Observatory Launches its Summer Menu

North Vancouver, BC July 15, 2008 Chef Dino L. Gazzola launches a new summer-inspired menu at the Observatory Restaurant. Summer on Grouse Mountain brings spectacular late-evening sunsets, warm alpine breezes and tummy rumbling temptations at the Peak of Vancouver. Inspired by the bounty of local and organic ingredients, this summer’s menu brings together a spectacular culmination of flavours.
 
“There is a wealth of local ingredients available at this time of year,” says Gazzola. “Summer in BC is an exciting time for me and I have lots to work with. I’m really pleased with the depth of ingredients available and how they translate into my menu. The ability to change the menu seasonally is important to me and while there might be some similar concepts, this menu is quite different than our Spring menu. I look forward to feedback from our local and visiting guests.”
 
With a few items highlighted below, it is clear that the most challenging aspect of the dining experience will be choosing your food. A Chef’s menu is available with complementing wine pairings selected by Sommelier,  Brent Fraser.

 
Appetizers
 
Marinated Mackerel & Mackerel Tartare
carrot & blood orange emulsion, caraway seed cracker, micro greens, pickled onion
 
Oxtail & Madiran Consommé
braised pig’s ear, scallop raviolinni, Chanterelle mushrooms
 
Local Oysters
Sherry mignonette, uni & vegetable caviar, lemon chive fondant
 
Glorious Garnish Organic Greens
goat’s milk yogurt dressing, poached kumquats, pecans, Banyuls vinaigrette
 
Wild Sockeye Salmon & Leek Fondue Roulade
arugula vichyssoise, celeriac & yellow pepper sauces
 
Quail Breast & Blueberry Conserve
crème fraîche corn cake, dried black olive, beet greens
 
Entrées
 
Magret of Barbary Duck
caramelized fennel, spinach, pommes fondant, green peppercorn sabayon
for two: $75
 
Saddle of Rabbit with Boudin Noir & Cèpes
pomme purée, fava beans, licorice root jus
 
Organic Beef Tenderloin
black truffle jus, thyme oil, oxtail turnip crisp
 
Scallops & Roasted Pears
parsnip purée, daube of squid, parsley sauce
 
Ahi Tuna
new potatoes, roasted castrati, tomato petals, chorizo, cipollini
 
Free Range Egg Pappardelle & White Truffle Butter
zucchini ribbons, roasted squash, sage, Parmigiano-Reggiano, walnut oil

 
The Observatory Restaurant and Altitudes Bistro are members of Green Table Network and the Oceanwise Program. For full menu details, please click here.
 
With a menu of mountaintop activities available all summer long, make a day of it. Your General Admission to the Grouse Mountain skyride and most mountain-top activities is included with advanced reservations at 604.980.9311 or through Open Table (opentable.com). 

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Andrea Scott
Manager, Public Relations & Communications

Direct:	604.998.4255
Cell:	604.551.3839
Email:	ascott@grousemountain.com