History
Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House in Vancouver, BC, is named after Seraphim “Joe” Fortes, a beloved figure in Vancouver history. Seraphim “'Joe” Fortes was a former sailor, originally from Barbados and later Liverpool, and a legendary figure in Vancouver's early history. After moving to the city in 1885, he worked as a bartender at the Sunnyside Hotel on Maple Tree Square in Gastown, then became a fixture at English Bay Beach, where he lived in a small cottage, acted as an unofficial security guard, and taught hundreds of children to swim. The city appointed this burly, friendly man, who had been a competitive swimmer in England, as its first official lifeguard in the early 20th century. When he died in 1922, Vancouver held the longest funeral procession in the city for Joe. Even in the 21st century, Vancouverites remember him with a monument near the site of his home, a branch of the Vancouver Public Library, and our restaurant, which was named after him when we opened in 1985, one hundred years after his arrival in Canada. The restaurant is characterized by being warm and welcoming, their hospitality creates an unforgettable dining experience for guests, all the dishes they prepare are made with the finest local ingredients.
The main dining room features a horseshoe-shaped oyster bar. This large room features large, cozy booths, perfect for hosting high-end lunches or dinners, as well as intimate dinner parties.
On the upper floor, diners enjoy a bird's-eye view where they can observe the live musical entertainment taking place on the lower floor.
In the restaurant you will find a wine room where you can enjoy a discreet atmosphere where you can enjoy an intimate lunch or a private corporate celebration accompanied by our best SMITH MONTPETIT wines.
The more casual side of Joe's is experienced in the bistro and bar area, where locals and out-of-towners alike mingle, enjoying live music.
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Gallery
