I’ve been to Vancouver more times than I can remember, and every single trip starts the same way. I land, drop my bags, and immediately start thinking about food.
During my first few visits, I spent more time stressing about the best restaurants in Vancouver than choosing where to sleep. With the winter season and world cup bringing in a wave of new visitors, many of you will relate to this soon.
And if you’re anyone like me, those first few days in a new city will surely feel like a food race. Online recommendations somehow make everything even more confusing.
These top restaurants in Vancouver will definitely make your meal choices a lot easier!
Table of Content
- My Top 3 Restaurants in Vancouver
- Must-Visit Restaurants in Vancouver for First-Timers
- Vancouver’s Best Restaurants for Brunch, Coffee, and Casual Hangouts
- Jam Cafe (4.5/5)
- Top Spots for Seafood, Sushi, and Local Flavors in Vancouver
- Family-Friendly Restaurants in Vancouver
- 24-Hour Restaurants in Vancouver
- Vegan Restaurants in Vancouver
- Halal Restaurants in Vancouver, British Columbia
- Best Pubs and Craft Beer in Vancouver
- Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Vancouver
- Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Vancouver
- Best Restaurants Near Popular Vancouver Landmarks (Near BC Place Stadium)
- Authentic International Cuisine in Vancouver
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
- More Related Blogs From Travel Recommendations
My Top 3 Restaurants in Vancouver
| Restaurant | Description |
|---|---|
| Miku Vancouver | The waterfront view alone is worth it, but the aburi sushi? Unforgettable. |
| Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar | Fresh, flavourful seafood in a lively downtown setting that feels perfect for a memorable Vancouver meal. |
| St. Lawrence | For deeply comforting French-Canadian dishes served with true fine-dining excellence. |
Must-Visit Restaurants in Vancouver for First-Timers
Miku Vancouver (4.6/5)
I still remember my first meal at Miku. The aburi sushi came out glowing, lightly torched, with flavors that were delicate but powerful at the same time. The salmon sushi absolutely melted on my tongue. Every piece felt like someone actually cared about what we were tasting.
If you’re looking for top dining spots in Vancouver with a view that matches the food, this is it. Miku sits right at 200 Granville St, and lunch typically runs CA$30–75+, depending on what you order. For dinner or premium tasting menus, the range may extend. Book ahead, especially on weekends, and request a window seat if you can.
Blue Water Cafe (4.7/5)
My sister visited Vancouver last spring and wouldn’t stop praising the Blue Water Cafe. So when I finally went, I understood why. This Yaletown dining spot has become one of the most talked-about places in Vancouver’s culinary guide.The raw bar alone is a showstopper.
Oysters on ice, smoked tuna, octopus carpaccio, everything tasted like it came straight from the ocean that morning. The sablefish was buttery and perfectly cooked. Even the ambience felt polished. The restaurant sits at 1095 Hamilton St in Yaletown, one of the best neighborhoods for upscale Vancouver restaurants.
You’ll spend around CA$60 to CA$135 and up per person depending on your choices. It’s pricey, but if you’re after the best seafood restaurants Vancouver has to offer, this one earns every dollar. Dinner slots fill fast, so bar seating works well if you’re walking in without a reservation.
Café Medina (4.5/5)
Café Medina is one of those best brunch spots in Vancouver that locals protect like a secret, but everyone already knows about it. The Belgian waffles come with lavender honey and dark chocolate, and they’re so good you’ll want to order a second round just to try the lemon curd version.
The space is lively, filled with the hum of weekend conversation. Even the coffee felt dialed in. So, if you’re searching for the best brunch in Vancouver, this is the one that leaves you full and happy. It’s located downtown, and most meals run CA$12–30 per person.
Vancouver’s Best Restaurants for Brunch, Coffee, and Casual Hangouts
Jam Cafe (4.5/5)
My partner has been to Jam Cafe at least five times, and every visit ends the same way. Stuffed and smiling. The portions are massive. The chicken and waffles come with crispy fried chicken, real maple syrup, and a side of bacon that could feed two people.
The vibe is energetic, and packed on weekends. But the food makes the wait worthwhile. Jam Cafe has multiple locations, but the one at Beatty St is popular. Most meals run CA$18–40 per person, and mid-week visits mean shorter waits.
Revolver Coffee (4.6/5)
Revolver Coffee is tiny but serves some of the best coffee in Vancouver. The baristas know what they’re doing. The espresso is smooth and the filter coffee is clean. It’s not a place to sit for hours because space is limited. But if you care about quality over ambience, this is your spot in Gastown. Most drinks here run CA$4–8.
Top Spots for Seafood, Sushi, and Local Flavors in Vancouver
Minami Restaurant (4.5/5)
Minami is where my family goes when someone wants sushi that feels a little more special. The aburi salmon here is buttery and just torched enough to bring out the richness. The space feels perfect for a nice dinner place in Vancouver without the stiffness of fine dining. It’s located at 1118 Mainland St in Yaletown, and most meals run CA$31–50+ per person.
