Chambar’s Nico Schuermans has cooked for the likes of Mick Jagger, Prince and former U.S. President Bill Clinton. Notable singer-songwriter Lou Reed and supermodel Cindy Crawford have also visited his restaurant. So how does this award-winning chef attract so many A-list diners?
It all starts with roots in his native Belgium. Nico's grandfather was a serious foodie who exposed his grandson to a number of different restaurants throughout his youth. “By the age of 14, I had a summer job in a three-Michelin-starred French restaurant,” Nico recalls.
Nico went on to graduate from the prestigious CREPAC School of Culinary Arts in Belgium. The classically trained chef was soon honing his skills at several famous European eateries, including a stint as chef de partie at the then three-Michelin-starred Comme Chez Soi in Brussels.
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I have been here a few times with different people and have always enjoyed myself. It is best to make a reservation. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere, bright, lots of space between tables. Good amount of seating. The service has always been very good. Many good things in the menu to try and on my last visit we had a few of their daily specials and my out of town guests were just wowed by the meal.
I was taken to Chambar for a first date, and let me just say, that this place was perfect. The food is great, the service is attentive and professional, the cocktail menu is impressive, and overall, a pretty darn good dining experience. If you’re looking to take someone out for a special occasion, this place is the winner. Make sure to make a reso though, otherwise, you’re looking at either a long wait, or having to settle for another place to go instead.
Great cocktails, amazing food and a vibrant room make this a perfect location for a a pre or post show dinner. You won't be disappointed...well only if you can't get in.
My friends and I went to Chambar on a Frfiday evening after a show at the Playhouse Theatre. I have been to Chambar a few times and found it inconsistent, but all our food on Friday was great. Our waiter was kind and knew his drinks and the menu. Just skip the appies and the cakes.
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Sampling the heavenly moules frites at Chambar is a rite of passage for Vancouver fine-dining fans. The restaurant has earned critical acclaim for its striking decor, memorable menu – which combines Belgian and North African flavours – and fine wine selection, but manages to maintain an unpretentious atmosphere that welcomes families, well-heeled clientele and sports fans alike. For the Dine Out festival, Chambar has created an elegant three-course menu and the aforementioned mussels will be available in two styles: Congolaise (tomato, coconut cream and smoked chili) or Vin Blanc (white wine, butter, celery and leeks).
View this Smart ListThere are a few things you should know before grabbing a glass of wine at Chambar. First, the owners are passionate about giving back to their community. Second, they try to operate their business as green and as ethical as possible. To see this happen in real time, you’ll get your wine in an eco-friendly glass that’s washed in eco-friendly soap.
View this Smart ListChambar’s interior of exposed brick walls, funky lights and Belgian inspiration creates a welcoming and fun space. Paying homage to a cult classic, Chambar’s VIFFtail is the Death Proof, a delicious chartreuse-hued, gin-based cocktail that’s fittingly linked to the Quentin Tarantino slasher film of the same name.
View this Smart List