I am constantly asked Whats the best restaurant in Vancouver?, Whats the best thing youve ever eaten? and to be honest, I dont know. How could I? I havent tried everything in the world yet. If I tried every single restaurant in Vancouver, maybe I could answer the first question, but even so it would be based on my favourite and not the best.
Take, for instance, pizza. People are always looking for the best place for pizza and my answer is always depends. Do you want Neapolitan style? New York style? Chicago style? Crispy crust? Foldable crust? There are so many variations of pizza; how can I possibly recommend one? And even if I recommended my best pizza place, it would be very debatable since it is all based on preference. Taste is not only highly subjective, but purely personal.
I am guilty of asking wheres the best questions too, particularly to things not relating to food. I always try and put it into context relative to time, place and other things I have tried, but still the question is not the best to ask.
Whether best of lists are used to increase SEO or quickly get the attention of the majority, the word has little substance without context and information to back it up. The once powerful word has little meaning when it is used without passion, integrity and conviction. If you really mean it, then by all means use it sparingly.
I love giving recommendations, but the best is really near impossible for anyone to answer. I certainly have favourite restaurants and/or chefs, and personal best of lists, but even so things change with time. Chefs change positions, menus change, palates and standards change, and sometimes I even go to places that are good at doing only one menu item.
Of course there are credible best of lists, more or less respectfully accepted as legit, but I still wouldnt take it as-is. Often lists highlight whats new, hot and happening, rather than whats tried, tested and true.
So next time theres a best of list, the best thing to do is to question it, or better yet challenge it.
Now speaking of best of lists, here are my recommendations for unique items which have little to be compared to.
The Steakhouse Sushi Roll at Sidecut Modern Steak in Whistler is not a traditional sushi roll. This riceless roll features avocado and dried tomato wrapped up in a grilled rare steak served with sweet soy.
The Aburi Salmon Oshi Sushi at Miku or Minami is a modern take on Japanese sushi; it is not your average salmon sushi. It is made with pressed local salmon, jalapeño, and a secret Miku sauce which makes all the difference after it is flame torched upon order.
The Persian Tasting Menu at Diva at the Met is hard for any chef to replicate. It requires an expert understanding of science and Persian cuisine. At five courses for $55 or seven courses for $75 the menu offers Persian food like youve never tasted. It is not only unique to the restaurant, but to Vancouver. Its on until June 4.
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Find me at Feast Tofino in Tofino (happening for the month of May), at Cinnamon Bear Bar & Grille at Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa (May 16-17) and at Food Fight (a fundraiser for fellow industry peer and friend, chef Owen Lightly on May 19).
Find out more about Mijune at FollowMeFoodie.com or follow her on Twitter @followmefoodie.
