Bare Bones Fish House and Smokery – Lance Dodding & Vishal Dewli

Lance Dodding, of Qualicum First Nation and business partner Vishal Dewli, of India. Lance and Vishal are an NEDC Business Award Winner 2023 - Best New Business

Business partners Lance and Vishal, offer ‘upscale casual dining,’ a different genre of the restaurant business. Discover a culinary haven at Bare Bones, a casual seafood restaurant boasting a 100% Gluten-Free Food Menu. They pride themselves on being just more than a seafood restaurant. They provide welcoming space for families and large groups.

Their first location, Bare Bones, was followed by Off The Hook, which has expanded to 3 locations. Each of their 6 establishments offers sustainable Seafood from a unique ‘full gluten-free’ menu.” Lance started his journey in culinary school and Vishal in business school. Together, they have worked in every position there is in a restaurant. They have a combined 30 years of experience. They offer a unique experience in Seafood dining.

While attending NEDC’s recent BC Indigenous Seafood Conference they connected with local Indigenous harvesters. Very soon they look forward to providing ‘fresh locally caught Seafood’ in their restaurants.COVID-19 and the recent Cameron Lake road closures were a challenge and barrier. It’s also put a strain on their families since they work ‘all the time’ because work doesn’t end when they get home as there is a lot of late nights and stress. However, seeing the growth and vision in their business keeps them going. They are building a ‘legacy’ that won’t be dismissed. Even after already having 6 establishments Lance and Vishal see opportunity for growth and expansion. They love what they do and encourage up-and-coming or struggling entrepreneurs ‘not to give up’ and ‘do the work and the results will come.’