Along the main village square in the heart of Whistler Village, Araxi is a gourmet institution that befits a big city-dining credo in contrast to the mostly mountain-minded dining scene of this Canadian resort town. A glass doorway opens to a hostess podium that sorts visitors to the bar and main restaurant through a raw bar arranged in elaborate presentations of Northwestern seafood and shellfish.<br /> <br />A stylish space of earthy colors is arranged in comfy club chairs and long banquette that runs the width of the room with more casual barstool-style dinner service also available in the bar. Service is youthful but professional, a ski town blend of snowboarders by day and waiters by night that share in conversation but also never forget to serve on the right and replace the napkin when it falls on the floor. <br />
The Food
Meals begin with fresh-baked breads and Parmesan crisps followed by multi-tiered towers of fresh raw seafood including oysters, crab claws, lobster and shrimp. Small plates include a sensational heirloom tomato salad when in season with goat cheese and basil sorbet, a duck liver parfait with pear chutney and sablefish risotto with Yukon gold potato chips. A seasonal main course menu includes Fraser Valley free run chicken with prosciutto, prime beef tenderloin with button mushrooms and Lingcod with crispy potato croquette as well as chef presentations of the occasional fish or game specialty.
Last Word
You’ll want to make a reservation prior to arriving to Whistler, as Araxi fills up quickly during winter ski season. If booked, try to arrive after 9pm and opt for a seat in the first-come-first seated bar area.
