Welcome to Vancouver, where the food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you’re a fan of buttery croissants, mouthwatering sushi, or a hearty bowl of poutine, this city has something for everyone. Here’s our personal foodie guide to point you to the best places to eat, sip, and indulge in Vancouver.
1. AnnaLena (West Coast) – $150
Story: This Kitsilano gem offers a tasting menu only, making every meal a curated journey through their inventive, award-winning West Coast cuisine. Awarded Vancouver Magazine’s 2023 Restaurant of the Year, AnnaLena masterfully balances creativity with fun. My favorite restaurant in the city – if I have to choose just one!
Must-Try Dish: You don’t choose—let the chefs work their magic. The tasting menu changes frequently, but every bite is worth savoring.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation. The buzz here is real, and tables fill fast!
source: annalena.ca
2. Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar (Seafood) – $100
Story: Boulevard redefines Pacific Northwest cuisine with its focus on fresh, local ingredients. It’s elegant but not stuffy—perfect for a fancy night out.
Must-Try Dish: Seafood Tower—an indulgent selection of oysters, mussel escabèche, snow crab, and more. We also love their cornbread and clam chowder. Leave room for dessert – they make some of the best in Vancouver.
Pro Tip: Swing by for happy hour to sample their famous oysters at a discount.
source: boulevardvancouver.ca
3. Dynasty Seafood (Chinese) – $60
Story: Dim sum heaven meets Cantonese fine dining at this Broadway staple. Known for ultra-fresh seafood, Dynasty is perfect for family-style feasting.
Must-Try Dish: XO Sauce Stir-Fried Lobster—a dish that will haunt your foodie dreams.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation. They are almost always booked out.
source: dynasty-restaurant.ca
4. Phnom Penh (Vietnamese-Cambodian) – $40
Story: Nestled in Chinatown, Phnom Penh has been a Vancouver institution for decades. People come from all over for its bold Southeast Asian flavors.
Must-Try Dish: Butter Beef and Garlic Chicken Wings—trust me, you’ll be licking your fingers.
Pro Tip: They only take reservations for groups of six of more – so get a few friends together to enjoy. Otherwise, wait time is often 2-3 hours.
source: phnompenhrestaurant.ca
5. Nightingale (Canadian) – $70
Story: Chef David Hawksworth’s take on casual dining, Nightingale serves globally inspired small plates in a sleek, stylish setting.
Must-Try Dish: Manila Clam Spaghetti, and Beet Salad with Orange and Whipped Feta — it’s so good you’ll be savoring these long after the meal
Pro Tip: Perfect for sharing, so bring a group and try a bit of everything.
source: hawknightingale.com
6. Nemesis Coffee (Brunch & Coffee) – $10–20
Story: This hip coffee spot isn’t just about the caffeine. Nemesis pairs their expertly brewed coffee with artisanal pastries and all-day brunch.
Must-Try Dish: The Duck Confit Hash—savory, crispy, and ridiculously satisfying.
Pro Tip: Order their signature pour-over coffee for the full experience.
source: instagram.com/nemesis.coffee/
7. Miku Vancouver (Japanese) – $80
Story: Known for its flame-seared Aburi sushi, Miku offers a fresh take on traditional Japanese flavors.
Must-Try Dish: The Aburi Oshi Sushi, especially the salmon version, is iconic for a reason.
Pro Tip: Save room for dessert—their matcha opera cake is divine.
source: mikurestaurant.com
8. La Belle Patate (Poutine) – $10–20
Story: Nothing says comfort food like poutine, and La Belle Patate does it best with authentic Quebecois style.
Must-Try Dish: Smoked Meat Poutine—cheese curds, gravy, and tender smoked meat in every bite.
Pro Tip: Open late, so it’s perfect for those post-bar cravings.
source: westcoastpoutine.wixsite.com/labellepatatevan
9. Dosa Corner (Indian) – $20–30
Story: This unassuming spot on Fraser Street serves authentic South Indian cuisine, and their dosas are the stuff of legends.
Must-Try Dish: The Lamb Chettinad with House Dosa—rich, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying.
Pro Tip: If you can’t handle spice, ask them to tone it down while ordering.
source: dosacorner.ca
10. Mnimes Restaurant & Bar (Greek) – $50
Story: A cozy spot with a modern twist on traditional Greek dishes, Mnimes brings bold Mediterranean flavors to Victoria Drive.
Must-Try Dish: Roasted Lamb Shoulder—juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned.
Pro Tip: Enjoy the house-baked Sourdough—it’s ridiculously good.
source: mnimesrestaurantbar.ca
11. Kozak (Ukrainian) – $20–30
Story: Kozak celebrates the heart and soul of Ukrainian cuisine with hearty, home-style dishes.
Must-Try Dish: Their Potato and Dill Perogies, and Borscht—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Pro Tip: Perfect for a cozy lunch on a rainy Vancouver day.
source: foodietours.ca
12. La Taqueria (Mexican) – $15–25
Story: Bright, cheerful, and packed with flavor, this spot is all about authentic Mexican tacos with a West Coast twist.
Must-Try Dish: The Baja Fish Taco—crispy, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Pro Tip: Grab a margarita to go with your tacos—you won’t regret it.
source: instagram.com/lataqueria/
Whether you’re in the mood for dim sum, sushi, or a late-night poutine fix, Vancouver’s got you covered. Happy eating, and don’t forget to share your foodie adventures!
