One of the things that I remember from working in restaurants was the crush of private staff parties that come every year in advance of Christmas. That crush has already started, of course, but we thought we’d make finding and booking quality venues for private parties a lot easier for our readers by providing a list of places that we know from experience to be excellent. We canvassed the Scout Community to see what was available out there – specifically how many seats for buyouts and private rooms – and we think the responses to date will serve you in good stead. If you missed the invitation to contribute to the list and would like to add your establishment, by all means please contact Mitsumi Kawai at mitsumi [at] scoutmagazine.ca lickety split and she’ll hook you up. Get feasting after the jump…
“Imaginative French influenced Chinese cuisine paired with an innovative yet approachable asian inspired cocktail list.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 20 people | Stand-up: 30 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 70 people | Stand-up: 150 people
99 Powell Street, Vancouver | 604-428-0301 | www.bambudda.ca
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“Chambar Restaurant invites you to leave your day at the door and enjoy an evening of unpretentious fine dining.”
Private Room – Medina | Sit-down: 15-26 people | Stand-up: up to 50 people
Private Room – Siberia | Sit-down: 25-36 people | Stand-up: up to 60 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 140 people | Stand-up: 300 people
562 Beatty St, Vancouver | 604-879-7119 | www.chambar.com
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“Designed with beauty and comfort in mind, the space and menu are a reflection of worldly travels and life experiences by both the owners and chefs and welcomes the union of cultures so familiar on the West Coast. With no distinction between casual fine dining, the expertly crafted menu by Chef Makoto Ono exudes a delicate approachability associated with familiar flavours and childhood memories.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 54-74 people including bar side seating | Stand-up: 85 people
350 Carrall St, Vancouver | 604-620-9400 | www.pidginvancouver.com
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“Vancouver Urban Winery is the first Urban Winery in the heart of Vancouver. Join us for a unique holiday experience with interactive wine tastings with 36 wines to choose from. Enjoy a selection of light tapas from local artisan cheese makers and some of the best charcuterie in town. Enjoy your visit, and happy holidays!”
Reservation Capacity | Sit-down: 20 people | Stand-up: 25 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 40 people | Stand-up: 65 people | Available Sunday – Wednesday
55 Dunlevy Avenue, Vancouver | 604-566-9463 | www.vancouverurbanwinery.com
Open to the public Thursday-Saturday
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MILANO ESPRESSO LOUNGE GASTOWN
“With its contemporary design features and comfortable yet stylish feel, Milano Espresso Lounge embodies the laid-back, West Coast feel of Vancouver with the cool edge of the Gastown district. Very proudly from Vancouver, Milano Coffee not only offers a variety of perfectly balanced espresso blends but also a selection of artisan baked goods and charceuterie sandwich selections for guests to enjoy while they hang out and experience the city.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 50 people | Stand-up: 70 people
36 Powell Street, Vancouver | 604.558.0999 | www.milanocoffee.ca
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THE DIRTY APRON COOKING SCHOOL AND DELICATESSEN
The Dirty Apron Cooking School is Vancouver’s favourite culinary playground, a place for amateur cooks, the curious and professionals alike to learn, explore, and unleash their inner chef. Our classes feature various themes and are approximately four hours in length. This unique and flexible venue offers endless possibilities for providing private cooking classes to large groups and unconventional holiday parties.
Buy-Out Capacity | 22 people per class | Sit-down: 32 seated in private dining area | Stand-up: Variable
540 Beatty Street, Vancouver | 604-879-8588 | www.dirtyapron.com
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“The Irish Heather is built for groups, with semi-private snugs that seat 10 guests right up to 60 guests in the famed Shebeen and everything in-between. With a full kitchen and a full bar, including BC largest whisk(e)y selection, the Irish Heather can serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, canapés tastings, etc. The Heather also boasts one of the most perfect group spaces in Vancouver, a 50 ft communal table that seats 50 guests on the same table!”
Shebeen Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 50 people | Stand-up: 60 people
Long Table Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 50 people
212 Carrall Street, Vancouver | 604-696-9701 | www.irishheather.com
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“Salt Tasting Room can sit 22 guests on its communal table in the main dining room or 34 on the communal table in its cellar. Alternatively, you can book out the entire cellar for 50 guests. Cured meats, cheese and wines are the order of the day at Salt, but 3 course dinners are frequently served, using the hot kitchens of our brother operations.”
