A new restaurant opening is creating a buzz. Jeff Park and Pat Allan, who between them have more than 20 years at Araxi in Whistler under their belt, have teamed up to open The Salted Vine in the former location of The Ruddy Duck downtown.
We have some great spots to grab a bite here in town, but I know I am not the only one who has longed for some Pacific Northwest dining by a French-trained chef. Park’s vision is small-plates, family-style dining as opposed to courses, with no white tablecloths to be found.
The restaurant plans to serve Pemberton beef, vegetables from surrounding farms, charcuterie and cheeses. Some of the more interesting items include rillettes (pâté made of minced pork or other light meat, seasoned and combined with fat) and house-smoked duck breast. They will be fresh baking their own bread and will also sell it and their house-brined olives to go.
Both Park and Allan live in Squamish. One day after fishing, they went for a beer and the vision was born. A major reason for transitioning into opening a restaurant here is to be closer to their families. Their wives, both named Lisa, have been instrumental in them pursuing their passion and setting up shop.
Allan has a diploma in wine and will be presenting a solid wine program with 16 to 20 wines by the glass. Although The Salted Vine will be kid-friendly and offer a “children’s menu” of sorts, they are offering an adult-oriented environment with a cocktail bar and an oyster program. They look forward to providing a dining experience not currently available in town so Squamish residents no longer have to drive to Whistler or Vancouver.
The Salted Vine will be open for dinner to start, then begin offering brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and the plan is to eventually open for lunch. Commuters will see there will also be a to-go menu.
The passion in Park and Allan is palpable. Currently they are hoping to be open by the end of July but are waiting on a development permit from the district.
