Vancouver is losing another longtime eatery.

Toptable Group’s West Restaurant + Bar (2881 Granville Street) has announced it will close down at the end of December when its lease expires, after operating for nearly 20 years.

The South Granville dining establishment is a popular spot in the arts and shopping neighbourhood, particularly among theatergoers looking for a pre and post-show drink and bite.

Its upscale menu features Pacific Northwest dishes, and offers brunch items, pre-fixe tasting menus, as well as seasonal specials.

Many notable local chefs have had stints at West, including David Hawksworth, Thierry Busset, Sabrine Dhaliwal, Quang Dang, David Gunawan, and more.

“West has been so honoured to play such an integral role in the city’s vibrant restaurant community,” Michael Doyle, president of Toptable Group, said in a press statement. “We are proud of, and grateful to, all of the amazing men and women who have contributed to our success including being named Vancouver Magazine’s Restaurant of the Year.” 

A series of collaborative alumni dinners will take place leading up to West’s imminent closure, led by executive chef Bobby Milheron and restaurant director Owen Knowlton. These special menus will celebrate the well-loved dishes that have been created at the restaurant over the years.

West’s last dinner service will take place on December 31, 2019.

Toptable Group’s expanding roster of dining venues include Whistler’s Araxi Restaurant and Oyster Bar, the Cellar by Araxi, and Il Caminetto; Vancouver’s CinCin Ristorante, Blue Water Café, Elisa, and Thierry Café; and the soon-to-open Oceans in New York.