Farrar's Bistro

12514 NW 36th Ave, Vancouver
(360) 571-7005

Recent Reviews

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Brenda Gibson (Brenda Gibson)

Had a busy day and wanted to grab some takeout. Fish and chips sounded good and since Farrar's is in the neighborhood. Hubby and I decided to order there. We've been a few times in the past but this time was an utter disappointment. He had the meatloaf which was dry and pretty flavorless. My fish and chips were almost inedible. The french fries were horrible, gummy, over-salted. Even after I threw them in the air fryer to crisp them up, I couldn't eat them. Conversely, the fish was overcooked and extra greasy. I don't know if they've gotten a new chef but the quality has definitely gone way down. Not sure if we'll be back.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 3

DG

Food was fantastic, and the service was excellent!!!

Jean Horton

Wow this place is a gem. Very cozy inside with great food and their cocktails are made with a lot of care. We sat at the bar tonight, our first time in and we will absolutely be back.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

jd112300

Not like it used to be at all! Steak bites had no flavor and they were also very chewy.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 2

Service: 4

Lisa Canning

Today’s lunch at Farrar’s was delicious-as expected-but made extra special by the welcoming. attentive service by Angela. She made it as if we had dropped by her own home & made us so comfortable, she was hospitality incarnate.
Once I had the Coconut Shrimp-over a year ago- I can’t not order it! I had had the best I thought on Waikiki, but finally found the Stateside version here..with a chili sauce I could almost swill. The “side salad” I always accompany it with is a pile of delights, with the white vinaigrette it is a Chef’s kiss.
I have had the Bleu burger, which is topnotch, and my spouse had the cheeseburger and fries today which he thoroughly enjoyed. We actually picked this neighborhood because of a fee good eateries within walking distance; we ate here before buying our home! We were recalling the friends & family we have brought here, and we are happy this gem of a restaurant is here!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jim H

Local favorite. I had the meatloaf. Great meal with a slight smokey flavor that gives it that little bit of extra flair. Mashed potatoes are great also not just treated as a side but part of the meal.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Mark Raso

Food was fantastic. The bar offerings hit the mark. Good variety of liquors.Was pleased with a nice selection of rye whiskeys. Superb service. Our first time there and definitely will be back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jason Pfeifer

Excellent in every way but one: air-conditioning needs an upgrade or fix or something. Went on a hot afternoon and while it was not sweltering inside, it was not packed, but it was still quite warm. Just this side of uncomfortable. Food and service were excellent, tho.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Deviled Eggs

Elija Bandersnatch

Often as I wander around, this craving, this small persistent desire arises. It’s not as easy as wanting a taste, or a favorite place, it feels simple, but deep, a young sapling rooted solidly in nostalgia and watered by the passing years.

This little urge echoes around my mind as clear and direct as day. It is a string of memories tied to a kite, a whisper in my ear and it says sandwich. It says simple but profound, it says compact and easy to hold. It says hikes in the mountains of the rising mists, picnics in shaded spots by a clear moving creek and sitting with good friends.

I don’t know why it is so hard to find a good sandwich, the ingredients are simple, the acceptance nearly universal. They are one of those things that no matter where you come from, you recognize as, food.

They are one of those things that are made of basic common goods that add up to more than the sum of its parts, infinite variety created by cooks who know the secrets to life, artists who make beauty out of the mundane.

The world is full of subs and sliders, foot longs and open face, but getting a sandwich, which should be universal is surprisingly difficult.

So to the point, all I wanted was a sandwich and my complicated day’s route drops me close to the area. I suppose I have driven by Farrah’s Bistro 100 times, but this time I am caught in my migration like a traveling trout is caught by fisherman’s well made fly.

I liked the ambience, dark after the bright day, but not brooding or obscure. Old wood and open space make an alluring stage. The service was helpful and friendly, and I had a chance to talk briefly with someone I assume was an owner. A woman comfortable in her skin, carrying pride and confidence easily on her shoulders, with a direct and frank appearance.

The BLT was perfect. The very essence of taking a simple archetype and giving it a separate and subtle life of its own.
Like music made of few, but clever notes. Definitely a sandwich I order again.

The fries were almost good. They were not particularly crispy and seemed kind of chewy and dense. Obviously cut by hand and well seasoned, beautiful to look at, but somewhat sad in their execution. I wondered how these could be made to shine as brightly as the main attraction, a skilled support orchestra arranged around a loved soloist.

I took most of them home and threw them into the air fryer for my wife and liked them better reborn, crispy and somehow not as solid in the center. Normally a failing fry can drag a restaurant down, but they were not bad, just not right and rescued by the shining BLT.

Oh, and the iced tea seemed home made.

This place is off the beaten path, easy to miss or at least pass on by, but I can see it rooted deep in the small community. I would guess that the majority of customers are regulars and live locally.
Luckily I pass here often hope and hope to stop in again.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Jams

Glad we checked it out! Cute little bar with great options on sports to watch. Food was delicious! Can't wait to go back and try more. When in doubt, try the club sandwich!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Dick Monsen

Great little spot,quiet peaceful good food

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Betty Sue Morris

Great food; great service! What more can you ask for??

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Deviled Eggs, Chicken Piccata, Brisket, Cheeseburger, Mac and Cheese, Side House Salad

Erin Provost

I have been coming here ever since it opened. It reminds me of the show Cheers. There are many locals who frequent here and also patrons who go out of their way to dine or visit their awesome bar. The staff is always friendly, warm, personable and they all have a great sense of humor. I have never eaten a meal here that has been nothing less than delectable and delicious. Last night I had their grilled cheese sandwich for the first time, I added bacon and it was to die for! You must go!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

cheney palanuk

If you want comfort food, come here

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Erin Wriston

We ordered the swordfish delivered and it was absolutely fantastic!! Thank you!

Food: 5

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