Bar
Before, After or Instead
In every city there are a handful of destination bars, where the vibe is just right, the cocktails are fabulous, and the food is extraordinary.
The ensemble bar is the city centre's newest destination bar - an instant success for its effortless coolness and approachability. A place to be seen only if you want to, and then by the muted filtered light of two spectacular plexi chandeliers. View gallery.
"By design, the essence of the space is clubby moderne.", says Chef/Proprietor Dale MacKay. "Small hits of Moulin Rouge in the dining room add a provocative element to the view from the bar. People feel great in this room."
The real story though is the food. Top Chef Canada contender Dale MacKay presides over the ensemble kitchen, offering an unstructured menu of exquisite small plates to guests at the bar and in the dining room. The service standards, portions and attention to detail are the same throughout the intimate space.
The ensemble dinner menu combines classic French techniques with influences and flavour profiles from around the world, offering generous-sized tasting dishes priced from $8-$24. Feature items range from a sophisticated Beef Shin and Fritz with Carrot Purée and Watercress for $13, to Dale’s comfort food favourite Pulled Pork Sandwich with Apple-Horseradish Slaw and Watermelon for $8.50, to a gorgeously simple Fresh Cheese and Roasted Beet Salad with Basil, Orange and Radish for $9.
On game nights, Bar Manager Ben Lambie offers a specially priced pairing of Icy Cold Red Truck on tap and Dale's famous Pulled Pork Sandwich with Apple Horseradish and Watermelon for just $15. The very same Black Cod with Thai Broth (dubbed 'liquid gold' on Food Network's Top Chef Canada episode five), Bok Choy, Coriander and Chili Oil debuts daily for just $18.
Reserve a space now, or drop in next time you are just off Robson. Street parking is plentiful.
ensemble restaurant and bar is Dale Mackay's modern french restaurant where classical French technique meets the modern interpretation and seasonal flavours of British Columbia. Executive Chef/Proprietor and Top Chef Canada contender Dale MacKay's first restaurant promises an extraordinary culinary experience in a relaxed, approachable atmosphere just steps from bustling Robson Street. Casual dress code, open for weekend brunch and for dinner every Tuesday thru Sunday. Private dining and catering services are available.