L’Abattoir Celebrates 16 Years of Culinary Excellence in Gastown
The award-winning restaurant toasts its anniversary with major industry recognition, a newly opened patio, and fresh seasonal offerings from Chef Jasper Cruickshank and the L’Abattoir team
L’Abattoir is celebrating 16 years as one of Vancouver’s most beloved dining destinations, marking the milestone with a series of recent accolades, the launch of its new summer patio, and a continued commitment to culinary excellence that has made it a cornerstone of Gastown’s dining scene since 2010.
This year has already brought significant recognition for the Michelin-recommended restaurant. At the 2026 Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards, L’Abattoir was honoured with Gold Awards for Best Upscale Contemporary, Best Private Dining Room, and Best Gastown – Reader’s Choice, reaffirming its place among the city’s most respected restaurants.
Over the years, L’Abattoir has built a loyal following through its distinctive approach to French-inspired West Coast cuisine, blending refined technique with exceptional local ingredients. Signature dishes such as Baked Pacific Oysters with whipped garlic butter and black truffle and the restaurant’s iconic Steak Diane remain enduring guest favourites.
At the same time, the menu continues to evolve. New standout dishes such as the Scallop Crudo and the roasted Wild BC Halibut showcase the kitchen’s commitment to creativity while remaining grounded in seasonality and a strong sense of place.
Leading the culinary team is Executive Chef Jasper Cruickshank, whose philosophy centres on technical precision, mentorship, and a deep respect for British Columbia’s producers and ingredients. Drawing on classic French techniques, Cruickshank’s approach is focused on thoughtful evolution rather than reinvention, honouring L’Abattoir’s legacy while bringing fresh energy to the menu.
“Sixteen years is an incredible milestone for any restaurant, and it’s a testament to the many talented people who have contributed to L’Abattoir’s success over the years,” says Cruickshank. “My goal is to honour the restaurant’s history while continuing to evolve the dining experience in meaningful ways. British Columbia offers some of the best ingredients in the world, and we’re excited to continue showcasing them through both familiar favourites and new dishes that reflect where we are today.”
Complementing the culinary program is one of the city’s most celebrated wine lists. Under the leadership of Head Sommelier Peter Van de Reep, L’Abattoir received Gold for Best French Wine List and Silver for Best Premier Wine List at the 2026 Vancouver International Wine Festival Wine Excellence Awards. The recognition highlights a wine program known for its depth, diversity, and thoughtful pairings that enhance the guest experience.
On the restaurant’s main level, Bar Manager Alexa Gervais continues to lead L’Abattoir’s acclaimed cocktail program, which balances innovation with timeless hospitality. Signature cocktails such as the Avocado Gimlet remain guest favourites, while new creations, including a bubbly twist on a single malt Scotch and tequila-and-orange popsicles, bring fresh perspectives and exciting new experiences to the bar throughout the year.
About L’Abattoir Restaurant
Located in the heart of historic Gastown since 2010, L’Abattoir is situated in a refurbished 19th-century heritage brick-and-beam building that pays homage to its history as the site of Vancouver’s first jail in the city’s main meatpacking district. Today, the Michelin-recommended restaurant has staked its claim as one of Canada’s best restaurants, with a diverse array of French-inspired West Coast cuisine focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, along with an ever-changing selection of classic and signature cocktails and a broad list of BC and imported wines.
Whether in its bar and lounge, or in its elevated dining room or glass- and steel-accented atrium, L’Abattoir offers dinner five nights a week, Tuesday to Saturday from 5:00 pm. Happy Hour is offered at the bar from 5:00 to 6:00 pm, Tuesday to Saturday, with an extended All Evening Happy Hour available every Wednesday from 5:00 to 11:00 pm. L’Abattoir also offers a beautifully appointed Private Dining Room that is completely separate from the restaurant dining room, and is available to book — for lunch or dinner, seven days a week — for corporate events, weddings, or other celebrations or gatherings.
217 Carrall Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2J2 | 604.568.1701 | labattoir.ca