Bow & Stern Abbotsford
⭐ Bow & Stern is known for Seafood Linguine and Fresh Oysters.
💡 Good to Know
- The Original Location
- Bow & Stern began in Abbotsford in 2014.
- Historic Downtown
- Located on Montrose Avenue among downtown shops.
- Weekend Brunch
- Opens at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday.
❤️ Top Favourites
🍽️ Bow & Stern Menu
🦐 Shareables
A selection of seafood appetizers, crispy favourites and shareable starters featuring house-made sauces and fresh ingredients.
Brussels Sprouts
Deep-fried Brussels sprouts tossed with cracked chillies, honey and citrus. Gluten-Friendly Option.
BC Salmon Cakes
Two golden-fried BC salmon cakes served with house greens, pickled onions, red pepper jelly and Dijon aioli. An additional salmon cake is available.
Calamari
Crispy fried calamari accompanied by house-made tzatziki for dipping. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Chicken Tenders & Fries
Crispy chicken tenders served with French fries and your choice of honey mustard or plum dipping sauce.
Jumbo Prawn Cocktail
Four jumbo tiger prawns served with house cocktail sauce, fresh horseradish and lemon. Gluten-Friendly Option.
East Coast Lobster Dip
A warm dip featuring lobster, mozzarella and white cheddar cheese, topped with corn tortilla chip crumbs and served with corn tortilla chips.
Dynamite Roll
A sushi roll featuring deep-fried prawn, mango, cucumber and avocado, finished with yuzu-togarashi mayonnaise and tempura crisps.
🥣 Soups
House-made soups featuring fresh seafood and rotating seasonal ingredients.
Boston Clam Chowder
A house-made clam chowder featuring whole steamed clams. The bowl is served with warm bread.
Seasonal Soup
A rotating soup prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients.
🥗 Salads & Bowls
Fresh salads and seafood-inspired bowls featuring mixed greens, vegetables, house dressings and customizable protein options.
Green Salad
Mixed greens with feta cheese, candied pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries and gem tomatoes, tossed in white balsamic vinaigrette. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Caesar Salad
Romaine lettuce tossed with shaved Parmesan, croutons and house Caesar dressing.
Prawn & Avocado Cobb Salad
Mixed greens topped with grilled tiger prawns, a medium-poached egg, goat cheese, avocado, gem tomatoes, radishes, rémoulade and bacon, finished with Green Goddess dressing. Gluten-Friendly Option.
B&S Poke Bowl
Furikake-seasoned sushi rice topped with roasted pineapple, wakame, radish, avocado and edamame, finished with ginger soy ponzu sauce and yuzu-togarashi mayonnaise. Choose ahi tuna, dynamite prawn or crispy tofu, with the option to substitute green salad for rice.
🌮 Tacos
Seafood tacos served with French fries and your choice of flour or corn tortillas.
Baja Fish Tacos
Signature cod with shredded cabbage, avocado crema, chipotle aioli and pico de gallo, served in your choice of tortillas. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
Crispy shrimp glazed in sweet chilli sauce, topped with cabbage, Sriracha mayonnaise, pickled Fresno chillies and mango cucumber salsa. Served in your choice of tortillas. Gluten-Friendly Option.
🍔 Handhelds
Burgers and sandwiches featuring Canadian beef, chicken and seafood, served with hand-cut French fries. Soup, salad or yam fries are available as side substitutions.
B&S Burger
Two beef patties topped with double white cheddar cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, tomato jam and garlic mayonnaise, served on a toasted brioche bun. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Cajun Chicken Sandwich
Cajun-seasoned chicken with white cheddar, garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato and red onion, served on toasted focaccia.
Signature Fish Burger
Signature crispy fried cod topped with house tartar sauce, lettuce and tomato on a toasted brioche bun. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Honey Thyme Fried Chicken Sandwich
Marinated, fried chicken thigh with house coleslaw, pickles, cracked chilli-infused honey and garlic mayonnaise, served on a toasted brioche bun.
