The 38 Must-Visit Restaurants in Vancouver

Angus An, one of the city’s most dedicated chefs, operates five restaurants across Vancouver, including Fat Mao, known for its delightful noodles in Chinatown and Downtown, as well as Longtail Kitchen and Sen Pad Thai. If you can visit only one of his Mytouries, choose Maenam, where you can savor An’s skillful blend of sweet, aromatic, citrusy, hot, and spicy flavors in exquisite Thai dishes with a B.C. twist. The lounge welcomes walk-ins for à la carte dinner, but booking the chef’s menu is recommended—a fantastic deal at $88 ($65 USD) per person for 11 family-style dishes. The four-course lunch sets also provide excellent value.

Returning for another summer season, Rain or Shine signifies joy and delicious waffle cones by English Bay. This Philadelphia-style ice cream (made without eggs) uses milk sourced from Birchwood Farm in Abbotsford, along with local ingredients such as oil from the Vancouver Olive Oil Company, raw honey from North Okanagan, and lavender from nearby Maple Ridge. There are no soy, corn syrup, modified milk ingredients, or artificial flavors or extracts. Take a moment to ponder your flavor choices (including numerous vegan and gluten-free options), then savor your treat while sitting on a beach log as the waves crash nearby.

While the aisles buzz with eager Instagrammers at this sought-after tourist spot, you can uncover treasures perfect for a delightful picnic while enjoying views of boats and paddle boarders on False Creek. Choose from tasty options like pickled headcheese, juicy mortadella, and zesty salami at Oyama Sausage Co, then swing by Terra Bread for some focaccia or baguettes before grabbing local cheeses from Benton Brothers and fresh doughnuts from Lee’s.

Embark on a 20-minute Skytrain journey from downtown to Richmond, a city dubbed by Dinogo’s former critic Bill Addison as “one of the cultural marvels of North America” due to its exceptional Asian cuisine. This acclaimed restaurant is known for its dim sum, expertly crafted by chef-owner May Chau, who specializes in Hong Kong favorites: steamed pork and crab dumplings, pan-fried pork buns, and crispy wontons — all essential choices.

No need to fret: The lines at this popular West End ramen spot move quickly, making it well worth the wait — particularly for noodle lovers. Every day, this cozy ramen shop crafts 500 4.4-ounce noodle balls, allowing them to rest for 24 hours before cooking and serving. Originating from Japan, Maruhachi prefers a smooth, rich chicken broth rather than the heavier pork-based tonkotsu. Get ready to be delighted — and don’t skip the egg; it’s known as the best in the city.

Maxine’s has quickly become a local favorite since its 2021 opening, offering fantastic brunch, happy hour, and dinner menus. As a sister restaurant to Homer Street and Tableau, it has firmly secured its place in the Westender dining scene, evidenced by the weekend lines. Diners flock for generous servings of smoked salmon rosti, a delightfully messy smash burger, and a well-curated cocktail and wine selection. Enjoy the sunny patio while observing the bustle of Burrard Street, or relax in a cozy booth and savor your meal from day to night.

Sashimiya, established in 2020, is a hidden gem located at the base of Hornby Street. This casual, fully sustainable grab-and-go sushi and sashimi shop is the first independent venture of sushi master chef Taka Omi after his time at the Fairmont Pacific Rim’s RawBar. Customers can request fresh sashimi sliced to order from the chillers, and a selection of Japanese grocery items is also available. With no seating, patrons can take their beautifully crafted party trays, platters, and bentos to the waterfront for a picnic or opt for delivery.

In a city renowned for its breathtaking views, rooftop bars are surprisingly scarce. However, the Parker Rooftop, located atop the Parker Hotel, aims to transform that experience. Ascend in the elevator and walk through the spacious, living room-inspired restaurant to discover three distinct patios, including a stylish Cabo-inspired beach bar. Join for happy hour or Wine Wednesday when select bottles are half price. Start with sliders or delightful fish and chip cones, and as the sun sets, indulge in an exceptional steak. Conclude your night with classic desserts like baked Alaska for two.

