If you have not checked out German/Bavarian restaurant Tannenbaum in New Westminster since it opened in spring of 2023, it’s time. The busy, bustling vibe and full tables are every indication that this new hotspot is a breath of fresh air, and very welcome in the Greater Vancouver area. An unexpected plus? Vegetarian and gluten-free options are on the menu.
I sat down with owner Mira Mendes to chat about schnitzel, German beer, and her favourite dessert.
By Catherine Dunwoody
Hi Mira, thanks for chatting with us. Your food is delicious, your room is cozy, and we would love to know more about your background. What can you tell us?
I was trained in the service and hospitality industry in Germany. I went to Hospitality School and lived there for 13 years where I learned all my recipes and cooking skills. Moving to Canada, my first job was at the Alpen Haus in Vancouver, since then I proceeded to work at restaurants all over the Lower Mainland for over 20 years. It has always been my dream to have my own restaurant, and when I opened the Tannenbaum, I was finally able to achieve that.
Tell us what is on tap?
We have Warsteiner and a High-Country German style Kolsch from Mt. Begbie Brewery. We also have Paulaner and Koning-Ludwig wheat beers, and we are also expecting to receive a dark beer import from Germany very soon.
What is your most popular dish?
Most of our customers seem to order the Schwarzwalder Schnitzel or the Tannenbaum Platter. I think more people should give a try to the Rinds Rouladen. Maybe I shouldn’t recommend that though because they are so time consuming for me to make, but they are a very traditional dish and one of my personal favourites. (laughs). I used to make them with spaetzle and red cabbage for my family all the time.
Is your pork for schnitzel and bratwurst locally sourced?
Yes, all our pork products come from a Chilliwack-based distributor, and they source their meat from local BC farmers exclusively.
Your dessert list is impressive, what’s your favourite?
My personal favourite is the cheesecake. Well actually, I picked all my favourite desserts to be on the menu, but if I could only choose one it would be the cheesecake.
Check out the menu on Instagram at @thetannenbaum
You can find Tannenbaum at 66 10th Street (Unit #110) in New Westminster.
There are many ways to get here by transit. Visit TransLink’s Trip Planner to find your way.
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