Grilled Salmon Burger
Grilled salmon topped with shaved red onion, popped capers, lettuce and house pesto tartar sauce, served on a toasted brioche bun. Gluten-Friendly Option.
🦪 Fresh Oysters
Fresh East Coast and West Coast oysters served on the half shell with shaved fresh horseradish and red wine vinegar mignonette.
Fresh Oysters on the Half Shell
Freshly shucked oysters with your choice of East Coast or West Coast selections, accompanied by traditional garnishes.
🐟 Signature Seafood Dishes
Seafood favourites featuring house-made sauces, fresh shellfish and traditional fish and chips.
Fish & Chips
Signature cod served with house-made tartar sauce and coleslaw. Gluten-Friendly Option. Dairy-Friendly Option.
Mussels, Clams or Both
Your choice of mussels, clams or a combination of both, prepared in one of three signature sauces and served with grilled focaccia. Gluten-Friendly Option.
White Wine Cream Sauce
A creamy sauce featuring garlic, onion, white wine and fresh herbs.
Thai Green Curry Sauce
A fragrant Thai green curry prepared with coconut milk and fried shallots.
Spanish Tomato Sauce
A tomato and fennel broth with smoked paprika, roasted peppers and white wine.
🦀 For the Table
Generous seafood platters designed for sharing, featuring Atlantic lobster, fresh shellfish and seasonal accompaniments.
Hot Seafood Platter
A seafood platter featuring Arctic char, tiger prawns, Atlantic lobster, mussels and clams, served with white wine cream sauce, seasonal vegetables and jasmine rice. Gluten-Friendly Option.
🥩 Reef & Beef
Canadian AAA steaks served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. Gluten-Friendly Option. Dairy-Friendly Option.
Top Sirloin
Canadian AAA top sirloin steak grilled to your preferred doneness, served with garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Striploin
Canadian AAA striploin steak grilled to your preferred doneness, accompanied by garlic mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Steak Frites
A six-ounce Canadian AAA sirloin steak served with hand-cut French fries, greens salad, Café de Paris butter, fried shallots and grilled garlic focaccia.
🍽️ Seafood Mains
Seafood entrées featuring Pacific fish, shellfish, fresh vegetables, pasta and rich house-made sauces. Gluten-aware modifications may be available for selected dishes.
Cioppino
A hearty seafood stew featuring mussels, clams, prawns, salmon and seasonal white fish in tomato fennel broth with garlic and cracked chillies, served with grilled focaccia. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Wild Salmon
Pan-seared wild salmon served with jasmine rice and seasonal vegetables, finished with Dijon horseradish aioli. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Arctic Char
Crispy-skinned Arctic char served with creamy risotto, seasonal vegetables and microgreens, finished with lemon beurre blanc. Gluten-Friendly Option.
Lobster & Prawn Mac N' Cheese
A rich macaroni and cheese featuring lobster and Argentinian red prawns in lobster bisque cheese sauce, topped with toasted herb bread crumbs and served with grilled focaccia.
Mac N' Cheese
Macaroni tossed in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with toasted herb bread crumbs.
Seafood Linguini
Linguini tossed in white wine cream sauce with prawns, mussels, clams, salmon and seasonal white fish, accompanied by grilled focaccia.
Tomato Prawn Linguini
Linguini with Argentinian red prawns, fresh basil, Parmesan, olive oil, garlic and cracked chillies in a rich tomato sauce.
🍰 Desserts
A selection of rich chocolate desserts, creamy classics and house favourites.
Double Chocolate Pudding
Smooth dark chocolate pudding topped with espresso cream and almond praline. Gluten-Free.
Vanilla Crème Brûlée
Classic vanilla bean crème brûlée served with powdered dark chocolate ganache and raspberry gel. Gluten-Free.
Crème Brûlée Cheesecake
New York-style cheesecake finished with brûléed sugar and a seasonal topping.
Gramma D's Carrot Cake
Traditional carrot cake topped with cream cheese frosting and candied pecans.
