Stylish modern spot with standout brunch bennies and a value-forward $45 Dine Out tasting, but service inconsistency and a few food safety complaints mean great nights alternate with frustrating ones.
The Sequel delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by signature fried chicken bennies and creative brunch plates, paired with exceptional design appeal in a stylish downtown-west setting. However, inconsistent execution across visits—ranging from excellent to bland—and variable service reliability prevent it from reaching higher territory. The Dine Out value proposition and loyal following position it as a competitive neighborhood favorite, though not yet a destination standout.
The Sequel greets you with a warm, stylish room of navy, brass, and low light, where bar seats overlook the action and birthdays cue surprise cheesecake. Guests describe the vibe as cozy and a touch romantic, sometimes with live jazz. One diner summed it up: "Service felt caring and celebratory, the kind that turns dinner into a night out." In the kitchen, the approach leans contemporary with creative comfort: fried chicken bennies crowned with silky hollandaise, truffled omelettes, smoked tuna steak, and tender beef cheek on the prix fixe. The Dine Out menu wins praise for flavor and value, though there are scattered misses—an occasional bland plate, an oversalted pasta, or a dry protein—so experiences can swing from excellent to just okay. Families will find brunch friendly: pancakes, waffles, bennies, and crispy smashed potatoes are easy wins. There is no explicit kids menu on the provided list, but portions and familiar flavors help. Noise can spike with little ones nearby; for calmer family time, earlier weekday brunch is best.
Area vibe: Upscale downtown-west corridor serving office workers, condo residents, and hotel guests; stylish, business-casual crowd.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic and good lighting; typical downtown urban conditions.
What's nearby: Near Coal Harbour condos, hotels, and the West End; walkable to seawall, offices, and retail on Robson/Denman.