6 - Chambar Belgian Restaurant

A formerly forlorn spot on the edge of Gastown has been transformed into one of the hottest destinations in town, thanks to this restaurant’s inspired – if somewhat obscure – blending of Belgian and Moroccan cuisine. Chef Nico Schuermans has cooked in restaurants in Europe, Africa and Australia and throws dashes of all these influences into his eclectic menu. You might begin with a trendy octopus carpaccio, move on to traditional Moroccan lamb tajine (think flavours of honey, figs, cinnamon) and end with Belgian waffles.

Schuermans’ wife, Karri, a graphic and fashion designer, is responsible for the restaurant’s winning look. A long, laquered walnut bar dominates the lounge area at the entrance; further in, plush banquettes and much natural light welcomes a fashionable crowd into the dining room.

The locally inspired wine list is supplemented by an inventive cocktail menu – and a great selection of Belgian beers complete with tasting notes, because Schuermans remembers his roots.

562 Beatty St., Vancouver, 604-879-7119

www.chambar.com

7 - Ô Chalet

Giant toast! Slightly charred by grill marks, homemade jam on the side. The definitive toast. It’s emblematic of the old-school Canadiana cottage-chic feel of this restaurant just south of Montreal’s gay village, with its cowhide barstools, maple-syrup-bucket light fixtures and a burnt-wood panel depicting rutting elk. Roxy Music is as likely playing in the background as Hank Williams or Jimmy Buffett. But it all works.

Similarly, complex comfort food alludes to nostalgia. Imagine the best TV dinner you’ve ever tasted – but with breaded, fried pork terrine and lobster in place of the Salisbury steak. Intentionally kitschy and tacky, maybe, but this place is no gimmick – the warm, cordial staff and sophisticated cooking combine to create a feeling of soothing warmth and good clean fun, just what happy memories are made of.

1393, boul. René-Lévesque E., Montréal, 514-527-7070

www.ochalet.net