Salt Cellar Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 50 people | Stand-up: 55 people
44 Blood Alley, Vancouver | 604-696-9701 | www.salttastingroom.com
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“Bitter can be booked out for parties of up to 75 guests – perfect for beer tasting, canapés or sit down meals.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 20 people | Stand-up: 20 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 75 people
16 West Hastings St, Vancouver | 604-696-9701 | www.bittertastingroom.com
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“Great for buffets or table service, large or multiple small bookings, for Breakfast meetings, lunches, afternoon gatherings, dinner, canapé receptions and supper. This large, bright, heritage room is one of the few large rooms in the city.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 100 people | Stand-up: 110 people
2 West Cordova St, Vancouver | 604-696-9701 | www.rainierprovisions.com
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“Over the holidays, Pourhouse will be featuring a couple festive cocktails. We will be bringing back our traditional Flip made with egg, Torres 5-year old brandy, simple syrup, and freshly ground nutmeg, priced at $13. We will also be featuring our soul warming Glogg made with red wine, port, sugar, brandy and mulling spices. The drink is garnished with slivered almonds and raisins soaked in aquavit.”
162 Water Street, Vancouver | 604-568-7022 | www.pourhousevancouver.com
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“Come to escape the rush and unwind in a unique atmosphere where cocktails, food and music are in harmony. The Keefer Bar’s intricately designed cocktail program focuses on Apothecary style drinks created to soothe ailments and balance one’s mood. Let Chinatown and The Keefer Bar be the backdrop to your Holiday Party.”
Back Room Capacity | Sit-Down: 25 people | Stand-up & Sit-down: 35 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-Down: 60 people | Stand-up & Sit-down: 75 people
135 Keefer Street, Chinatown, Vancouver | 604-688-1961 | [email protected] | www.thekeeferbar.com
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“The Parker is a sexy and sustainable vegetarian restaurant featuring the talents of Steve Da Cruz and Top Chef Canada’s Curtis Luk. The ever evolving menu showcases the best of the season and our region but most importantly, our passion. We look forward to making your next visit memorable.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-Down: 20 people | Stand-up (cocktail): 30 people
237 Union Street, Vancouver | 604-779-3804 | theparkervancouver.com
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“Campagnolo Restaurant’s menu is inspired by the Piedmont and Emilia Romagna regions of Italy. Dishes are made with integrity from locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Campagnolo offers three unique rooms for private parties to choose from and alla famiglia group menus are available for parties of 8 or more.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 35 | Stand-up: 50
Buy-out Capacity | Sit-down: 100 | Stand-up: 150
1020 Main Street, Vancouver | 778-887-5465 | www.campagnolorestaurant.ca
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“Campagnolo ROMA serves dishes inspired by the classics of Rome. The menu is simple, focusing on antipasti, pasta and pizza showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients available. Alla famiglia group menus are available for parties of 8 or more.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 36 | Stand-up: 50
2297 East Hastings Street, Vancouver| 604-569-0456 | www.campagnoloroma.com
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“Cool, innovative modern cuisine in one of Vancouver’s long standing restaurants. Beginning October 30 there will be Appy Hour on weekdays from 4 – 6pm with half priced appetizers and $6.00 glasses of wine.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 102 people
645 Howe Street, Vancouver | 604-643-7788 | http://www.metropolitan.com/diva/
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“30 varietals by the glass, innovative flights and tantalizing bites. Handmade seasonally inspired cocktails by renowned Bar Manager Lauren Mote. Features same award-winning menu as Cibo Trattoria, and has been voted Best Wine Bar in Vancouver for three years running.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 14 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 40 people | Stand-up: 75 people
900 Seymour Street, Vancouver | 604-602-9570 | www.uvawinebar.ca
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“Rustic Italian menu with sustainable and organic focus; proud partners with Slow Foods Vancouver. Under the guidance of Esteemed Wine Director Steve Edwards, Cibo Trattoria features the best Italian wine cellar in the city, complimented with new world picks.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 14 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 50 people | Stand-up: 80 people
900 Seymour Street, Vancouver | 604-602-9570 | www.cibotrattoria.ca
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“David Hawksworth’s Bel Cafe combines expertly prepared food and beverages with intelligent and friendly service in an inviting, elegant and chic setting. Full table service is provided alongside a selection of ‘ready to go’ items featuring fresh baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches, nourishing soups, delicate tarts and exquisite jewel-toned macarons. For the holidays they are offering hazelnut linzer cookies with raspberry preserves ($8.50 for box of 7); spiced whipped shortbread ($7 for box of 8); macaron tree made with candy cane macarons ($38); milk chocolate, hazelnut praline, poached pear Buche de Noel ($30 to $45), Christmas cake ($15). Holiday drinks include spiced eggnog latte, blueberry tea and the White Bel – all beverages are $8 each.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 20 people | Stand-up: 40 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 20 people | Stand-up: 40 people | available for bookings after 5:30pm
