CRU - Vancouver

Cru sits at the bustling Granville and Broadway intersection, but when you step through its doors you leave the hectic rush of the city behind you. In fact, there might as well be a sign at the door saying, leave your troubles at the door outside. From the subtle earth tones to the soft music playing in the background, Cru seems designed to soothe.

The main dining room at Cru is a long corridor with a mirrored wall and soft lighting emanating from tableside candles and rectangular lighting fixtures. The service is similarly subdued: helpful and intelligent but not overly eager.

The fare at Cru manages to do what so few upper level restaurants do; it is elegant and exciting yet remains unpretentious and homey. Take the herb crusted lamb loin on the prix fixe menu for example.