procne

Thank you all for the great suggestions! I'm definitely checking out Cru ("universally regarded as fantastic- in fact it sort of outshone the food at the wedding" sounds like what I'm looking for). Don't worry -- my normal cooking is almost always under non-extreme circumstances. (You'll just find me quoting Greek myth, not emulating....)

I have been given the opportunity to organize a rehearsal dinner for my brother's upcoming wedding in Vancouver. We are not from the area (we'll be coming up from Seattle). Although we've visited Vancouver several times, we aren't familiar with places that would accomodate this type of event. The wedding is happening the week after Christmas, and the rehearsal dinner is scheduled for a weeknight that week. Apparently there are going to be somewhere around 30-40 (I'm guessing closer to 40) people attending. The rehearsal is at Holy Rosary and most of the bridal party will be staying downtown on Robson. We're leaning towards a venue w/catering for flexibility, although if there is a place that has some reasonable food and a good (large) group atmosphere, that would be interesting. We would like to have quality food but will be going for a more casual atmosphere. Does anyone have any suggestions in Vancouver for a group this large, either a venue+caterer or a restaurant that would accommodate? Key priorities: -will handle up to 40 people -really good food -good atmosphere Good: -food that is special/unique/exemplary of Vancouver -casual dining is okay -different cuisines would be great, but the bride's family is not too adventurous -creative/different/interesting ideas welcomed Avoid: -The Spaghetti Factory (the suggestion from the bride's family) -anything likely to cause GI distress for the bridal party Currently, I have a few places/options suggested as possible choices: Restaurants Earl's -not sure they will accommodate 40 people; too casual/chain-like? -seems to have decent reputation for casual dining/food Sun Sui Wah -food might be too 'scary' for some of the bride's family -can accommodate large groups Venue + Catering Metropolitan Hotel (using Metropolitan hotel facilities/catering -- Diva at the Met) -buffet option; food will be decent -pricier? -- intus habes quem poscis [Ovid]