ARC Restaurant’s $39 Business Lunch: Actually Worth Leaving Your Desk
Finding a great spot for lunch downtown can sometimes feel like a lot of work. You usually have to choose between a quick bite or a long, formal sit-down meal that takes up your whole afternoon. ARC Restaurant at the Fairmont Waterfront offers a middle ground that works perfectly. It is polished enough for a meeting with a client but relaxed enough if you just want to enjoy a good meal by yourself. Plus, the view of the harbour is always a nice bonus.
One of the best reasons to visit right now is the Business Lunch. For $39, you get a two-course meal that focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients. It starts with the Chef’s Daily Harvest Soup. This is a comforting way to begin the meal and warm up before your main dish arrives.
For the main course, you choose one of their Harvest Bowls. They are hearty, well-thought-out dishes with plenty of texture and flavour.
Hot Smoked Salmon: This bowl feels very Pacific Northwest. It pairs rich smoked salmon with roasted beets and organic farro. Pickled anjou pears and a verjus vinaigrette add a bright pop of acidity that balances everything out.
Crispy Cauliflower: If you want a plant-based option, this is a great pick. The cauliflower gets a kick from chilli and is mixed with napa cabbage, carrots, and edamame. A soy-ginger vinaigrette brings it all together for a fresh, crunchy bite.
Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder: This is a fantastic choice if you want something comforting. The lamb is served with warm cannellini beans and heirloom carrots. A dollop of spiced yogurt adds creaminess without being too heavy.
Harissa Roasted Chicken: This bowl is packed with bold flavours. The chicken sits on a base of hummus and spiced chickpeas. Fresh greens, house pickles, and mint leaves keep the dish tasting light and vibrant.
Sometimes a salad or a bowl just isn’t what you are craving. If you are in the mood for something more substantial, you should check out the ARC Signatures section of the menu.
The Hiro Wagyu Burger is a standout item here. It is definitely indulgent. They top the patty with smoked bacon jam and melted gruyere cheese. House-made grainy mustard adds some heat, while fresh arugula provides a peppery bite. To top it all off, they add a fried egg. It is a big flavour combination that really works. You can choose fries, a kale caesar salad, or tomato soup on the side.
If you manage to save room for dessert, the menu offers a unique treat called the Squash Creme Caramel. It is a lovely twist on a classic dessert. It comes with honey nut squash compote, honeycomb, and a scoop of honey cinnamon gelato. It is also vegetarian and gluten-free, so it accommodates different dietary needs easily.
ARC Restaurant does a great job of making lunch feel special without being complicated. The food is fresh, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Whether you go for the light and healthy harvest bowls or the decadent Wagyu burger, you are going to leave happy. Give it a try next time you are near the waterfront.
