We sat down with Executive Chef Albert Tran of Alouette Bistro at Executive Hotel Le Soleil in Vancouver, British Columbia. Alouette and Le Soleil are a perfect pairing. Alouette borrows its culinary philosophies from the enduring dishes and methods of classic French bistros and invigorates them utilizing West Coast flavors.

alouette bistro vancouver reviews — Alouette Bistro at Hotel Le Soleil in Vancouver, BC | Credit: Josh Neufeld Photography

Dishes like Duck Cassoulet and Steak Frites remain loyal to their French roots but are redesigned with flavors that showcase the beauty and variety of British Columbia. As you enter Alouette Bistro, no detail is overlooked. The skilled staff strives to elevate your dining experience with a level of hospitality equal to the finest around the world.

Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

My morning routine starts with a much-needed caffeine boost — a double shot of espresso with almond milk. Then, it's all about getting my two kids fed and ready for their day ahead at either school or daycare. Once they're sorted, I gather myself and head out to drop them off before making my way to Alouette. Upon arriving at the restaurant, I make the rounds to greet my team, ensuring everyone is prepared and motivated for the day ahead.

I touch base with my sous chefs and cooks to review our progress and plan for the following day, whether it's orders or prep work. It's essential for me to leave on a positive note, ensuring the team recognizes my departure and is empowered to keep things running smoothly in my absence.

Do you have any awards or achievements that you are you most proud of?

One of my proudest achievements is participating in the Gold Medal Plates competition in both 2015 and 2016, where our team secured a remarkable 3rd place finish in 2016. This national competition is highly esteemed throughout Canada, and the opportunity to showcase our culinary talents on such a prestigious platform was truly rewarding.

Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

Thomas Keller stands out as a significant source of inspiration for me. His dedication to mastering fundamental techniques and his meticulous approach to ingredients have greatly influenced my culinary journey.

To aspiring chefs, I would emphasize the importance of honing your skills, prioritizing quality ingredients, and maintaining a relentless pursuit of excellence in every dish you create.

What do you typically cook at home for yourself or your family?

When it comes to cooking at home for myself and my family, I opt for simplicity and ease, especially considering the preferences of my kids. Therefore, my go-to meals often include pasta bolognese or mac ‘n’ cheese, which are both comforting and straightforward to prepare. Additionally, simple tacos or cheese pizza are always big hits in our household, offering a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience with minimal cleanup for my wife and I.

What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?

I definitely feel like there’s a growing interest in global flavors and regional cuisines, inspiring chefs like myself to experiment with bold spices, unique ingredients, and fusion techniques to create exciting and culturally diverse dishes.

What’s that strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?

One of the most intriguing culinary combinations I've experienced has to be a dessert featuring foie gras, beets and chocolate. Surprisingly, the blend of savory foie gras with the earthy sweetness of beets and the richness of chocolate created a truly unforgettable flavor profile. It's a dish that certainly stands out in my memory and left a lasting impression.

What’s your Instagram handle so that readers can follow you?

You can follow alouetteyvr.

What cocktail or beverage do you enjoy most?

I take great pleasure in sipping on a classic Kir Royale. Its elegant combination of crème de cassis and Champagne perfectly complements the richness of French cuisine. The effervescence of the Champagne dances on the palate, making it the ideal aperitif to start a memorable dining experience.

Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?

Cooking for a celebrity for the first time was a pivotal moment for me, as it happened early in my career when I had just entered my first “real kitchen.” The restaurant was a popular spot downtown, and when David Adjey, a renowned chef and television personality, came in for dinner, I couldn't believe my luck. As a shy young cook eager to make my mark in the industry, it was a surreal experience to have someone I admired dining on my creations.

Having followed his work and owning a couple of his cookbooks, seeing him enjoy my food felt like meeting a rockstar in the culinary world. It was a moment I'll always treasure, inspiring me to strive for excellence in every dish I create.

Tell our readers why they should visit Alouette Bistro?

Readers should visit Alouette if they want an unforgettable culinary experience, where West Coast influenced timeless French dishes await in a cozy room adorned with European touches and décor. Whether you're savoring a classic Coq au Vin or delighting in our locally sourced seafood prepared with a French finesse, our commitment to exceptional quality and warm hospitality ensures that every moment spent in our charming 2 storey bistro will be memorable.

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