Justin Joyce and Stephan MacIntyre

Burgoo is the name of a thick soup or stew from the American South and, historically, of a thick porridge served aboard ships. In Vancouver, Burgoo is synonymous with comfort food, served from four neighbourhood bistros in North Vancouver, Point Grey, Kitsilano and Mount Pleasant. When the first restaurant opened in 2001, its menu featured hearty bowl foods served in a casual, welcoming ambience.

Today, those original soups and stews share pride of place with signature starters, salads, sandwiches and desserts, many designed for sharing. True to its roots, Burgoo's menu is about foods that nourish and comfort. From its popular Potage Grand-maman, a traditional Quebecois pea soup, to its sinfully addictive Gooey Cheesy Grillers, a British import, to its extra-garlicky Caesar, the traditional Mexican salad taken to new heights of flavour, and its fresh and fragrant lamb tagine reminiscent of Morocco, the bistro's dishes span the globe. What are common to all of them are bold flavours, generous portions and an overwhelming feeling of eating healthy, satisfying, home-style food.

Burgoo brings its recipes to the page for the first time, satisfying long-time guests of the restaurants and introducing home cooks to delicious and easy-to-make dishes for every day or for entertaining a crowd. From dips to brunch dishes, make-ahead soups to last-minute desserts, Burgoo offers seventy-five unpretentious, family favourites for every palate, all beautifully photographed and smartly packaged.