Top Chef Canada winner to open first-ever Vancouver restaurant
Chef Chanthy Yen dominated Top Chef Canada Season 11, and now, he’s about to tackle a new exciting challenge: launching a restaurant in Vancouver.
The acclaimed chef shared that he will open his first in the city, TOUK, as co-owner and executive chef. The concept started as a small pop-up during the pandemic in Montreal back in 2020.
Slated to open in November 2025, this spot brands itself as a first-of-its-kind and promises contemporary Cambodian eats.
Diners will find the soon-to-be-open dining destination at 1152 Alberni St., the former location of Michelin-recognized establishment Archer, which closed its doors earlier this year.
TOUK, meaning “boat” in Khmer (an official language of Cambodia), will represent a culmination of Yen’s journey, honouring memory and heritage for the Cambodian-Canadian chef.
“I’ve always dreamed of a space where I could celebrate Cambodian cuisine in a way that feels authentic to me,” says Yen.
“TOUK is about honouring my roots while pushing the boundaries of what Cambodian food can be in today’s culinary landscape.”
At opening, folks can expect the 2,295 sq ft space to have seats for 50 in the main dining room and an additional five at the bar, along with a second-level, standing bar called LOOLAA, where 20 guests can sip on cocktails and nibble on complimentary snacks.
Rendering of TOUK
Rendering of TOUK
We’re told to expect a menu of Ă la carte and prix fixe offerings that weave “together Cambodian and French influences” and a space that features warm tones and an original triptych by Cambodian artist FONKi.
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Award-winning bartender Tara Davies (Chupito) has developed the cocktail program at TOUK, and the wine list was put together by Jayton Paul (Chez CĂ©line) and Virginie Semery (St. Lawrence).
We’ll keep you posted on all the details as they come. Stay tuned!
TOUK
Address: 1152 Alberni St., Vancouver
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