Paul's Restaurant

Stumbled across this place driving late Saturday and decided to come back for breakfast on Sunday. Reading the reviews I was a bit skeptical with both lots of good and negative reviews, especially after the change in ownership but decided to give them a try anyway. Upon walking in the vibe was terrific, it had a great 70's feel. It looked great, was very clean and the aroma of the food made it even better. We were welcomed by a friendly staff and taken to our booth. Chatting with the host we discussed this was our first time in and the different reviews that I had read. She simply stated since the new owners took over that they had a different mindset on the food and made some changes. She talked about the decisions the new owners made which basically came down to "Do you want food prepare

The people that run this place really care about food and service. It's not quite a classic diner, but it is a classic diner when you walk in. Good options for sensitive diets. I had the meatloaf and a side of grits. Honestly, the side of grits could be its own meal...super rich and cheesy smoky perfect grits, best I've had on this coast. But the meatloaf and mash was way beyond what I expect...elevated flavors. I'll go out of my way to go back. And the gal running the front of house was perfect. Not invasive, but attentive. Funny. Happy. Don't sleep on this place.

My wife came home wanting pot roast—craving an old-school, home-style supper. I know plenty of meat-focused eateries—Roots, Gustav's, Feast 316, The Hammond, etc.—but none of them serve pot roast. Fortunately Paul's in downtown Vancouver does. My bride had never eaten there, and I hadn't in decades. I was pleased to have the opportunity to try it again since it's under new management. I also wanted to introduce her to The Elbow Room. Paul's is legit mid-century Americana. With a few exceptions, it's a time capsule of the late ’60s to early ’70s. It was a Friday night at dinner time, yet the restaurant was chill. Only two other tables were occupied. I ordered the beef stroganoff. Of course, she ordered the pot roast. The pot roast was so tender she easily separated it with a fork, sending

I'll admit I was skeptical when Pauls changed hands, but DAMN the food is good. The biscuits and gravy are amazing. I'm picky as hell about my B&G and they deliver. Not too floury, white gravy, subtle spice, modern style with some veggies thrown in but not overdone (sausage gravy). It came out lukewarm and I (sheepishly) asked for it hotter and our supremely nice waitress (Lois) got it redone with no fuss. Clearly a pro, because it came back hot and delicious. Give them a chance if you haven't been back or haven't tried them.

One reason I moved to downtown Vancouver was to have convenient access to locally owned neighborhood eateries like Paul’s. After my first visit, I came away with mixed feelings. The service was five stars. The pleasant woman who waited on me was attentive and clearly an old hand at taking care of customers. The standard bacon and eggs breakfast was just okay and the coffee was outrageously priced at $4.50 which was surprising for a simple diner like Paul’s. I’m not sure I’ll go back, mainly because of the many dining options to explore in the area. Still, the fact that Paul’s has survived for decades seems right and proper in a world of ever-changing tastes.