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake
Warm gluten-free chocolate lava cake with a molten centre, served with raspberry gel and vanilla ice cream. Gluten-Free.
Seasonal Feature Dessert
A rotating dessert selection. Ask your server for current details.
🍸 After Dinner Drinks
Coffee-based cocktails and warming liqueur combinations to finish your meal.
Espresso Martini
Van Gogh Espresso Vodka shaken with Kahlúa, Baileys and cold brew coffee. Served as a two-ounce cocktail.
Monte Cristo
A warm coffee cocktail combining Kahlúa and Grand Marnier, topped with whipped cream. Contains one ounce of spirits.
Bailey's Coffee
Fresh coffee blended with Baileys Irish Cream and finished with whipped cream. Contains one ounce of spirits.
B52
A coffee cocktail featuring Kahlúa, Baileys and Grand Marnier, topped with whipped cream. Contains one ounce of spirits.
⭐ Bow & Stern Favourites
These selections are based on dishes commonly praised in Google reviews.
Seafood Linguine
Seafood Linguine is one of the most consistently praised dishes at Bow & Stern Abbotsford. The pasta combines prawns, mussels, clams and salmon in a white wine cream sauce, accompanied by warm focaccia. Reviewers frequently highlight the seafood flavours, satisfying portions and freshness of the ingredients. It is a particularly popular choice for anniversary dinners, special occasions and returning customers who enjoy seafood pasta.
Fresh Oysters
Fresh oysters are a signature attraction at Bow & Stern, drawing customers who visit specifically for the oyster bar. Reviewers often praise their freshness and flavour, with several regulars returning for oysters and drinks during happy hour. The selection can vary by season and availability, giving seafood enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy different varieties. Oysters are especially popular as a shared appetizer before dinner.
Fish & Chips
Bow & Stern's Fish & Chips is a longstanding favourite among Abbotsford diners. The signature version features battered cod with hand-cut fries, house tartar sauce and lemon. Customers regularly compliment the crisp coating, well-cooked fish and accompanying fries, with some describing it as among the best fish and chips they have enjoyed. It remains a reliable choice for guests seeking a classic seafood meal.
Calamari
Calamari is one of the restaurant's most frequently recommended appetizers. Prepared with a crispy gluten-free breading and served with house tzatziki, it offers a familiar seafood starter with a distinctive preparation. Abbotsford reviewers repeatedly praise its flavour and texture, and several mention ordering it alongside oysters or other appetizers. It is a popular choice for sharing before a larger seafood dinner.
Lobster & Prawn Mac N' Cheese
This rich seafood pasta combines lobster and Argentinian red prawns with a lobster bisque cheese sauce, finished with toasted herb breadcrumbs and served with warm focaccia. Abbotsford customers frequently recommend the lobster mac and cheese for its comforting texture and seafood flavour. Several diners have discovered it through staff recommendations and returned to enjoy it again. It offers a more indulgent alternative to traditional macaroni and cheese.
Hot Seafood Platter
The Hot Seafood Platter is a favourite for couples and groups who want to share a selection of seafood. Reviewers describe generous servings, enjoyable variety and the opportunity to sample different preparations in one meal. Several customers have returned specifically for the seafood platters, while others recommend them for special occasions. The platter is particularly appealing to diners who prefer sharing rather than ordering individual entrées.
🍽️ Dining Experience
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Ocean-Inspired Dining in Historic Downtown
Bow & Stern brings a coastal seafood restaurant atmosphere to Montrose Avenue in Historic Downtown Abbotsford. The dining room combines nautical details, distinctive ocean-themed decorations and warm lighting with a polished but approachable setting. Reviewers regularly describe the interior as cozy, stylish and welcoming, making it suitable for both casual meals and special occasions.
The Original Bow & Stern
Established in 2014, the Abbotsford restaurant is the original Bow & Stern location. Its seafood-focused concept has since expanded to Chilliwack and Burnaby. Longtime customers describe returning over several years for familiar dishes, cocktails and the restaurant's distinctive atmosphere.
