After attending the Kamei Royale opening event, myself, a few other food bloggers and our +1’s ventured to Chewies for some post-event. In attendance was Kristina (Drunken Noms), David (Picky Diner), Hanson (Nosh and Nibble) and Jess and Phil (Domo is Craving). Chewies is conveniently located right across Kamei Royale on West Hastings and is open till late.
Lively and Inviting
While I have been to the Chewies Kitsilano location before, it was my first time at this Coal Harbour one. It was around 9 pm on a week night and the atmosphere at Chewies Coal Harbour was still bustling and lively. Near the entrance, I noticed an interesting brass instrument family decor piece hanging from the ceiling.
There is a variety of seating including booths, at the bar, dining tables for two or more, and high top tables. Our party of 8 got seated at one of the larger tables.
What We Tried
Some of the other bloggers were still hungry after the Kamei Royale event so they ordered more substantial menu items. My +1 and I were certainly sushi-ed out from the event, so we were in the mood for dessert. I was actually intrigued by the fact that Chewies’ focus on New Orleans inspired soul food translated to their dessert items as well. We ordered the bacon bourbon brûlée ($8) and the flourless chocolate cake ($8).
The bacon bourbon brûlée was certainly not your regular crème brûlée. Presentation-wise, the dessert was very interesting with the two orange-infused shortbread cookies, a cape gooseberry and two half-strawberries garnishes. The brûlée came in a shallow dish rather than a traditional ramekin which was slightly misleading in terms of the amount of creme brûlée you get. I thought that the custard was decently rich in flavor and creamy in texture. It was also slightly firm but not runny. However, for $8, I think it is overpriced crème brûlée with fancy garnishes.
The highlight of the flourless chocolate cake was the spiced red wine poached pear which gave it a nice sweet and spicy kick. The chocolate cake itself had quite a rich, dense, fudgie consistency. Interesting flavours but nothing to inspire me to reorder it in the future.
Overall Impression of Chewies’ Desserts
Chewies had some creative takes by putting a Cajun spin on “regular” desserts. Flavours were interesting but the desserts seem expensive for what you get at $8. I would prefer heading to Bella Gelateria for some gelato for $6 a scoop. Rating: 3/5
Website: www.chewies.ca