Kevin and Kevin- A Bright Oasis with a Taste of Everything
By Maddy Cristall
Kevin and Kevin is the latest addition to Vancouver’s ever-growing Chinatown. Walking into the bright, whimsical yet artistically refined space is an instant refresher. Hanging chairs float from side to side, geometric tables are thoughtfully placed throughout the room. Natural light generously pours inside, the bright walls shine brightly and the furniture is worthy of being in a contemporary art museum. Even though the restaurant was clearly built on a specific artistic vision, nothing about it feels rigid. It is seamlessly welcoming, fresh and inspiring. It certainly stands out in the hub of Chinatown. The new restaurant and cafe is constantly packed with guests who feel welcome to immerse themselves for as long as they please into this truly wonderful experience. The juice bar/ cafe/ restaurant/ cocktail lounge does explore a lot of different culinary avenues yet their menu is completely comprehensive.
By day, Kevin and Kevin serve house-made juice and smoothie bar. The beautifully served and bottled nectar is the stuff of gods that could cure satan’s hangover. Each one is playfully titled such as- The Basic Bitch, The Pink Lady and Hawai 5’0. Their coffee, brunch and lunch items are bonafide stunners to boot. Everything is made of fresh and nourishing ingredients that leave you feeling ready for anything. The well throughout menu avoids the hippie slop often found on healthier brunch menus as they do the cardiac arresting calorie carnival served on top of waffles.
By night, the dazzlingly bright room turns into an intimate tapas and cocktail bar. Each dish is comfort food cultivated in an elegant and absolutely delicious way. They serve classics with a twist such as vegan nachos, pulled pork sliders and the otherworldly Spanish Tortilla. They also offer delectables such as life-changing lamb chops, maple glazed pork belly, vegan scallops and the Mediterranean infused shakshuka. Each is served beautifully and with notable attention to every single detail. Then there are the ultramodern cocktails, all named astutely named such as- The Poet, The Dancer and The Thinker. Based on their names, you feel as if you know the cocktails and juice personally which is truly how it should be. Then there is the organic wine, local beer menu and classic cocktails.
As Stefon from SNL would say- This place has everything; swinging hammocks, electrifying coffee, innovative cocktails, juice and smoothies to help with the consumption of said cocktails, excellent brunch, wonderful staff, happy hour, dignified plates and above all- a wonderful place to spend your time and enjoy yourself. It is clear Kevin and Kevin was built on an affinity for food, bev and the experience of dining with people we love, or even just like. We all need a haven to let the world wash away during the throes of 2020. Kevin and Kevin has everything you want and more.