Date Nights and Celebrations
The restaurant is a popular destination for anniversaries, birthdays, romantic dinners and family celebrations. Customers frequently mention choosing Bow & Stern for milestone occasions, while reviews describe attentive service and memorable meals. The combination of seafood specialties, cocktails and a comfortable dining room gives it an atmosphere that feels special without being overly formal.
A Lively Dining Room
Bow & Stern has a sociable atmosphere that becomes especially energetic during busy dinner periods. The nautical décor and comfortable seating create an inviting setting, although the dining room can become noticeably loud when full. Guests hoping for a quieter conversation may prefer an earlier reservation or a less busy dining period.
Seafood and More
The menu centres on oysters, fish and chips, seafood pasta, salmon, prawns and shareable appetizers. Other selections include burgers, tacos, salads, poke bowls and children's meals. This variety makes the restaurant practical for mixed groups, including guests who prefer something other than a traditional seafood entrée.
Weekend Brunch
Bow & Stern also serves weekend brunch, offering another way to enjoy the restaurant beyond lunch and dinner. Customers mention brunch outings with family and friends, including shared platters and breakfast dishes. The brunch menu and morning opening hours make it an option for weekend gatherings in downtown Abbotsford.
Cocktails and Happy Hour
The restaurant has a full bar with cocktails, wine and beer. Happy hour is particularly popular, with customers highlighting oyster specials, appetizers and drinks. Reviewers frequently praise the cocktail presentation and consider the promotional menu an appealing way to sample several dishes. Offerings and promotional times may change.
🅿️ Parking & Accessibility
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Downtown Street Parking
Bow & Stern is located at 2551 Montrose Avenue in Historic Downtown Abbotsford. Street parking is available in the surrounding downtown area, although spaces close to the restaurant can be harder to find during busy periods. Some customers report convenient access near the entrance, while others mention spending additional time looking for a parking space.
Walkable Downtown Setting
The Montrose Avenue location is convenient for visitors exploring the surrounding downtown shops, cafés and businesses on foot. Guests can combine a restaurant visit with other activities in the historic commercial district. Allowing extra time for parking is advisable when arriving for a reservation during a busy evening.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Bow & Stern is listed as wheelchair accessible, and customer reviews describe an accommodating dining environment. The restaurant has also received positive feedback from families visiting with young children. Guests who require specific entrance clearance, accessible washroom arrangements or suitable table spacing should confirm those details directly before visiting.
Reservations and Seating
Reservations are available for regular dining and larger groups. Reviewers frequently recommend booking ahead, particularly for Friday and Saturday evenings or special occasions. The restaurant also accommodates group celebrations, with arrangements available for larger parties and private events.
📍 Landmarks & Location
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Historic Downtown Abbotsford
Bow & Stern is situated at 2551 Montrose Avenue in the heart of Historic Downtown Abbotsford. The neighbourhood is known for its established storefronts, independent businesses and pedestrian-friendly commercial streets. The restaurant's central location makes it a convenient destination for residents and visitors exploring the downtown district.
Montrose Avenue
The restaurant occupies a storefront along Montrose Avenue, surrounded by the shops, cafés and services that make up Abbotsford's historic commercial centre. Its distinctive nautical interior offers a contrast to the surrounding streetscape, bringing an ocean-inspired dining experience to the Fraser Valley.
A Downtown Dining Destination
Bow & Stern has become an established part of Abbotsford's restaurant scene since opening in 2014. Customers travel from other Fraser Valley communities and Metro Vancouver for seafood dinners, celebrations and return visits. Its reputation for oysters, seafood pasta and fish and chips makes it a recognizable dining destination in the area.
Exploring the Neighbourhood
The restaurant's downtown setting makes it convenient for lunch during a shopping trip, an afternoon happy hour or dinner after exploring nearby businesses. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding historic district before or after their meal without needing to travel to another part of the city.
📱 Ordering Options
This section summarizes information from restaurant sources, customer reviews and other public sources.
