Commercial Drive has always had its own rhythm. A little gritty, a little romantic, and full of places that feel lived in. So when I heard about Violeté, a new European-inspired bistro opening at 1380 Commercial Drive, I was curious.
I actually got to attend the opening with Michael, and it felt like one of those nights where you look around and realize how small and connected Vancouver really is. So many familiar faces from the food and hospitality scene, all in one room, genuinely excited about a new spot. That energy matters. You can feel when a restaurant is being welcomed in.
And honestly, Violeté fits right in.
Violeté comes from Reuben Major and the team behind Van Urban Hospitality, the same group responsible for Havana, The Flamingo Room, Vancouver Urban Winery, and Belgard Kitchen.
But this one feels different.
You can tell it’s more personal. It pulls from years of travel through Spain and Italy, but not in a way that feels overly themed or forced. It’s more like little pieces of those experiences have been layered into the space and menu.
The Vibe Is Exactly What You Want It to Be
The first thing I noticed walking in was the vibe.
It’s warm and really inviting. The kind of place where you settle in without thinking about it. Designed by Lemon Lane Interiors, the space brings together archways, textured walls, greenery, and soft, earthy tones that make everything feel relaxed yet elevated. You can picture it already: A long lunch that turns into an afternoon drink. A quick glass of wine that becomes dinner. It has that easy flow.
It doesn’t try too hard. It just works.
Cocktails that Hit the Spot
I’ll be honest. One of my highlights of the night was the cocktails.
The blood orange and basil spritz was exactly what I want in a drink. Refreshing, a little citrusy, but with enough strength that you actually feel it. Not watered down, not overly sweet. Just balanced and really well done. I’d go back for that alone.
The kitchen is led by Andrew Hounslow and Andrew Kelly, and you can see that mix of comfort and technique come through in the menu. Think branzino a la plancha, risotto nero, and wood-fired dishes coming out of a forno oven that ties everything back to those European roots.
It’s elevated, but still feels like food you actually want to eat.
The beverage program, led by Alexa Greenman and Taylor Gardiner (formerly of Bar Corso), leans into Spanish and Italian wines, with some strong BC bottles in the mix.
Plan Your Visit to Violeté
Commercial Drive doesn’t need another flashy restaurant. It needs places that feel like they belong. Violeté does that. It’s thoughtful without being pretentious. It’s polished but still relaxed. And most importantly, it feels like somewhere you’ll actually come back to, not just try once.
Address: 1380 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC
Website: violetekitchen.com
Instagram: @violetekitchen
Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Violeté feels like the kind of place that grows into the neighbourhood quickly.
Good food, strong drinks, beautiful space, and a room full of people who actually want to be there.
That’s always a good sign.
Mary in Vancity 
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