801 West Georgia St, Vancouver | 604-673-7000 | www.belcafe.com
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“The MARKET by Jean-Georges menu represents the ‘best of the best,’ a collection of Jean-Georges’ most popular dishes, customized to highlight the richness of British Columbia’s local products, especially the seafood of the Pacific waters. As the leader in the kitchen, Chef de Cuisine Montgomery Lau is committed to working with his team and local producers to deliver top notch product that honours the restaurant’s namesake and gives local Vancouver residents and visitors a truly world class experience.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 44 people | Stand-up: 50 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 80 people | Stand-up: 200 people
Shangril-La Hotel 1115 Alberni Street, 3rd Floor | 604-695-1115 | www.marketbyjgvancouver.com
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“Casual, comfortable and affordable, Forage celebrates all things BC. The menu is locally focused in both food and beverage; service is attentive yet never fussy; and its approachable West End location makes Forage a local’s “local”. It’s an ideal destination for breakfast seven days a week, brunch on weekends and nightly for drinks and dinner.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 75 people | Stand-up: 150 people
1300 Robson Street, Vancouver | 604-661-1400 | www.foragevancouver.ca
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Pick your style and La Pentola will work their magic:
• Fresh: Dine with Chef Lucais Syme at Yaletown’s award-winning hotspot La Pentola
• Trendsetter: Semi-private dining rooms and buyouts available
• Classic: Savour canapés and cocktails reception style in OPUS Bar
*OPUS holiday sleep over rates available from $159, reserve now*
NEW YEAR’S EVE | La Pentola will feature the usual a la carte first seating and then a special meal will be presented for the second seating. The later New Year’s Eve meal will include a glass of Moet & Chandon champagne, caviar and a mixture of individual dishes and family-style platters. Highlights will include Vitello Tonnato, lobster ravioli, Icelandic heritage breed lamb and celebratory dolci. The meal costs $65 per person, plus $25 booking fee.
Semi-Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 80 people | Stand-up: 100 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 80 people | Stand-up: 100 people
350 Davie Street, Vancouver | 604-642-0557 | www.lapentola.ca
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“Miku restaurant boasts a stunning waterfront view with a wrap-around patio, U-shaped bar, and beautiful hand-painted murals by Japanese artist Hideki Kimura. Alongside its popular Aburi “flame-seared” sushi is a menu that has more fresh seafood options, bar dishes, and cocktails and sakes.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 24 people | Stand-up: 30 people
Nakamura Lounge Capacity | Sit-down: 90 people
Front Lounge Capacity | Stand-up: 100 people
70-200 Granville Street (Canada Place Way and Howe Street), Vancouver | 604-568-3900 | www.mikurestaurant.com
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“Located in Yaletown, Minami is the sister restaurant of Miku and serves contemporary and traditional Japanese fare alongside its popular Aburi “flame-seared” sushi and Aburi beef dishes. Its clean and modern space makes it a dynamic place for dining and entertaining.”
Blue Ocean Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 40 people | Stand-up: 65 people
Blue Wave Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 14 people
Seigo Lounge Capacity | Sit-down: 55-65 people | Stand-up: 75 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 180 people | Stand-up: people
1118 Mainland Street, Vancouver | 604-685-8080 | www.minamirestaurant.com
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“Award winning modern vegetarian restaurant + bar, serving gourmet west coast cuisine off seasonal menus with fresh produce from local urban farms. Signature cocktails, BC Wines and Craft Beers available until late into the night! Gluten Free, Vegan, + Raw options abound. Call The Acorn directly to inquire about availability.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 48 people | Buy-out available Sunday-Thursday
Have a smaller group? Book your holiday party at our family table | Seats 6-10 people, 2 seatings per night
3995 Main Street, Vancouver | 604-566-9001 | www.theacornrestaurant.ca
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“Located in the heart of Kitsilano and boasting five unique rooms, which can accommodate parties from 12 to 150, and flexible menus, which include all your favourite Nuba dishes, it is an ideal setting for large gatherings of all kinds. Nuba’s dedicated team will make throwing a large event a stress-free experience by executing every detail of your party perfectly. Book your event before November 30 and receive a complimentary bottle of Finca La Estacada Tempranillo, which pairs wonderfully with Nuba’s healthy, delicious Lebanese, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Nuba in Kits can accommodate privates parties of 12 to 150.
