I was pleasantly surprised with the location and ambiance of this restaurant. I thoroughly enjoyed the view and service. It was outstanding and a very good time. The front of house service staff seemed very busy but overall they were great. On the other hand, I was less than impressed with the sushi (appetizer) and the fish. If you are unsure of fusion restaurants, this is not one to come and try first. I think the executive chef has a long way to go with his menu choices. There was a distinct smell of sterno wafting throughout the patio area...it was very warm though! Overall, I will return to The Sandbar because of the ambiance and patio bar atmosphere.

I was excited to hear that a new BBQ was opening in Richmond. I was even more excited to read that their BBQ meat was smoked in their own smoker. Unfortunately, I have been to many great BBQ's in my life and this wasn't one of them. I know from experience that the ribs and brisket were far from smoked for the correct time in an actual smoker (should be 8 hrs or more in a wood fired smoker). I am sure that my ribs were boiled prior to being cooked up on a grill. Many Barbecue restaurants think that they can get away with this. Fortunately, for the sake of the people of Vancouver, let me tell you that this isn't authentic at all. The atmosphere was pretty good. I really like this location and hope the owners see this and read up on how to correctly prepare themselves for their future as a BBQ restaurant named 'Hog Shack'.