Dine-In and Reservations
Bow & Stern Abbotsford offers full-service dining for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Reservations can be made through the restaurant's official website, and advance booking is recommended for busy evenings and celebrations. Walk-in seating may be available depending on demand.
Online Ordering and Takeout
Customers can access the Abbotsford ordering menu through Bow & Stern's website. The online selection includes seafood appetizers, fish and chips, pasta, tacos, burgers, poke bowls and other dishes. Ordering availability and preparation times depend on the restaurant's current service schedule. Customers can also telephone the restaurant to confirm takeout arrangements.
Happy Hour and Oyster Specials
Bow & Stern offers a separate happy hour menu featuring selected food and drink promotions. Oysters are a particular draw, with many customers visiting specifically for the specials. Promotional items, prices and hours can change, so guests should consult the current Abbotsford happy hour menu before visiting.
Weekend Brunch
Brunch service is available on Saturdays and Sundays, with a dedicated selection of breakfast and midday dishes. Customers can reserve a table for a weekend gathering or check the current brunch menu online. The restaurant opens earlier on weekends than during the regular weekday schedule.
Group Bookings and Private Events
Bow & Stern accepts group booking enquiries for birthdays, family celebrations, corporate gatherings and other events. The Abbotsford restaurant can accommodate larger parties, with arrangements depending on group size and the requested dining area. Event organizers can submit an enquiry through the restaurant's group booking service.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
The menu includes vegetarian-friendly selections and dishes identified as gluten-free or gluten-friendly. Examples include salads, vegetable appetizers and selected poke bowls, while the calamari is advertised with gluten-free breading. Guests with coeliac disease or serious allergies should confirm ingredients, shared equipment and cross-contact procedures directly with the kitchen before ordering.
Contact and Opening Hours
Bow & Stern Abbotsford is located at 2551 Montrose Avenue and can be reached at 604-776-3474. Published hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Holiday hours and kitchen closing times may vary.
💬 Customer Feedback
This section summarizes recurring themes in customer reviews.
Fresh Seafood and Popular Signature Dishes
Seafood quality is the strongest recurring theme in positive Abbotsford reviews. Customers frequently praise the seafood linguine, oysters, fish and chips, calamari and seafood platters. Many describe well-prepared fish, enjoyable flavours and attractive presentation, while longtime guests return for favourite dishes. Seafood freshness and preparation receive substantial praise, although experiences with individual dishes are not universally consistent.
Warm Service and Hospitality
Numerous reviewers describe friendly, knowledgeable and attentive staff who help make dinners and celebrations memorable. Customers appreciate helpful menu recommendations, thoughtful attention during family visits and accommodating service for larger groups. Positive experiences are particularly common in reviews of birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions.
Distinctive Atmosphere
The nautical décor, warm lighting and comfortable setting receive frequent compliments. Guests describe Bow & Stern as a good choice for dates, celebrations and relaxed meals with friends. A recurring drawback is the noise level during busy periods, when conversations can become difficult across the table.
Service Timing and Reservations
Although many customers report prompt food delivery and attentive service, others describe long waits for drinks, delayed courses or inconsistent attention throughout the meal. A smaller number mention reservation or seating difficulties. Booking ahead and allowing sufficient time for dinner can help guests plan for busy periods.
Food Consistency and Value
Customer opinions on pricing and value vary. Many consider the seafood quality, portions and dining experience worthwhile, especially during happy hour. Others feel certain dishes are expensive for their size or describe inconsistent cooking and presentation. Oysters receive both enthusiastic praise and occasional criticism concerning size or shucking quality.
A Popular Choice for Celebrations
Bow & Stern attracts couples, families and groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones. Many customers report memorable meals and return visits, reflecting the restaurant's established reputation in Abbotsford. The combination of seafood specialties, a full bar and distinctive surroundings remains central to its appeal.
Sources
Links used to compile this restaurant’s menu and dining information.
- Bow & Stern Menu (opens in a new tab)View the restaurant's menu at the linked source to confirm current prices, availability, and menu details.