Since the legalization of food trucks in Vancouver a decade ago, they have experienced various ups and downs. While many popular trucks have come and gone, the beloved Japadog remains a staple. It’s always a good idea to visit one of its six food truck locations (including one at the airport) or the original store at the corner of Burrard Street and Smithe Street. Don't miss out on the signature all-beef Terimayo dogs, topped with teriyaki sauce, Japanese mayo, and seaweed—there's a reason this brand has endured. Anthony Bourdain praised this affordable delight on the No Reservations Vancouver episode, wisely stating, “If life has taught us anything, it’s to eat meat in tube form.”

Dynasty features shimmering chandeliers and city views from its first-floor location on West Broadway, serving some of the finest modern Chinese cuisine, thanks to chef Sam Leung. Open daily from 10 a.m. for dim sum, the highlights include the rich barbecue pork cha siu bao with baked lemon and delicate, thin dumplings filled with fresh shrimp, scallops, and black truffles. For dinner, the “24-hours notice” menu offers Cantonese specialties like mushroom-braised duck. While the service is more efficient than warm, the exceptional food more than compensates for it.

Amazing value can be found during cocktail hour at Hawksworth, happening daily from 4 to 6 p.m. This is your chance to enjoy the upscale atmosphere of the restaurant for much less. The bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to snag a spot beneath Damien Hurst’s stunning “Big Love with Diamond Dust.” Enjoy classic cocktails like Negronis, martinis, and Aperol spritzes for just $7, while half a dozen oysters or Hawksworth’s famous KFC (Korean fried cauliflower) are available for only $11. The ultimate deal, however, is the B&B: the acclaimed Hawksworth burger, considered one of the best in Vancouver, paired with either a beer or an Old Fashioned.

Fortunately, the patio established during the Covid era continues at this beloved Yaletown rotisserie cafe and bar, letting guests soak up the sun while exploring a selection of quality European wines, some of the city’s best roast chicken, and delicious sides. Inside, the impressive red Rotisol Grande Flamme Olympia rotisserie spins succulent, free-range chickens and other meats, tempting you to indulge in the Full Monty — a hearty set menu showcasing Homer Street’s signature dishes. Why resist? Go for it!

Hidden on the ground floor of the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel, behind Giovane Caffè, Bacaro is a gem that’s easy to overlook. Venture to the back, and you'll discover an exciting menu of unexpectedly affordable aperitivo snacks. Inspired by Venice's bacari and cicchetti bars that serve wine and small bites, the restaurant features items starting at just $4, like anchovy and chive butter crostini or whipped salt cod with grilled polenta. During aperitivo hour (3 - 6 p.m.), every drink is paired with a complimentary cicchetti. Bacaro also serves exceptional pastas (the flower-like sbocciare is a must-try), house-made and imported salumi, seafood, and an extensive vermouth selection, alongside a cocktail menu rich in spritzes. Conveniently located near many of the city's top attractions and the waterfront, Bacaro welcomes guests all day from 11:30 a.m.

A spin-off from the beloved Haifa Room in Toronto, this delightful establishment unites long-time friends and hospitality experts from Jewish and Palestinian heritages. Situated in the Deloitte Summit tower, the restaurant offers an inviting ambiance reminiscent of a bright office canteen. Enjoy exceptional cocktails (the rosewater paloma is a must-try), attentive service, and a carefully curated wine list. Don't miss the unbelievably crispy Nazareth hot chicken served on a bed of sumac yogurt, the delectable deep-fried creamy Jerusalem artichokes, and the irresistible house labneh topped with black olive crumble and vibrant tomato chermoula. Bar Haifa serves lunch and dinner.

Chef Vikram Vij is a culinary celebrity, known for his role as an investor on the reality show Dragon’s Den and for his acclaimed line of gourmet frozen curries. Alongside chef Meeru Dhalwala, he has established a fine dining Indian restaurant where you can savor exquisite curries made with local ingredients and freshly ground spices, complemented by B.C. wines and creative cocktails. While the pre-pandemic crowd may have included notable figures like ex-Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau or Harrison Ford, reservations are now available to avoid long waits. Be sure to try the lamb popsicles.

