Vancouver’s South Granville neighbourhood has welcomed an exciting new addition to its culinary scene with the opening of Bar Asra, a globally inspired cocktail bar and restaurant offering a vibrant blend of bold flavours, inventive dishes, and a strong sense of cultural connection. Officially opening its doors on April 15, 2025, Bar Asra promises to be a dynamic destination where cuisine, creativity, and community meet.
The vision behind Bar Asra comes from Executive Chefs and Co-Owners Kanwardeep Ahluwalia and Baldeep Singh, both known for their boundary-pushing approach and international culinary backgrounds. At the core of Bar Asra’s philosophy is a deep respect for diverse culinary traditions, reinterpreted through personal experiences, seasonal ingredients, and a commitment to innovation.
The menu tells a story of migration, memory, and exploration, with globally influenced dishes designed to surprise and delight. Highlights include an ahi tuna crudo served with jasmine rice truffle, offering a fresh take on Thai Nam Khao salad with bright citrus and local seafood. The murtabak with jalapeño and cheese draws from traditional Yemeni street food while adding a sharp, modern twist. Another standout is the lamb quiche, nestled in a Ceylon paratha shell and paired with a goat cheese and mangetout salad—an homage to the culinary fusion that followed the Ottoman migration to South Asia. Dessert brings indulgence in the form of honey butter toast with fresh strawberries, a rich yet balanced finish to a globally inspired meal.
“Bar Asra is a reflection of our travels, our roots, and our desire to create something that feels both personal and shared,” says Ahluwalia. “We want to celebrate the connection between cultures, ingredients, and people—and invite guests to join us on this journey of discovery.”
Complementing the food is a carefully curated cocktail program, led by Bar Manager Mathew Locke, that mirrors the restaurant’s international spirit. Signature drinks include the Porto Spritz, a white port and tonic highball with a Mediterranean flair, and the Tokyo Silk, a smooth and refreshing mix of calpico and nigori sake.
The atmosphere at Bar Asra is as thoughtfully crafted as its menu. The interior reflects a modern organic aesthetic, blending warm wood textures, lush greenery, and ambient lighting to create a cozy yet elevated space. Seating includes a mix of communal tables, intimate booths, and bar seats, inviting connection and conversation. General Manager Johann Hart leads a hospitality-focused team that views service as a continuation of the storytelling behind each dish and drink.
Located at 1480 W 11th Ave, Bar Asra is open Tuesday through Sunday from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m., with Happy Hour from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Whether guests are stopping in for a quick drink or settling in for a full evening of exploration, Bar Asra offers a uniquely immersive dining experience in the heart of Vancouver.
For updates, visit barasra.com or follow @barasrayvr on Instagram.
