trendy tapas

peter cheng

Size matters. Well, at least that’s what they say. But at Bin 941 and 942, there seems to be a defiance of the norm. In a world where bigger is usually better, Gord Martin’s revolutionary tapas parlours prove small things can prevail.

When Bin 941 emerged nearly ten years ago in the heart of downtown Vancouver, business boomed so rapidly that Bin 942 opened just a year later on the other side of False Creek. Perhaps best described as a radical, culinary maestro, Martin single-handedly established the trend of serving small plates on the West Coast.

The Bins are essentially personified versions of their celebrated owner. The interior décor itself is a piece of art. Funky and eccentric, the walls are filled with artifacts like lava lamps and replica hunting trophies that wouldn’t otherwise complement each other. Though each of the Bins seat only 40 to 50 people, the smaller parlour-style space offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.

Armed with an innovative and adventurous frame of mind, Martin creates dishes that are simply exquisite. Ingredients are fresh and locally produced, and crowd favourites include the East West Crab Cakes, the Angus Beef Wellington and the ever-so-tender Alaskan Black Cod. Try the Kobe Beef Carpaccio. Lightly seared with white pepper and served with salted white truffle oil popcorn, the combination is peculiar yet divine. These tapas are small, and at $15 or less, customers can afford to try a variety of different items. No cocktails are served, as the point is to have a glass of their award-winning wines to complete the experience.

Affordable and upbeat with good eats – The Bins are not only a hangout for the young and the hip, but also the young and the hip at heart.

Bin 941, 941 Davie Street, Vancouver (www.bin941.com, 604.683.1246)
Bin 942, 1521 West Broadway, Vancouver (604.734.9421)