3116 West Broadway, Vancouver | 604-336-1797 | Nuba.ca
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“Egg nog is in stock and storefronts are already hanging tinsel – the holiday season is definitely upon us. Don’t fret – you’ve still got time to book your company event at the Biltmore Cabaret! With two full bars, a wicked dance floor, stage, PA system, variable seating arrangements and more, our venue space can be customized to suit the needs of your company event. Inquiries should be directed to Michael Dawson at booking [at] biltmorecabaret [dot] com.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Stand-up: max 450 people
2755 Prince Edward Street, Vancouver | 604-676-0541 | www.biltmorecabaret.com
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ROCKY MOUNTAIN FLATBREAD COMPANY
“Our holiday menu and pizza making parties are available to parties of 8 or more and include signature dishes, seasonal specials and as always, are made in house with love. Our local and organic produce, free range organic meats, Ocean Wise seafood and gluten free menu make us the perfect fit to celebrate with friends, family and co-workers!”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 65 people
Kitsilano Location | 1876 West 1st Ave, Vancouver | 604-730-0321 | www.rockymountainflatbread.ca
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 60 people
Main Street Location | 4186 Main Street, Vancouver | 604-566-9779 | www.rockymountainflatbread.ca
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“Located in the heart of Kitsilano and boasting five unique rooms, which can accommodate parties from 12 to 150, and flexible menus, which include all your favourite Nuba dishes, it is an ideal setting for large gatherings of all kinds. Nuba’s dedicated team will make throwing a large event a stress-free experience by executing every detail of your party perfectly.
Book your event before November 30 and receive a complimentary bottle of Finca La Estacada Tempranillo, which pairs wonderfully with Nuba’s healthy, delicious Lebanese, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.”
Private Parties of 12 to 150 people
3116 West Broadway, Vancouver | 604-336-1797 | www.nuba.ca/nuba-in-kitsilano/
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MILANO COFFEE LOUNGE & TASTING BAR
“No where else but at Vancouver’s one and only espresso tasting bar can you sample eight different espresso blends – “on tap”! As the original Milano Roasting facility, this location showcases Milano’s exquisite technique, skill and diversity, serving up your perfect espresso along with an assortment of artisan baked goods and charceuterie sandwich selections.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 30 people | Stand-up: 40 people
156 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver | 604.879.4468 | www.milanocoffee.ca
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“Cross the threshold into Siena, and you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve been magically transported to Italy. Raw wood and rich, warm colours greet the eye; the aroma of Mediterranean cooking fills the air; and friendly staff welcome you to the cozy dining room.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 44 people | Stand-up: 65 people
1485 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver | 604-558-1485 | www.eatsiena.com
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“Hart House’s lakeside estate provides the perfect setting in which to enjoy our local Pacific Northwest cuisine. Our restaurant is easily accessible from downtown Vancouver and all neighbouring communities. We invite you to visit us and share in laughter, food and wine!”
Private – Dining Room Capacity | Sit-down: 80 people | Stand-up: 120 people
Private – Rosedale Room Capacity | Sit-down: 40-80 people | Stand-up: 80 people
Private – Avalon Room Capacity | Sit-down: 10-24 people | Stand-up: 35 people
Private – Lakeside Cottage Capacity | Sit-down: 10-38 people | Stand-up: 38 people
Private – Seasonal Marquee Tent Capacity | Sit-down: 250 people | Stand-up: 300 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 90 people | Stand-up: 140 people
6664 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby | 604-298-4278 | www.harthouserestaurant.com
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“Fraiche Restaurant offers guests one of West Vancouver’s most celebrated dining experiences, showcasing a perfect view of the picturesque Vancouver cityscape. A feast for the senses, the bright and elegant dining room serves diverse menus for brunch, lunch and dinner that are approachably elegant and celebrate Canada’s west coast.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 75 people | Stand-up: 75 people
2240 Chippendale Road, West Vancouver | 604.925.7595 | www.fraicherestaurant.ca
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“Located just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver in Horseshoe Bay, Olive & Anchor offers a unique dining experience in a relaxed and friendly setting, with a focus on great food and great service. Find our $45 and $55 a la carte menus for your holiday parties here.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 80 people
6418 Bay Street, West Vancouver | 604-921-8848 | http://oliveandanchor.com/
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“Savoury Chef Foods is a Vancouver, BC based off-site catering and events company. We specialize in conducting memorable occasions with world class food and service. Our menus feature seasonal, local products and we are your one stop shop for planning your holiday event!”
