umours that Jean-Georges Vogerichten would be trasporting his culinary genius to Vancouver have been confirmed. The Michelin starred chef has officially announced – in the guise of a not-so-subtle press release blitz – that he will in fact open MARKET by Jean-Georges" in the Shangri-La hotel. Already a city known for its cuisine, the addition of Vogerichten - along with the recent announcement that Daniel Boulud will helm DB Modern Bistro on Broadway - most definitely guarantees Vancouver street cred as a major culinary capital.

When it opens (tentatively slated for January 24, 2009), MbyJG will offer a menu that will showcase much of British Columbia’s local ingredients, touched by global influences that Vongerichten is known for. Vongerichten his looking forward to working with westcoast seafood and meats, as he is well known for his signature ‘vibrant cuisine’ which uses vegetable and fruit flavours to liven dishes to their fullest potential.

You might not necessarily get to chat him up too much — which will be obvious as soon as you see the intense focus and urgent pace of Jean-Georges kitchen staff

The dining space - located in the sixty-one foot tower at Thurlow and Georgia (Ki, David Aisenstat’s restaurant will be located in the lower level) - will have four separate dining areas, including a main room that will seat 84, two private dining rooms and a 30-seat casual bistro. The space will also have outdoor seating for 60 and a bar where 30 or so guests can float about. Look forward to an amazing space sparing no expense in its design.

You might not necessarily get to chat him up too much — which will be obvious as soon as you see the intense focus and urgent pace of Jean-Georges kitchen staff — but watching the ebb and flow of dinner service, with the gratification of eating the end results, could be truly memorable. MARKET by Jean-Georges really will be something to see. -C.A.

1128 Georgia Street West