Welcome to Calabash Bistro
Calabash Bistro, nestled in the vibrant heart of Vancouver at 428 Carrall Street, serves a captivating blend of Caribbean flavors and local ingredients. Their story is one of cultural celebration, offering a menu that showcases authentic dishes like jerk chicken, oxtail, and delectable vegan options. Guests rave about the flavorful, hearty portions, complemented by inventive craft cocktails and friendly service. The lively atmosphere, enhanced by the sounds of reggae, invites everyone to dine and unwind. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, Calabash Bistro promises a memorable culinary journey infused with island warmth and hospitality.
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428 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2J7, Canada Hotline: +1 604-568-5882
Welcome to Calabash Bistro, an enchanting gem nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s vibrant downtown at 428 Carrall St. This unique culinary destination invites you to savor authentic Caribbean flavors intertwined with a touch of Canadian flair. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, hosting a lively dance party, or simply indulging in a flavorful meal, Calabash Bistro promises a remarkable dining experience.
The menu is a celebration of Caribbean cuisine, featuring an array of mouthwatering appetizers and hearty entrees. Guests can start their culinary journey with signature dishes like the Calabash Wings, which are jerk-marinated and served alongside jerk aioli, perfect for those craving a spicy kick. For a taste of tradition, the Doubles, featuring fried bread stuffed with curried chickpeas, offer a satisfying vegan option that’s both hearty and delicious.
- Calabash Poutine: A delightful twist on a classic, this dish features jerk fries smothered in brie cheese, making for a rich, savory indulgence.
- Hearty Vegan Soup: Combining mixed veggies and coconut milk, this dish is a nourishing, flavorful option that embodies the essence of Caribbean warmth.
- Oxtail: A must-try, braised to perfection, it's a standout dish that has garnered rave reviews for its tenderness and rich flavor profile.
Calabash Bistro not only excels in food but also creates an atmosphere abuzz with warmth and friendliness. Regulars and newcomers alike rave about the immersive experience, enhanced by the backdrop of classic reggae music that perfectly complements the vibrant decor. Patrons often leave glowing reviews about not just the food, but the inviting ambiance and exceptional service. For example, a couple celebrating their anniversary mentioned how the ginger-beer rum drink "made them feel happy," highlighting the careful attention to detail in both food and drink pairings.
As you unwind in this lively setting, the staff, while not always of Caribbean descent, demonstrate remarkable knowledge of the menu, ensuring every guest feels welcomed and well-cared for. Whether you're indulging in the robust flavors of jerk chicken or enjoying the addictive hot sauces that have garnered accolades, your taste buds are in for a thrilling ride.
If you’re seeking an unforgettable culinary adventure that transports you to the Caribbean without leaving Vancouver, Calabash Bistro is the place to be. With its outstanding service, vibrant atmosphere, and eclectic menu, this bistro is bound to become a favorite in your dining repertoire.
I had a great time with my lady! We were celebrating our anniversary. My ginger-beer rum drink was perfect - tasty and made me feel happy ;) Jerk chicken meal was exactly what I was craving. And they surprised us with a couple's matching drink. 3 We'll be back!
We had the best night at Calabash. We hired the venue for a Tropical dance party and everyone who came had an amazing time. The staff we very friendly, the food was delicious, the space looked amazing! We are definitely coming back!
The food is great, Caribbean food mixed with a slight bit of Canadian. Definitely a different vibe! The location isn’t the best but if you’re looking for Caribbean food, this is the place to go! The old school reggae music playing in the background adds to the vibe. The employees don’t seem to be Caribbean people but they have a good knowledge of what’s going on and what they’re serving. I would 10/10 recommend.
Delicious Caribbean food in a lively atmosphere. We were seating downstairs for the first time back to dine in since restrictions were lifted. We ordered the jerk chicken and oxtail. Both dishes were very tasty and perfectly spiced. The plaintains and coconut dumplings were also great sides that came with the oxtail. Will definitely return to explore more of the menu.
For the price point, I feel like you really do get what you pay for. The portion sizes are large and filling and the food is quite involved and has a lot of different components. Everything tastes fresh and delicious. I had the oxtail which was braised until tender and gelatinous in some parts--exactly how it should be. My partner had the fried cod that was fried in a house-made flour mix and it was wonderful. Service was fast and friendly. I want to come back time and time again.
I hosted a special event two weeks ago, and everything went wonderfully! My guests had a fantastic time and shared many compliments about the venue and the customer service. I admit I was a bit concerned about the surrounding area, but it turned out to be a non-issue. If you’re looking for a place to host a party with excellent service, great food, drinks, and fun in downtown, this is it!
Excellent service. The Kung Fu Roti was delicious. Will definitely be back!
Food is fantastic, the oxtail was cooked to perfection, popcorn lobster was brilliant, the hot sauce is absolutely addictive. Chef Kevin brings excellent specials that compliment the menu. The rum punch is likely the best you can find anywhere in Vancouver. Great service as well!