Richmond has been getting a lot of global attention lately for its expansive Asian food scene (thanks, New York Times!) but a new concept opening up in the Vancouver suburb is taking things to the next level with their cafe-fine dining hybrid.
Origo Club takes its name from a Beijing Club, and the root word “origin.” There’s a lot going on in the multi-room space on a rapidly expanding sections of River Road at the northwest corner of Richmond, including not only the day-to-night dining area, but also a private dining room tucked out of view as well as an adjacent gallery and event space.
In the daytime, Origo Club is all about coffee and tea, enjoyed cafe-style in the corner space, with pastries and light bites. They take coffee and tea quite seriously at Origo; in addition to a robust pour-over selection, baristas will create espresso-based drinks on the state-of-the-art Modbar brewing system, making Origo Club the fourth place in BC to bring this gear on board.
Currently tea is served by the pot in a variety of styles, however plans are underway to launch a stylish afternoon tea service in the near future using custom serving ware.
Tea is also making an appearance in a different form over in the gallery, where the current exhibit features hand-made ceramic tea pots and service sets that are not only breathtaking, but also functional–and for sale. A series of hand-painted Tibetan Buddhist thangka (scrolls) are also on display, many of which feature real gold in the paint.
That meld of restrained opulence and purpose is mirrored in the dining room, and on Origo’s evening menu. The food is French-inspired fine dining, and comes from a tight menu of tailored and elegant starters and entrees.
Origo Club’s Managing Partner is Woody Wu, who has brought together a team of industry veterans to run the front and back of house. Head Chef is David Pan (Bishop’s) who gets an assist from Sous Chef Tony Hua of Toronto’s Cava.
Their dishes are beautifully composed and showcase top quality ingredients, like the expertly prepared Magret de Canard (five-spice duck with orange glazed endive, black rice, carrot puree, and sea buckthorn jus).
Familiar French dishes, like shellfish and frites and beef tartare are on the menu, along with contemporary touchstones, like a French-fuelled kale salad. For dessert, think classics like an espresso-tinged creme brulee or a cheese plate.
Wu, a respected sommelier and wine consultant, is putting his talents to work in the wine department for Origo Club, where you’ll find a carefully curated wine list centred on France, plus a selection of Barons de Rothschild Champagne. Additionally, Origo Club is showcasing cocktails, and a line-up of saké and whiskies from around the globe.
“We’re excited to open the doors this week and begin sharing our passion for showcasing the very best food and wine, coffee and tea and art exhibits available,” says Wu.
Origo Club will open to the public on Thursday, June 28. They are located at 110-6888 River Road in Richmond, and will be open 10 am to 11 pm Tuesday to Saturday. Gallery hours are 10 am to 7 pm Tuesday to Saturday.