The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant (4.4/5)
After spending afternoons wandering Granville Island Market, we ended up at The Sandbar for dinner countless times. The waterfront view is gorgeous, especially at sunset. Their grilled salmon is my favorite, it comes with seasonal veggies and tastes exactly like West Coast seafood should.
Their mains typically run CA$16–43+. Sunset hours are beautiful, so request a window seat if you can. It’s one of those best Vancouver dining options that feels effortless.
Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar (4.5/5)
Boulevard Kitchen sits quietly on Burrard Street, but inside it’s anything but quiet. The energy is warm, the oyster selection is impressive, and the whole space feels like downtown Vancouver dining done right. My friend brought me here after a long day exploring Gastown restaurants and other Vancouver food spots.
We started with a dozen oysters, each one briny and fresh, served with mignonette that had just the right kick. The seafood tower is massive if you’re coming with a group, it’s stacked high with crab, prawns, and more oysters than you can count.
Most seafood mains run CA$30 to CA$50, with the seafood tower pushing closer to CA$80 and up for two people. It’s located at 845 Burrard St, and reservations help during peak dinner hours.
Family-Friendly Restaurants in Vancouver
Go Fish (4.5/5)
Go Fish is a tiny spot right by the water, and it’s perfect for families or anyone who wants something simple and delicious. Their fish and chips are crispy and fresh, with perfectly cooked halibut inside. There’s outdoor seating only, so dress for the weather. It’s located at 1505 W 1st Ave near Granville Island, and most items run CA$11–20, with full meals averaging CA$12–25 per person.
Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House (4.5/5)
Joe Fortes is a Vancouver classic. The oyster bar is always buzzing, the seafood towers are massive. The whole place has this old-school charm. My sister took her kids there last summer, and they loved the rooftop patio. The menu has something for everyone like steak, seafood, salads, pasta etc.
It’s one of the best family friendly restaurants in Vancouver that fits even for the simplest occasions. It’s located downtown and expect to spend CA$50–100+ per person for a full meal with drinks or dessert. It’s one of those popular dining spots in Vancouver that delivers every time!
Hawksworth Restaurant (4.6/5)
Hawksworth Restaurant inside the Rosewood Hotel Georgia is where Vancouver’s fine dining scene shows what it can really do.The dining room feels elegant but never stuffy. High ceilings, soft lighting, and service that knows exactly when to appear and when to give you space.
Chef Hawksworth’s menu focuses on contemporary Canadian cuisine with French techniques, and every dish comes out looking like art. Expect to spend CA$60 to CA$100+ per person for dinner. The price and quality makes it one of the most premium Vancouver dining experiences for families. It’s located at 801 W Georgia St in downtown, and booking weeks ahead is smart.
24-Hour Restaurants in Vancouver
The Naam (4.3/5)
I actually found it by accident once while rushing to catch a late-night flight. But since that day, it has become my late-night favourite every time I visit Vancouver. The tofu stir-fry is hearty and their miso gravy is something people either love or find completely addictive (I’m in the second camp). The space is casual, with a laid-back Kitsilano vibe. It’s located at 2724 W 4th Ave and most mains run CA$16–25.
Vegan Restaurants in Vancouver
The Acorn (4.5/5)
The Acorn is where plant-based food stops feeling like a compromise. My partner and I went for our anniversary once, and the tasting menu was stunning. The cocktails were creative, the service was attentive, and the whole experience felt thoughtful.
It’s one of the best vegan restaurants in Vancouver, and it appeals to everyone, not just people avoiding meat. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
Viet Family The Vegan House (4.8/5)
Viet Family The Vegan House serves the kind of food that makes you forget it’s all plant-based. The space is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner. It’s located at 1414 Commercial Dr, and most dishes run CA$18–20. Walk-ins work, but calling ahead helps.
Halal Restaurants in Vancouver, British Columbia
Tashkent Uzbek Cuisine (4.7/5)
My friend introduced me to Tashkent, and it’s become one of my go-to spots for something different. The setting is casual, but the food has depth and authenticity. It’s a great option for anyone searching for the best halal food in Vancouver with generous portions. It is located at the International Village Mall and is closed on Mondays.
Zamzam Grill (4.8/5)
Zamzam Grill is a fully halal spot in Vancouver that works well when you’re craving Middle Eastern comfort food. The menu covers shawarma, kababs, beef gyro, falafel, and fresh salads, all paired with classic sides like hummus, tabbouleh, rice, or fries.
The setting is casual and comfortable. Located at 2128 Kingsway, it’s a reliable pick when you want flavour-packed halal food that feels homey without leaning too Desi or overly fancy.