826 Renfrew Street, Vancouver | 604-357-7118 | www.savourychef.com
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CULINARY CAPERS CATERING AND SPECIAL EVENTS
“Whether you are looking to plan the office holiday party or entertain in a venue or home, our team is ready to guide you through the process. For a holiday roast turkey lunch in your boardroom or a formal celebration, give us a call for help with festive menu, venue and décor ideas. See catering menus and Christmas Holiday Roast Turkey Dinner for December 24th.”
1545 West 3rd Ave, Vancouver | 604-875-0123 | www.culinarycapers.com
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“Local Philosophy Catering is a boutique catering company located in the borough of New Westminster that prides itself on serving the best locally sourced product available. Drop us a line for a truly seasonal catered event.”
Vancouver, BC | 778-869-2960 | http://www.localphilosophycatering.com/ | [email protected]
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Okanagan
“Road 13’s spectacular Executive Lounge is available for private events throughout the holiday season. Wine and Catering available. Contact us for more information.”
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 35 people | Stand-up: 50 people
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 35 people | Stand-up: 50 people
799 Ponderosa Rd, Oliver BC | 250-498-8330 | www.road13vineyards.com
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“Christmas | Head to award-winning Miradoro Restaurant for a holiday celebration this Christmas season. Gather friends and family for a special dinner in this picturesque restaurant, which has won Vancouver Magazine’s ‘Best Okanagan Winery Restaurant’ for two consecutive years. For large parties, choose from a $45 three-course option that includes antipasti, a choice of pumpkin risotto, roast pancetta wrapped pork lion or roast turkey with chestnut gnocchi followed by traditional tiramisu, or a $65 three-course menu which offers a choice of gazpacho or mixed greens to start, west coast cioppino, rigatoni with sweet fennel sausage or chicken breast with fennel corn quinoa for entrees, followed by peach tiramisu. Call 1-250-498-3742 to book.
New Year’s Eve | Ring in the New Year with dinner and dancing at Miradoro on December 31st at a special New Year’s Eve party to welcome in 2014 and celebrate the end of 2013. Chef Jeff Van Geest will be cooking a three-course dinner that begins with oysters and champagne and ends with music and dancing. Tickets cost $95 pp, call 1-250-498-3742 to book.”
Buy-Out Capacity | Sit-down: 80 people
537 Tinhorn Creek Road, Oliver BC | 250-498-3742 | www.tinhorn.com/restaurant
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Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands
Have a staff party on Galiano Island with custom catering and 3 local craft beers on tap, or give away a gift certificate for a cabin rental. Beyond your log cabin the wilds of Galiano Island beckon.
Private Room Capacity | Sit-down: 42 people
120 Manastee Road, Galiano Island | 1-888-604-2677 | www.bodegaridge.com
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“Holiday menus available on request – buffet or plated for private venues. Group Accommodations Rates available. Cocktail parties, wine tastings, holiday gala dinners and more options for all group sizes.”
Private Room – Wine Cellar Capacity | Sit-down: 40 people | Stand-up: 65 people
Private Room – Rainforest Ballroom Capacity | Sit-down: 140 people | Stand-up: 200 people
Restaurant/Lounge Capacity | Sit-down: 12 people max per table
596 Marine Drive, Ucluelet, BC | 250-726-4800 | www.blackrockresort.com | [email protected]
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“Celebrate the holidays with friends, family, and colleagues at Spotted Bear Bistro in Tofino, BC, offering upscale comfort food with focus on the abundance of quality products available on Vancouver Island. Inquire about family style dinners and special holiday menus.”
Buy-out Capacity | Sit-down: 30 people | Stand-Up: 32 people
101 4th Street, Tofino, BC | 250-725-2215 | www.spottedbearbistro.com
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