Located in one of Vancouver’s most breathtaking event venues, The Permanent is a beautifully restored bank building from 1907 featuring a stunning stained glass atrium, ornate crown moldings, and elegant brass chandeliers. Within the historical vault lies Pretend Wine Bar, where you can explore an exciting range of natural and low-intervention wines by the glass from across the globe, curated by manager Louisa Cohen and bar manager Drew MacDonald, who are passionate about wine and camaraderie. The menu also offers delightful, no-frills snacks like loaded tuna melts and boquerones toast with roasted red pepper ricotta, plus a well-stocked bottle shop for any wines you discover and love at the bar.

Don’t let the dramatic entrance with dripping wax candelabras intimidate you. Ophelia is a warm and inviting modern Mexican restaurant located in the often-overlooked Olympic Village area. Enjoy a fantastic margarita selection, especially during Margarita Mondays, alongside innovative cocktails in a lively space adorned with folk art. Be sure to try the exceptional skirt steak tacos topped with roasted bone marrow and a richly complex burned salsa, or join in for the popular weekend brunch featuring zesty chilaquiles. Don’t miss the tres leches cake with pistachio crumble and lime-infused whipped cream.

Nestled in the whimsically named Blood Alley in Gastown, Is That French boasts some of the finest low-intervention and natural wines in the city. These pair beautifully with freshly shucked oysters, a vibrant raw bar, and inventive small plates inspired by Pacific Northwest flavors using local ingredients and global techniques. The restaurant hosts a lively jazz night every Thursday, along with winemaker dinners and other special events downstairs. Despite the challenges faced by the Gastown neighborhood due to its large houseless population, places like ITF strive to create safe and welcoming environments.

Pidgin artfully combines the rich resources of the Pacific Northwest with French culinary techniques and Asian flavors. While it's an excellent spot for bar snacks—don't miss the city's top gochujang chicken wings—and inventive cocktails featuring unique ingredients like toasted rice rum and gunpowder tea gomme, the prix fixe menu is a must-try, offering seven creative mini courses for just 89 Canadian dollars (around $66) per person. Whisky and sake enthusiasts will find a diverse selection, and the wine list showcases outstanding global options.

This urban winery in the heart of Mount Pleasant is a haven for natty wine enthusiasts, showcasing the magic that occurs when grapes meet natural yeasts. La Fabrique St-George sources grapes from various B.C. wine regions, fermenting them in stunning clay qvevri. With wines that are unfined, unfiltered, and free of additives, you're experiencing nature at its purest. Visit the tasting bar for a glass, or unwind in the bright lounge filled with enticing cheese and charcuterie options, complete with cutlery and boards for your own picnic. The venue also hosts a vibrant schedule of DJs, live music, and occasional operas.

Craving a deliciously gooey smash burger paired with excellent beers? Look no further than Kapow Burger, located within the fantastic Electric Bicycle Brewing, nestled in the vibrant ex-warehouse district of Mount Pleasant. Choose from six towering burger options (including a chicken and a vegetarian sweet potato variety) adorned with toppings like pickled jalapeños and crispy bacon. The Kapow, featuring fried onions and cheese, is wonderfully messy and pairs beautifully with cheesy tater tots and the signature Kapow sauce. In the brewery, enjoy a selection of regular on-tap brews (the Atomic Jam Raspberry Sour is a beloved choice) along with bright, seasonal specials.

Following the closure of the beloved Juice Bar in October, long-time server Lindsay Otto took the reins and rebranded it as Bar Tartare. Situated in the same location as the well-known Birds and the Beets café, the bar offers a selection of unfined, unfiltered, natural, and low-intervention wines from B.C. and beyond. Expect friendly staff to enthusiastically encourage you to 'Try this!' as they pop corks (or twist off caps). As the name suggests, the tartare is a must-try (the bison version is exceptional, bursting with zingy flavors and satisfying crunch), along with nightly specials crafted by a rotating lineup of guest chefs.

Chef Gus Stieffenhofer-Brandson and his team are a formidable force, collecting accolades from a Michelin star in the city's first awards to being named the No. 1 restaurant in Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants of 2022. Reservations fill up quickly (they open 60 days in advance and are gone in hours), so plan ahead or aim for the 5 p.m. seating to experience the magic happening at Published. At $165 ($123 USD) plus tax and tip, the exceptional tasting menu ranks among the city's priciest. If you're looking to save, you can still indulge in the innovative dishes by ordering à la carte or grabbing a snack at the bar, but be mindful that the menu changes frequently.

