Nothing says springtime in Vancouver quite like the blooming of its majestic cherry tree blossoms, or sakura. Cherry blossom season is short, so it’s often greeted with an influx of inspiration and creativity.

This season looks to be no different as Vancouver’s Market by Jean-Georges recently unveiled its remarkable month long sakura-inspired tasting menu, Rooted in Heritage. The five-course menu, conceived and created by executive chef, Ken Nakano, is an homage of sorts to his Japanese heritage. Much like Vancouver’s cherry blossoms, which are symbolic of the connection between Canada and Japan, chef Nakano’s sakura menu represents a fusion of his Japanese background and his love for the Canadian seasonal counterpart.

"During my trips to Japan, I always reconnect with the subtle flavours and refined characteristics of Japanese cuisine. On my most recent trip, I was reminded of how influential sakura season and the cherry blossom festival was to my mother's cooking," said Nakano, who was born in Vancouver and raised by parents who immigrated from Osaka. "With this menu, I wanted to honour the traditions of my mother's kitchen, and utilize the principles of Japanese cuisine. Each dish is delicate and precise, with simple flavours to let the seasonal, high-quality ingredients shine."

Market by Jean-Georges is located on the third floor of Shangri-La Hotel in Vancouver and is offering the Rooted in Heritage tasting menu for $89 per person until April 30. The location is highlighted by its gorgeous rooftop patio, which creates a perfect setting to take in both the delectable cuisine of chef Nakano and the majesty of the season from which it was inspired.