Wikipedia reads that a Judas goat is trained to lead sheep to slaughter while its own life is spared. And located in the middle of Gastown’s Blood Alley, it is perhaps an apt name for the new tapas bar from Scott Hawthorn and Sean Heather, the owners of the Irish Heather and Salt Tasting room, just steps away.

The goat is a tiny, funky little room, quickly rammed full by just over 20 people, some of whom sit right in the ovenless kitchen. The front of house staff, the kitchen staff and the patrons are all on top of each other, and a lone door leads down a bomb-shelter-like hallway to distant rest rooms (do not forget the key fob!). But the atmosphere is lively and voracious.

The tapas menu embraces the trend of having people fill out a menu with how many they want of each item. The choices are divided between bruschettas, hot items, (from the Quizno’s-like toaster) “pressed and potted” items and salads.

I sampled a deliciously salty Rabbit Rillette with Carrot Panna Cotta. ($6) The chorizo, caramelized onion and dark chocolate bruschetta ($8 for 4) was fabulous and I could have had about 100 of them. The marinated beat salad ($7) was demur and a bit too subtle, but provided a counter point to the intensity of everything else. Beef brisket Meatballs ($6) were of an interesting texture, and in dire need of seasoning in a plain tomato sauce. The braised pork belly ($6) looked unappealingly beige, but ended being outrageously good – it is a must-order. And finally, a somewhat subtle Foie Gras was served with a Rhubarb “foam” that was almost mousse.

The drink menu was similarly eclectic and I thought a little light on beer choices. Only cider is on tap.

The goat is a fun place to head after work, and it is nice to see more bars opening up in Gastown. The menu makes for interesting eating and assuming you do not suffer from claustrophobia, you will likely have a great time at the goat, with a couple of friends (not more). The goat’s small size is interesting when you consider that overflow is sent to Salt or the Irish heather. Sean Heather has a game plan and I think that in it we are all sheep.

Update: New Dishes

Judas Goat
604 681 5090
27 Blood Alley
Vancouver, BC
judasgoat.ca goat@judasgoat.ca

Or: Just drop by, and if they don’t have a seat, they will take your number, send to one of their other operations located within a 200 ft (Salt Tasting Room or Irish Heather Gastropub) and call you when seats are available.