The 2026 salmon season has arrived with particular excitement, as British Columbia anticipates its strongest Fraser River sockeye return since 2018. To mark the occasion, selected restaurants across the province are showcasing limited-time Wild BC Salmon features, giving diners the opportunity to enjoy one of our most celebrated ingredients at its seasonal peak.
There are few places more fitting to savour wild BC Salmon than LIFT Bar Grill View. Overlooking Coal Harbour, with panoramic views of Stanley Park, the North Shore Mountains, and the sparkling waterfront, the restaurant captures the essence of West Coast dining.
I have long admired Chef Chris Andraza’s cooking, and this seasonal feature is another reminder of why. His approach is thoughtful and understated, allowing exceptional local ingredients to shine through refined technique and subtle Pacific influences.
Our evening begins with two elegant appetizers that immediately set a coastal tone. A salmon roe blini, topped with crème fraîche and fresh chives offering a delicate burst of salinity balanced by the richness of the cream. It is followed by a Skeena River salmon crudo, lightly marinated in soy and finished with chopped cucumbers and pickled onions, then served with crisp nori chips for texture.
The main course pairs grilled wild BC Salmon with fried polenta, roasted nori aioli, broccolini, baby carrots, beurre blanc and chive oil. Grilled to perfection with a gentle smokiness from the grill. The silky beurre blanc adds richness, while the herbaceous chive oil brings freshness and colour to the plate. The dish celebrates the quality of the ingredients and reflects what West Coast cuisine does best: fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and flavours that feel connected to place.
The pairing with Arrowleaf Cellars Rosé completes the experience beautifully. Made from 100% pinot noir grapes, the wine is pale salmon in colour with aromas of strawberry and brioche. The wine offers a vibrant acidity and a refreshing finish. It cuts effortlessly through the richness of the beurre blanc while complementing the salmon’s flavour.
For anyone looking to celebrate wild BC Salmon at its finest this season, LIFT’s feature is an easy recommendation. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely waterfront lunch or a sunset dinner overlooking Coal Harbour, Chef Andraza’s menu is a thoughtful reminder of why British Columbia’s wild salmon remains one of the defining tastes of the West Coast.
Lift Bar Grill View
333 Menchions Mews, Vancouver BC, V6G 3H5
Lunch – Monday to Friday 11:30am – 3pm
Brunch – Saturday and Sunday 11am – 2:30pm
Dinner – Daily 5pm
Happy Hour – Daily 3pm – 5:30pm