The Scene
Call it the little bistro that roared, but few would ever assume that this quaint, Italian-style restaurant on Main St. features one of Vancouver’s busiest and most prolific stages. Inside, there are little round tables with nice plaid tablecloths, sedate paintings on the walls, and the pleasant aroma of pasta sauce and parmesan – in fact, understated is the predominant tone but in the corner is a little stage that features some of the best independent performers in town.

Listen to the Band
Maybe the scattering of classic records on the ceiling would give it away, but variety is the name of the game here. Everything from poetry to comedy to jazz and folk takes its turn depending on the night. But the Blues is where Cottage Bistro really hangs its hat, and their Saturday night blues blowouts and Sunday Soul Services are the best you’ll find in the Vancouver area. The weekly open mike night is popular, too, giving loyal locals the chance the stretch their talents with sometimes interesting, but always entertaining, results.

Don’t Forget To Eat
Though music has become the big draw here, the bistro is famous for cookin' up a wide selection of food. There’s something for everyone as the menu starts with standard bar favourites like wings, sandwiches and burgers and stretches out to exotic Thai seafood and stir fry specialties. Saturdays and Sundays mean brunch and Cottage Bistro is there with a wide selection of omelettes, salads and wraps. Whether you come for the entertainment or the food, you’ll end up coming back for both.