Suyo features the culinary expertise of former Ancora chef Ricardo Valverde, award-winning bartender Max Curzon-Price from Botanist, and seasoned front-of-house professional James Reynolds. The menu at this Main Street Mytoury is a reflection of its talented team: outstanding ingredients come together to create an exceptional dining experience. Since its opening in summer 2022, Suyo has been a hot spot, instantly drawing crowds with its modern interpretation of Peruvian cuisine, which looks, tastes, and smells refreshingly unique compared to anything else in the city. Main dishes are priced around $50-60, so treat yourself if possible, or visit the intimate bar for inventive cocktails inspired by Peru’s diverse cultures and landscapes, paired with exquisite charred octopus and vibrant ceviche.

Tannis Ling, formerly of Chambar, has teamed up with chef Joël Watanabe, who infuses his Corsican-Japanese heritage into this bustling Chinatown spot. While it may present itself as a trendy Chinese brasserie, the sounds of woks in action highlight its commitment to traditional cooking methods. The shareable plates are generously portioned, and the cocktails are thoughtfully designed. True to Vancouver's ethos, all meats are sourced locally and ethically, free from hormones and chemicals. Be sure to try local favorite Helen’s exquisite hand-made potstickers and dumplings—she produces hundreds of perfect dumplings daily—and don’t overlook the aptly named Kick Ass House-Fried Rice.

Andrea Carlson's impressive background includes tenures at renowned establishments that define Vancouver's commitment to fresh, local, and sustainable cuisine: C, Raincity Grill, Sooke Harbour House, and Bishop’s, among others. At her Michelin-starred restaurant, Burdock & Co, you’ll experience a prime example of casual fine dining focused on British Columbia's bounty. The tasting menu features locavore, ultra-seasonal dishes that harmonize beautifully with the carefully curated natural wine list. While favorites on the five-course menu may change, be sure to order the beloved buttermilk fried chicken dusted with dill pickle powder, or indulge in sustainably sourced Northern Divine sturgeon caviar served with tater tots and a shot of aquavit.

This cozy vegetarian and vegan restaurant showcases local produce in a softly lit setting, complemented by hipster tunes in the vibrant Main Street area. The menu changes frequently, except for the must-try halloumi encased in a delicate beer batter, highlighting the region's seasonal offerings. The wine list features many lesser-known biodynamic selections, and the non-alcoholic drinks receive equal attention as the impressive cocktails. If you can’t snag a dinner reservation, consider the weekend brunch, which includes eggs and granola alongside unique dishes like bok choy with Espelette pepper, nam jim, plum hoisin, and puffed wild rice.

For years, dining at this stylish Vietnamese favorite in Main required a wait. In response to the pandemic, Anh and Chi started accepting reservations with a $10 donation to charity. Every dish on the menu bursts with fresh flavors and maintains perfect spice balance. Portions are ample, making it ideal to order a variety for the table. Don’t miss the custardy bánh khot prawn cakes wrapped in crispy rice and the fun DIY platter of khay bánh hỏi lụi nướng. Takeout is also a great option, allowing you to enjoy their excellent wine selection at half price.

This highly anticipated neighborhood tapas bar, opened by industry veterans in late 2018, received outstanding reviews, securing the No. 2 spot on Air Canada’s enRoute Best New Restaurant of the Year list in 2019, along with numerous local accolades. Cómo offers a delightful experience with on-tap vermouth and bone-dry fino sherry, complimentary tapas at the bar during happy hour with any drink purchase (4-5 p.m.), excellent hard cheeses, and crispy patatas bravas drizzled with mayo and spicy tomato sauce. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, supported by cheerful, efficient service. Reservations are available for the main dining area, while the patio operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Enjoy a brief Spanish escape at the stylish bar before returning to Vancouver.

This laid-back wine bar, a sibling to the acclaimed Published on Main, started as a pop-up and has now become a beloved destination, featuring a sunny patio on East 6th. The stunning space showcases chef de cuisine Justin Golangco’s diverse menu, which spans from pan-European to pan-Asian influences, incorporating ingredients like aonori, caperberries, and bruschetta at different times. Complementing the menu is a constantly evolving selection of low-intervention wines, amari, cocktails, and vermouth, all curated by wine lead Stephanie Alishan, who previously worked with London’s Super 8 Restaurant group.

