In a space brightened with fresh green hues and plenty of greenery, Petrichor Social is serving up a taste of the South of France in Vancouver's Gastown.
Located at 216 Abbott St, Petrichor is the first-time restaurant venture for owner and General Manager Luc Duval, who took over the former Jules Bistro space after the veteran French spot said "au revoir" late last year.
Petrichor Social's official opening day was March 4.
On the menu are dishes inspired by Duval's native France, in particular his hometown of Montpellier, which is located about 10 kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea.
Southern French staples like pommes aligot - a rich, stretchy, cheesy potato preparation - support braised beef with seasonal veggies, while a generous serving of tender steamed mussels is paired with a creamy leek sauce and a wedge of bread for swiping the bowl clean.
One starter, the Oeuf Parfait, showcases a 63-degree slow-poached egg in a seasonal velouté (a thick soup) with dabs of creamy feta and salty prosciutto. Right now, as winter fades, the soup is a rich, hearty butternut squash, but Duval says guests will see the central ingredient shift as spring settles in.
Another dish with roots from southern France featured on the Petrichor Social menu is the Pommes Dauphine, which are fluffy mashed potato balls that have been golden fried and are served with a truffle aioli for dipping.
For dessert, there's vanilla soft-serve loaded with your choice of brownie or cranberry toppings.
As the name implies, Petrichor Social aims to offer a welcoming gathering place in the neighbourhood for enjoying food and drink and conversation with friends and companions. The room is cozy and charming and the overall atmosphere is comfortable and convivial.
Petrichor Social is currently open daily from 3 to 10 p.m.
Video: Visiting the just-opened new Vancouver restaurant Petrichor Social
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