Gilbees Wine Bar and Restaurant

On lower Johnston Street in Abbotsford, Gilbees Wine Bar and Restaurant offers a serene escape within a lush tropical garden.

The kitchen favours produce-led plates with coastal and Mediterranean accents. You might find freshly shucked rock oysters with a daily dressing, cuttlefish skewers brightened by chimichurri, or market fish paired with red and green harissa. The plush Gnocchi all’Amatriciana, threaded with hazelnut and pecorino, remains a standout choice.

Sides of marinated olives and twice-cooked kipflers with confit garlic bring easygoing comfort. For a satisfying finale, sun-ripe peach and perfumed cardamom are lifted by a tart crème chantilly.

Make a date, settle into the garden, and let Gilbees set the tone for the evening. When the wine is this good, the good times tend to pour themselves.