Canucks fever is at an all time high and Vancouverite foodies can’t resist the Canucks themed food specials all around town. Last night, I enjoyed the Kesler Combo: a delicious jambon, champignon and pana gradano flatbread pizza along with a pint of smooth Philips Blue Buck Pale Ale at the new Tableau Bar Bistro in the chic Loden Hotel.

Marc-Andre Choquette, Tableau’s executive chef, of Lumiere Restaurant fame, is at the helm of this stunning new Parisian bistro inspired restaurant in the heart of Coal Harbour. The cuisine is French inspired, organic and sourced locally as much as possible. The restaurant bar serves well made seasonal in-house and classic cocktails, local beer on tap and an eclectic wine list with a focus on France.

As part of the Canucks Stanely Cup final excitement, Tableau is serving the Oyster Hat Trick: 3 shucks for 3 bucks. They had sold out of fresh oysters at the end of the evening as they should but we made a mental note to come back game time to try it. They also have the Tanner Glass Special: a rotating beer special for $5.

I tasted the remarkable Vivreau sparkling water, and I learned that it was environmentally positive with its carbon and ceramic filtration technology. Vivreau technology doesn’t require water to be transported across long distances and purifies it through ultra-violet light.

The dining list showcased Mr. Choquette’s love for the seasonal and classical French cuisine. Most of the flatbread ingredients were locally sourced, along with their seafood. We tried their decadent and smooth dark chocolate mousse with whipped cream and griottine cherries. It was presented beautifully with wafer rolls dipped in dark and white chocolate and pistachio bits.

We enjoyed their serious drink list with a Ketel One dirty vodka martini and Oban 14 yr. old single malt scotch. The ambiance, along with knowledgeable and charming service made for a pleasant visit. The room boasted brass and dark woods, marble floors, original ‘pop art’ elements, expansive outdoor patio and luxurious private rooms.

I recommend Tableau for its intimate banquette nooks, excellent cocktails and an emphasis on the local. It’s New York bar cool meets Parisian bistro chic.

P.S. You can view my reviews, including this one, through VancouverObserver here.