School’s In
Nestled within historic Chinatown, is a small multiple award winning French country restaurant. Co-owners Sommelier (wine steward), Marc Morrison and Chef Sean Brennan have combined their talents since 2001 to provide diners with a savoury epicurean experience. The term “brasserie” is defined as an unpretentious restaurant that serves simple hearty food and a variety of drink. “L’école" means the schoolhouse in French and together, the name of the restaurant is an ode to the history of the building that was once a Chinese school.

Hip, Casual, Fun
This intimate and cosy restaurant comfortably seats about 38 people between the dining tables and a slate topped bar. The décor boasts 14-feet ceilings, dark stained hardwood floors and white linen tablecloths for a classic French bistro atmosphere. The chalkboards positioned high above the bar display a collection of French wines and feature dinner items to muse over.

Seasonal Menus
The menu reflects ingredients that are available depending on the season. It also changes daily since most of the produce and meats come from local farms that practice eco-friendly agriculture. Some beloved favourites however include Steak-Frites featuring a choice of an 8 or 12 oz Sirloin or a 10 oz NY Striploin. The endive salad is another popular dish as well as the oysters and mussels. Meals are wonderfully presented and serving sizes are sure to please any diner wanting to appreciate the flavour of food.

Wine for the Tasting
The Sommelier daily wine list takes the lead set by Chef Brennan's menu. Most of the wine selections are French but there is also a selection of wines from the Pacific Northwest. Non-sparkling varieties are available by the glass as long as at least two glasses of the same wine is ordered. At the Brassiere “l'école, food and wine go hand in hand. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are able to guide you to the perfect pairing.