Whistler has long prided itself on its world-class offerings, whether that’s in the alpine or at après. You can add fine dining to that list, too, an area where the resort has long punched above its weight class.
It should come as no surprise then that two Whistler restaurants—one a culinary mainstay, the other the new kid on the block—have made this year’s Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list, as chosen by a panel of 130 food writers, chefs, restaurateurs, and other food service professionals.
Canada’s 100 Best regular Bearfoot Bistro was ranked No. 54 this year, climbing up nearly 20 spots after being ranked 73rd last year. “At this nearly-three-decade-old Whistler mainstay, chef Melissa Craig’s French-influenced menu showcases both local and international luxury ingredients. The 20,000-bottle cellar leans mostly old-world,” judges said.
Newcomer Wild Blue made its first appearance on the list, coming in the 66th spot. The restaurant known for its elevated seafood was also ranked No. 4 on the Best New Restaurants list, the only B.C. restaurant to do so. Judges applauded the restaurant’s “sustainable, local take on Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on seafood, supplemented by forays into Alberta elk and Japanese A5 wagyu beef,” and also credited Chris Edens’ “extensive wine list” that “covers all bases.”
In a release, partner and restaurant director Neil Henderson said the Wild Blue team is “truly honoured to be recognized by ‘Canada’s 100 Best. We take great pride in ensuring the entire Wild Blue guest experience is memorable, and I believe this recognition speaks to that goal.”
Partner, chef and 2018 Vancouver Chef of the Year Alex Chen added: “Alongside my culinary team, we strive to elevate every ingredient we have the privilege of working with. Creating the menu at Wild Blue has been done with much consideration to the quality of the regional ingredients and the final product our guests will truly enjoy.”
To view the full list, visit canadas100best.com.
