Dining at Joe Fortes
Makes You Feel Like a Star

By Eve Carr

Billy Joel and Arnold Schwarzenegger know what it takes to work hard to deliver solid entertainment. After work, they also know how to play hard as well as zero in on quality dining experiences. When in popular filming location Vancouver, British Columbia, for example, they—and a lot of other celebrities—head for the stylish Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House at Robson and Thurlow Streets.

Here, in a 1890’s décor rich with mahogany, marble and brass, subdued lighting that sets a casual, relaxed tone, and soaring ceilings that offer an expansive open feeling, they can sit back, relax with friends, co-workers and fans and treat themselves to some delicious dining.

Joe Fortes recently won a couple of awards this year. The 2002 DiRoNA (Distinguished Restaurants of North America) awards ceremony was held in Seattle, WA. This group recognizes the most exclusive fine dining establishments in US, Canada and Mexico. Joe Fortes had to pass a rigorous 75-point anonymous and independent inspection conducted some time over the past year. The award is given due to the exceptional food and wine, quality of service, genuine hospitality and sophisticated atmosphere of the restaurant.

Joe Fortes also received The Most Memorable Meal award from Where Magazine on 30 September 2002 for 2002 Best Seafood Restaurant in Vancouver. This is on top of the 2001 Best Overall Restaurant and 2001 Best Service awards from Where Magazine. Joe’s was nominated for Best Dessert this year, but narrowly missed out by another distinguished talent. And Joe Fortes has also been awarded ten years running by the Wine Spectator.

But you don’t have to be a star to enjoy the Joe Fortes experience. Walk into this trendy Vancouver watering hole and you’ll receive a star-worthy welcome yourself. The entire staff, who regularly play host to the sports and entertainment celebrities, will deliver first-class, personalized service to you as you sip the world’s best beverages and savor an array of outstanding cuisine, and enjoy service that that will make you feel like a star. Joe Fortes doesn’t just hire servers. Their recruitment advertisement is “If you have the passion and drive to become the best, and try to find an environment that will challenge your abilities, then send an e-mail with your resume and a cover letter to harrys@joefortes.ca to get things started.” As a result, they get servers who go out of their way to see that you not only dine, but enjoy the experience of Joe Fortes as well.

For a truly spectacular way to start your meal, do as Billy Joel has been know to do and order the three-tiered Seafood Tower on ice. Fashioned after a French specialty, this show-stopping tower of seafood makes a dramatic presentation that will impress your friends. Filled with an array of succulent seafood, it’s like a mini buffet right at your own table. And, if you’re an oyster fan, you’ll be pleased to know that Joe Fortes has been voted as Vancouver’s Best Oyster Bar. Fish lovers can enjoy not just the catch of the day, but a choice of 10 different fish, chosen from 140 varieties of fish offered each year at Joe Fortes. And, if you’re an oyster lover, you’ll be glad to know that this restaurant offers 42 varieties of oysters available throughout the year.

But you don’t have to like seafood to enjoy Joe Fortes Restaurant. From Grilled Rack of Pork Ribs to a custom, hand-cut steak in the size you want, you have plenty of menu options. But do save room for their spectacular desserts. How could you pass up Maple Walnut Baked Alaska, freshly made sorbets or the Decadence Platter for Two. While it’s nice to be tucked away in a cozy booth, it’s also fun to experience the American brasserie atmosphere at the massive horseshoe bar—or even dine in the more intimate upstairs and look down on all the action. And, in summer, the Joe’s Roof Garden is a pleasant natural setting.

Is Joe Fortes the owner? No, Joe, a burly seaman from Barbados, is a local historical icon. Proprietor Bud Kanke named this restaurant after this bartender and lifeguard, whose is said to have saved numerous lives from drowning--in the water, not at the bar. If he were alive today, he’d love the friendly, star-studded atmosphere at the restaurant that bears his name. If you live in Vancouver, your lucky. If not, plan to enjoy the Joe Fortes experience when you visit.

Joe Fortes Restaurant is located at 777 Thorlow Street, Vancouver, B.C. For more information, call 1-877-669-JOES.

About the Author:

Eve Carr is a full-time food and travel writer and photographer who absolutely enjoys sharing with others her knowledge of food, wine and restaurants that she discovers on her national and international travel.

Article coutesy of Suite101.com.