The Oakwood Canadian Bistro

General Manager Tristan Young describes The Oakwood Canadian Bistro as “food forward.”  In 2011, Mike Shea bought the restaurant, which organically evolved into a showcase of Canadian cuisine, reflecting the regional tastes of various locales.

Today, The Oakwood sources its meat and produce from suppliers across Canada, bringing in duck from Quebec, beef from Alberta, and seafood from the Pacific Northwest. The food offerings are creative and stylized.  Dishes might be simple in design, but are a labour of skill, ingenuity and love. The restaurant blends elegant dishes with a casual attitude. Menus even include a mini dictionary on the side, a tasteful but casual way to detail the more unusual offerings, without people having to ask.

Dishes change on a seasonal basis and are served tapas-style, and some of the big hitters are surprising - such as the veggie-friendly sautéed kale salad with Brussels sprouts and cauliflower.  “It’s so good, some people order it a second time in one sitting” Tristan says, although he admits that he indulges daily in the burger, which has achieved city-wide fame.

Chef Ryan Murphy joined the team in 2015.  He updates the menu seasonally and remains flexible with closing times. Hours run Tuesdays through Sundays from 5:00 pm until late. Weekend brunches are also super popular, “I love brunches, they’re so busy, and the kitchen is so on point.” Tristan shakes his head in awe. “And the banana bread French toast is awesome!”