Vij's, Vancouver

Is Vancouver's Vij's the best Indian restaurant in North America? There's a local fan base willing to wait 90+ minutes who'd argue it is (the restaurant doesn't take reservations). Despite my best efforts my sample base remains too small for a definitive answer but I'll go this far: it's the best Indian restaurant I've eaten at in North America.

I just missed getting in on the first sitting after arriving a few minutes before the 5.30pm opening. Ultimately I'm not sorry because as well as enjoying a Storm Brewing IPA on the patio while I waited I was also treated to several bites of spicy fries, curry crackers and pakora.  

A starter of jackfruit cardamom curry was plenty spicy and served with fresh naan to scoop up the remaining sauce. 

My main course was a creamy pork curry over spinach with tangy citrus notes and abundant ginger. This was served with both basmati rice and naan. Rich and rewarding.

My advice: arrive a little late and build an appetite on the patio before sinking into the dark dining room where no one can see you sweat over deep and flavourful curry with a touch of modern invention.