Seafood shack started to save a struggling Vancouver restaurant is now expanding

What started as a way to save a struggling brick-and-mortar has now evolved into a clam chowder shack with a cult following, and it will soon expand to two locations.

Jack’s Chowder broke the news on Instagram that it will be opening its second location in downtown Vancouver at Bentall Centre.

“Honestly, it is beyond surreal that our little dream is expanding. This location fell into our laps and we couldn’t say no,” shared the restaurant.

 

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The idea for Jack’s Chowder first came about due to ongoing struggles that Shameless Buns faced at its brick-and-mortar location (don’t worry, the Shameless Buns food truck is still going strong).

Instead of closing the location, owners Corvette Romero and Matt Brennan decided to transition the space into Jack’s Chowder. What started as a simple weekend pop-up to test the waters eventually turned into a full transformation into a clam chowder shack.

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While Jack’s pays homage to the dish’s origins, the restaurant elevates the classic clam chowder with lobster oil and bacon ends from Crack On. Plus, it’s of course served in a sourdough bread bowl.

Marco Ovies/Dished

But if you’re not feeling chowder, there are plenty of other options to enjoy. Specifically, the fish sandwich, which Jack’s Chowder calls a “kind of a grown-up version of the Filet-O-something.” It features beer-battered cod, B&B pickles, American cheese, and Jack’s tartar sauce all on a tasty bun.

Marco Ovies/Dished

Other items include Dill Pickle Popcorn Shrimp, Salt & Vinegar Fries, house-made pickles, and what the restaurant calls the “tangiest tartar you’ve ever lapped up.”

Jack’s Chowder Bentall Centre location is expected to open sometime in mid-October. Be sure to check back here for more updates soon.

Jack’s Chowder — Bentall Centre

Address: Inside Bentall Centre — 1055 Dunsmuir St., Vancouver

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