Vancouver's WareHouse '23 Opens to the Delight of Vancouverites

Vancouver, Washington (you know, the city across the Columbia River from Portland) is up to big things.

Vancouver’s historic waterfront will soon be home to jobs, restaurants, shops, housing, a hotel and a park as new development reconnects 35 acres along the Columbia River to the city’s historic core. The Waterfront Development Project began with demolition of part of the Red Lion and the building of streets through the area linking with downtown.

In the hallway were posted old photos of the original port.

Yesterday, we experienced part of the development. Where the aging Red Lion at the Quay once welcomed travelers, a new restaurant and night spot, WareHouse '23 had opened at Terminal 1. The motel was still being re-purposed by the Port of Vancouver. 

 

The new WareHouse '23

The management of Beaches Restaurant, a riverside restaurant farther east, revamped the old Quay restaurant. After opening for dinner last week, WareHouse ’23 is now open 11 a.m. to midnight every day, with plans to add a Sunday brunch starting at 9 a.m. Aug. 7th. Minors are allowed before 9 p.m. (Source: Columbian)

 

There are still things you'll remember from the old Quay

There are still nautical vestiges of the old Quay. The mast and sails still loom over the bar. But the look is more simple and the menu, certainly an upgrade.

Simple decor and great views

We went for lunch. The vibe was fresh and new with a more bar-like feel. The view of the Columbia River and the I-5 Bridge was certainly the draw as diners asked for window tables. The restaurant, even though new, was full by noon. We arrived at 11:30 and were seated right away by the attentive staff.

 

Intriguing take on chowder

I wanted to try their Northwest-inspired cuisine so noticed a chowder. But this was different... it was a "Kife and Fork Chowder." It sounded hearty so I didn't add a salad. When the dish arrived, it was nicely presented in a bowl. Not the usual chowder, the bowl contained fried deep sea clams, yukon gratin and cured bacon in a creamy lobster sauce. The crisp clam strips were plated over small cubed vegetables. I couldn't really taste the bacon and the chowder was only lightly spiced but it was delicious and different. That dish alone was filling as a lunch option.

My friends enjoyed sampling the rich Double Baked Sweet Potato, the unique 1923 Fries, the Quinoa Kale Salad and the Shrimp Banh Mi sandwich. 

 

Kale Salad

Shrimp Banh Mi

Sweet Sweet Potato

1923 Fries

We concluded that the offerings were intriguing, delicious and filling. The pricing was reasonable.  The view was wonderful (how can you not love the mighty Columbia) and the staff did an excellent job. Perhaps a bit more zip to the sauces would enhance the dishes for those yearning for a more stimulating experience.

We're pleased that WareHouse '23 is open and decided to return one evening for a drink and appetizers and to watch the boats on the river and the traffic on the bridge. And, as WareHouse '23 moves forward, I'd love to see music during Happy Hour. I'm just not a late night person when it comes to entertainment!

A great step in the development of the waterfront area!

When You Go

Website
Phone: 360-750-7256
Address: 100 Columbia St., Vancouver, WA 98661