Team behind top Vancouver tapas bar to open new seafood restaurant

The team behind the much-loved Mount Pleasant tapas bar Como Taperia is debuting a new concept in the city, this time with a focus on seafood.

Founders Shaun Layton and Frankie Harrington are preparing to open the doors to Como Ultramar, a restaurant inspired by their travels throughout Northern Spain.

“Ultramar is inspired by the places Frankie and I travel to often during our annual trips to Spain,” said Layton. “There will be a definite focus on the cuisine of Northern Spain, such as the seaside towns of the Basque Country, Cantabria, and Galicia, but also the old-school seafood bars of Madrid, the modern, playful seafood restaurants of Barcelona, and the tabernas of Cádiz. In all these places, there is just big love for seafood in its simplest forms, but yet, full of flavour.”

Juno Kim/Como Ultramar

The 2,500 sq. ft. space will feature a dining room and a mezzanine on the second level. As for the building itself, it’s located on Faber Block and was originally constructed in 1926 (formerly known as The Carolina). Over its century-old history, the building’s previous tenants include popular neighbourhood spots like Black and White Grocery and Seb’s Cafe.

Chef-partner Danile Kim will be leading the food side of things, bringing his 15 years of experience in Vancouver’s fine dining scene (most notably a decade at the award-winning Boulevard, where he rose to chef de cuisine).

As for the front of house team, Sean Grady will be leading things after several years at Como Taperia, where he currently serves as general manager.

Juno Kim/Como Ultramar

“The cooking will be centred around live charcoal. Think whole fish over fire, Basque-style, with the best seafood we can source locally and from afar,” explained Layton. “Our philosophy at Como Ultramar is to keep things simple with classic dishes and exceptional ingredients, all executed with great technique. We’ll also have a few fun surprises inspired by our favourite rooms in Spain.”

Como Ultramar is expected to open this winter. Will you be checking out this new seafood-focused restaurant? Let us know in the comments.

Como Ultramar

Address: 592 East Broadway, Vancouver

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