food is superb, the service excellent and the decor is delightful. The menu is limited and changes regularly. The foie gras was amazing - melt-in-your-melt delicious. My companion had the scallops which she loved while I had the duck leg which was very tasty. We finished off with Crème brûlée for dessert which... more

A Parisian Bistro on Commercial Drive

Tiny beautiful Bistro. I would advise to reserve. Absolutely delicious authentic french food. From the cocktails to dessert we thoroughly enjoyed every delicious bite. The view is open to the kitchen so you can see chef quietly and artistically creating every plate. The service was excellent even though it got very busy. The chef's wife told us they will try... more

This is my new favourite restaurant in Vancouver. I love the personal service and the fact that they develop a limited menu based on what is fresh. Everything about it says French -- the simple decor, the attention to the food, even the nationality of the chef. We found that the $35 three course menu was too much. Next time we'll order two $28 dinners and share an appie and dessert. The price... more

Simply Perfect

Tucked away next to a pizza joint, Absinthe is one of those little places that would usually be a serendipitous find when strolling down on Commercial Drive on a rainy day looking at the various shops. But luck had nothing to do with the two of us being there on Friday night, this place came heavily recommended by a French... more

A great neighbourhood bistro

This restaurant is a great addition to Commercial Drive. It is family run, with friendly owners and staff. The decor takes you back to Paris. The menu is small, with three appetizers, three mains, and three desserts. The chicken liver pate was absolutely delicious, served with small gherkin pickles and mustard. The chocolate lava cake oozed with warm chocolate and... more

I have to recommend this place, it's a very decent French bistro with a limited seasonal menu with great wine prices but wait the best part is....
2 course (starter + entree or entree + dessert) $28...yes $28 wow what can you eat for $28??? Well I started with the goat cheese terrine, very good size terrine with a side salad to start. Wait I forgot to tell you about the bread, it's a proper... more

Love makes everything better.

Thanks to Simon K for organizing a UYE here. With a good turnout we ended up having the entire place to ourselves!

The owners, Cory (chef) and Juliana (chief of hospitality) are as welcoming as could be. The whole time it felt like we were being hosted in their home. Detecting a non-French accent, I asked Juliana how they met and her story would make anyone go... more

There's a new French restaurant in Vancouver. It's located on Commercial, which isn't known as the district for French cuisine. I came here for an UYE dinner event organized by Simon K. Since it's a bistro, I wasn't expecting a fancy décor, but the ambiance felt a little classy and casual at the same time. I just wish they had some vintage French posters in the dining area.

The starter dish... more

Just writing this review is making me hungry and want to go back asap *pouts*

Came here for a UYE after going from DT to Coquitlam then to here, within a span of less than 2 hours. Needless to say, I was exhausted and ready to eat some delicious food. I was not disappointed at all!

Goat cheese terrine: Very very good. I loved the creamy, smooth texture and it was very tasty. It's thicker than... more

An absolute gem on Commercial Drive. Opened just recently and is situated in a great foot traffic area just across from the park, near Havana and Biercraft. This place will surely be discovered and booked up soon. The amazing food and great value will help to seal its popularity for those who want to have great French food without the fine dining atmosphere and prices. Absinthe Bistro is all... more

I've walked by this place a few times, however, I must have been so self absorbed in my IPOD that I missed it...shame on me. I love French food, especially crème brulee. I am a bit of a crème brulee junkie. I will get more into the crème brulee later I promise.

The atmosphere is nice and cozy, nicely decorated, however, not too pretentious which is refreshing. You can come as you are or dress... more

A super quaint and nice spot this is. I've always enjoyed an open kitchen concept.

The proprietors are genuinely friendly and care about their customers.

We came last night and ended up taking up the entire restaurant thereby p@!%!*g off a couple of regulars, but they were good about it and chatted with us.

After the majority of everyone arrived, a couple of us, me included, had an absinthe... more