Summer evenings in Vancouver are already incredible, made even better with lobster, wine and a front-row seat by the marina. I recently had the pleasure of dining at Provence Marinaside for the 10th return of their annual Lobster Festival, and it’s simply too good to keep to myself.

A Scenic Patio and Coastal Vibe

Located along Marinaside Crescent in Yaletown and overlooking the False Creek Seawall and Quayside Marina, the restaurant’s summer patio is now open with ocean air, a light breeze and some of the best people- and boat-watching in the city.

We started our evening with a glass of prosecco from the restaurant’s extensive wine list. It was the perfect way to ease into the night, soak up the vibe, and go back and forth over which dishes to choose. As often happens at Provence, we ran into friends who were also there to celebrate Lobster Fest.

Lobster Festival Menu at Provence Marinaside

Lobster Fest runs through June and was curated by Owner and Executive Chef Jean-Francis Quaglia. The three-course prix fixe menu is for $89 per person, featuring Canadian Atlantic lobster. Guests can also add a two-course wine pairing for $36, with selections from Benjamin Bridge, Nova Scotia’s multi-award-winning sparkling wine house.

We both started with the Chilled Lobster Salad with heirloom tomato, fennel, avocado, and a lemon tarragon vinaigrette that was bright, balanced and incredibly delicious.

 

The alternative appetizer option is the Lobster Bisque, which I’ve had at Provence before. It looked as silky and rich as ever, and I’ll probably be back for a bowl once the Vancouver rain returns. A friend (who happens to be a chef!) had it that night and said it was incredible.

For the main, I ordered the Lobster Thermidor, baked with a creamy dijon and mushroom sauce. I can never resist a dish with mushrooms, and this one did not disappoint. The dish was absolute perfection in every bite.

My dinner date had the Whole Lobster Provençal, which was just as delicious. Both dishes came with seasonal vegetables and a side of five grain rice, for a satisfying, balanced, and beautifully plated meal.

 

 

Both the Lobster Bisque and Whole Lobster Provençal happen to be gluten-free, which is a great option for anyone with dietary needs. It’s not something you often find with dishes like bisque, which are usually thickened with bread.

We wrapped up the meal with the Summer Berry Trifle, a light and layered dessert with roasted pistachios and sherry cream. It was fresh, not overly sweet, and a perfect way to end a rich meal.

Wine Pairings from Nova Scotia’s Benjamin Bridge

Wine Director Joshua Carlson paired the dishes with selections from Nova Scotia’s Benjamin Bridge. The wines brought a crisp contrast to the richness of the lobster. The sparkling wine to start was bright and celebratory, while the Tidal Bay blend and rosé were aromatic and well matched to the dishes. Joshua believes in pairing what grows together, and that philosophy came through in every glass.

A Date Night Dining Experience in Yaletown

The service at Provence is always strong, and this visit was no exception. The staff were warm, knowledgeable and attentive. Our server, Michael, deserves a special shoutout. He was friendly, welcoming and brought great energy to the evening.

Whether you’re a seafood fan, a wine lover or looking for a great date idea, Provence Marinaside’s Lobster Festival is an ideal choice. With waterfront views, seasonal dishes and thoughtful pairings, it’s an experience worth savouring. Bon appétit!

Lobster Fest runs through June 30 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m

📍 Provence Marinaside, 1177 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver

🍽️ Three-course menu: $89/person

🍷 Optional wine pairing: $36 (two courses)