Chambar

Chambar is a terrific location to meet up with friends, have a few appetizers, drink a few too many beers, and conclude with a heaping plate of delicious mussels. The Suffering Bastard is a Glenlivet and gin-based drink that was formerly offered to British troops stationed in Egypt, and there's a huge range of Belgian beer here, as well as drinks that highlight the menu's Moroccan inspirations. Cognac, port, Curacao, fruit juices, and rosewater blend in the El Morocco Deux.

Braised lamb shanks with figs, honey, and cinnamon served in a classic North African tagine, for example, are a homage to Morocco. But it's the moules frites that steal the show: mussels and fries, a famous Belgian combination. The bivalves are cooked in one of three base sauces: plump and soft, never stringy or rough; their favorite is the Coquotte, a rich mixture of white wine, cream, and smoked bacon lardons.

Location: 568 Beatty St, Vancouver BC V6B 2L3

Website: www.chambar.com