Taking over that long-abandoned spot just north of Broadway on the East side of Main, Tempest Steakhouse takes advantage of the lack of quality steakhouses in the area by positioning itself as the neighbourhood steakhouse powerhouse. Smart move. But rather than vying for an old-school steakhouse look and feel (Pinky’s and Morton’s for two now-closed examples), this outpost is overtly relaxed. Perhaps too relaxed. The no-jacket-required ethos translates to flat-screens (ouch), polished wood furniture and the walls covered in a designer-esque rope maché. Relaxed is fine. But we tend to get nervous when it reaches sports-bar-eria, a la Tempest.
Once you get past the décor, you'll find that Tempest’s food line-up is quite standard too, with a menu that boasts starters like calamari, chicken wings and panko dusted tiger prawns. Looking for small bites? The plate of tenderloin sliders ($11) is five grilled tenderloin baby burgers fixed up with horseradish mayo. The bacon-wrapped tenderloin ($12) is plated with a dijon mushroom demi glaze. For mains, of course there's myriad steak options. But there's also a pistachio-crusted halibut ($20) in a cream sauce and roasted potatoes. Free-range buffalo short ribs ($19), braised in an ale and bourbon sauce. Otherwise, there is nothing terribly innovative; it’s basic fare.
Beer drinkers have six on tap to choose from, and a decent bottle selection, but the wine list is very basic. With Jonas Danielson as GM, perhaps the cocktails list will expand. Danielson was previously behind the bar at Morton’s, where he was known for his infused vodkas and classic concoctions. But even with that potential, Tempest is just a friendly, no-frills steakhouse at heart. It's a good place to know about when you're in the neighborhood and a pint, a big booth, and a badass steak are all you really need.
At a Glance
Oh and to top it all off, our waitress was awful and absolutely useless.
I wouldn't mind coming here again, but with all the options offered around Vancouver, I would look into other steak spots first.
I wouldn't mind coming here again, but with all the options offered around Vancouver, I would look into other steak spots first.
Excellent steak and service. The rest of the food was ... ok. Most of the menu items (that weren't steak) were served - dare I say - too rich and gamey for me? ... A bite of the ladie's burger was fine... nothing that stood out very much...
I have recommended this restaurant to several people, almost all of whom have enjoyed it. The only suggestion I would make is that the wine list could be more complex.
Amazing job Tempest! we will be back!!
this place should be called a Bar and Grill, great if you want to watch a game or just sit and have a drink. But dining out it isn't.
Would try again but maybe after they work some of there issues out.
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