BONETA’S BRAND NEW DIGS

The award-winning Boneta lands a new location hidden in the nooks and crannies of Gastown.

When Boneta opened four years ago on the corner of Rough and Rougher in Gastown (ok, Carrall and Cordova), it seemed like an odd choice. But location be damned, the Boneta boys went on to win a string of awards, including being named Vancouver Magazine’s Best New Restaurant and one of En Route’s Best New Restaurants in Canada.

Boneta’s new location, tucked away in historic Gaoler’s Mews, is another interesting decision, as it’s not visible from Water St. or Carrall St. But hey, when did Boneta need a kick-ass location to be kick-ass?

Part of a heritage building redevelopment, the new spot is an 85-seat solarium complete with sliding glass doors and a 12-seat courtyard patio. While it’s hard to find a dud on the menu, Chef Jason Liezert’s skill truly shines when you take a few risks with your order. We made short work of a bowl of addictive octopus chips, surprisingly awesome chicken gizzards on toast, succulent rabbit with dandelion greens and a decadent chocolate mousse with candied bacon.

While the address is technically 12 Water St., the restaurant itself is actually nestled away between Blood Alley and Water St. (enter off Water St. between Caya and Coffeebar).

It’s a hidden gem, literally.

Boneta loves you. Make a reservation and they will love you even more.