Situated in Chinatown and filled with vintage video games, this unique venue merges Japanese and Mexican flavors. The chashu-style carnitas create wonderfully messy tacos, featuring succulent pork with just the right amount of fat paired with a tangy pineapple relish. Don’t miss the kimchi-nacho fries topped with birria and a fried egg, and of course, enhance your birria-dilla with instant ramen in the consomé. They also host a daily happy hour offering affordable cocktails, tacos, and an intriguing pairing of shrimp crackers with guacamole.

Nestled at the edge of Chinatown, this slender Mytoury features some of the city's most intriguing wine selections by the glass, highlighting low-intervention and terroir-driven varieties from both local and international vineyards. Whether you're sipping an amber wine from Georgia or a refreshing pinot noir from Vancouver Island, Peter Van de Reep, the 2020 Best Sommelier of BC, is on hand to guide you in pairing the perfect wine with the reasonably priced prix fixe three-course menu. Don’t miss out on the creamy Kewpie-spiked deviled eggs, topped with irresistibly salty, crispy anchovies, if they're available.

Having earned a Michelin star in Vancouver’s first-ever awards, Kissa Tanto expertly merges Japanese and Italian cuisines within its vibrant second-floor location in Chinatown, just a short walk from its popular sister restaurant, Bao Bei. The concise menu tempts you to try everything, featuring handmade pasta, a stunning whole fish served hot and crispy with a daikon-soy dipping sauce, and a deceptively simple salad that beautifully combines kombu dashi with pecorino. Reservations are a must.

This popular Vietnamese-Cambodian Mytoury in Chinatown has long had diners queuing outside, but after earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand, the buzz has only grown. The extensive menu can be overwhelming, so skip the stress and go for the crispy deep-fried chicken wings with a fantastic dipping sauce, the visually stunning thit bò butter beef platter, and the flavorful beef lúc lắc served with egg and rice. And yes, adding garlic squid is a must. Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the wait.

This enticing wine bar, café, and grocery on Commercial Drive offers some of the finest pasta in the city, thriving in a neighborhood experiencing a revival, partly due to its vibrant patio culture during the pandemic. With three menus spanning brunch, aperitivo, and dinner, you can't miss the indulgent muffuletta sandwich and the exquisite agnolotti filled with chicken and pork in rich, buttery roasting juices, garnished with crispy sage. Complete your meal with Italian wines, spritzes, and amari (consider a flight). The grocery section has house-made sauces, breads, and pastas for at-home cooking, alongside imported olive oils, bottled cocktails, amarena cherries, and other delightful pantry staples.

Craft distilling is a relatively new endeavor in B.C., thanks to outdated post-prohibition laws that were updated in 2013. Odd Society was among the pioneers of this new wave of distilleries and has become a beloved destination known for consistently producing high-quality craft spirits, including gin, vodka, vermouth, and whisky. Visit their charming cocktail lounge in East Van, set in a converted motorbike garage, where you can sample some spirits before venturing into the nearby breweries of 'Yeast Van.'

A refreshing fall afternoon is ideal for people-watching on Havana’s expansive patio on the Drive. With an extensive selection of rum, mezcal, and tequila cocktails, this vibrant local favorite also offers some of the finest nonalcoholic drinks in the city (don't miss the salted cucumber 'margarita') to pair with crispy plantain chips and chunky guacamole. The bustling happy hours, packed brunch (free pancakes for kids 8 and under until 11 a.m.), and reasonably priced Latin American dishes, from tacos to Cubanos, have made this beloved spot a staple for nearly 30 years.

Head over to Hastings-Sunrise for a delightful experience at Dachi, known for its warm hospitality, fun low-intervention wines, and sake, along with a menu of seasonal small plates that range from fresh kale buds to decadent tonkatsu-fried pork cutlets. During summer, the lively patio on East Hastings Street is the place to be, but as fall and winter approach, guests retreat indoors. Dachi truly embodies neighborhood spirit, with locals frequently stopping by for offerings from the ever-evolving bottle shop. Next door, the team runs Mucker Next Door, which sells unique homewares, artful wine magazines and books, aromatic beef fat from sister-restaurant Elephant, and stylish rose gold cake servers.