Best Pubs and Craft Beer in Vancouver
Alibi Room (4.5/5)
The Alibi Room is where you go when you actually care about beer. The tap list rotates constantly and features local breweries and seasonal releases that you won’t find at most other bars. The food is solid too. Duck poutine, mac and cheese, and other comfort plates that pair perfectly with whatever’s on tap.
The space is relaxed and neighborhood-focused, the kind of place where regulars chat with bartenders and newcomers feel welcome from the first sip. Located at 157 Alexander St in Gastown, beers run CA$7.25 to CA$9.75, and food runs CA$12 to CA$20. Reservations help on weekends. It’s one of the best craft beer spots in Vancouver, and it feels authentically local in a way that’s hard to fake.
Brassneck Brewery (4.6/5)
Brassneck is a small brewery with a big reputation. The staff are happy to let you sample before committing to a full pour. It’s one of those local favorites that feels more like hanging out with friends than visiting a bar.
Beers here run CA$6 to CA$9, and snacks run CA$3 to CA$12. No reservations needed. Just show up, grab a seat if there’s one available, and enjoy whatever experimental brew they’ve cooked up that week. It’s a must for anyone exploring Vancouver’s craft beer places seriously.
Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Vancouver
Meat & Bread (4.5/5)
Meat & Bread does one thing really well, and that’s roast meat sandwiches. The porchetta is legendary. Crispy skin, tender meat, salsa verde, all piled on fresh bread that soaks up the juices without falling apart. It’s filling, fast, and under CA$20. If you’re looking for affordable restaurants visitors can count on without sacrificing quality, this is a solid pick that won’t disappoint.
They have multiple locations and their sandwiches run CA$12 to CA$18. Lunch gets busy, so going early means faster service and a better chance of snagging a table. It’s one of those quick lunch spots in Vancouver where you know exactly what you’re getting, and it’s always good.
Phnom Penh (4.4/5)
Phnom Penh is a Vancouver institution. The butter beef is rich and savory, with tender slices that practically melt in your mouth. The crispy chicken wings are addictive, with a garlic glaze that keeps you reaching for just one more. The portions are generous, and the prices are fair enough that you can bring friends without worrying about the bill.
Expect to spend CA$15 to CA$30 per person. It’s walk-in only, so visiting early helps you avoid long waits. It’s one of those places where the line out the door tells you everything you need to know. My family has been going there for years, and we’ve never had a bad meal.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Vancouver
Kissa Tanto (4.5/5)
Kissa Tanto is special in a way that’s hard to describe until you’ve been there. The space is intimate, the service is warm, and the food is inventive without being pretentious. The eggplant parm with miso is rich and comforting, blending Italian soul with Japanese precision. The hamachi crudo has this bright, citrusy kick that wakes up your palate with every bite.
It’s one of the best restaurants in Vancouver for a celebration or a night you want to remember. Located at 263 E Pender St in Chinatown, expect to spend CA$100 and up per person, with tasting menus starting at CA$112 and up. Book weeks ahead because tables disappear fast.
St. Lawrence (4.7/5)
St. Lawrence is everything fine dining should be. Warm, delicious, and worth the price without making you feel like you’re overpaying for tiny portions and fancy plating. Every dish here feels both comforting and refined, like someone took classic French-Canadian cooking and elevated it without losing the soul.
If you’re visiting, expect CA$125 to CA$148 per person. Reserve weeks ahead and monitor for cancellations if your first choice of date doesn’t work out. It’s one of the toughest reservations in the city, but if you can get in, it’s worth the effort.
Best Restaurants Near Popular Vancouver Landmarks (Near BC Place Stadium)
Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market (4.5/5)
Fanny Bay is perfect before or after an event at BC Place. The oysters are fresh and briny, shucked to order and served on ice with just the right accompaniments. The shellfish towers are impressive without being over the top, and the whole menu feels tied to Vancouver’s coastal identity in a way that makes sense with every bite.
Located at 762 Cambie St, small plates run CA$17 to CA$20, and mains and seafood towers run CA$30 to CA$60 and up. Book ahead on event nights because game days fill up fast. It’s one of the best seafood places in the city that’s also incredibly convenient when you need something good without straying too far from the stadium.
Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar (4.3/5)
Frankie’s is the kind of place you go when you want something warm, familiar, and comforting before or after a game. The pasta is made in-house, the sauces feel balanced, and the mains stay true to classic Italian flavours that work for every age group.
Located at 765 Beatty St, it’s only a short walk from BC Place, so it fits easily into any match-day plan. Pasta and pizza sit in the CA$16 to CA$25 range, while mains usually fall between CA$30 and CA$45. If you’re heading there on a game night, make a reservation or show up early because the dining room fills up quickly.
Authentic International Cuisine in Vancouver
Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie (4.4/5)
Bao Bei brought modern Chinese dining to Vancouver’s Chinatown back in 2010, and it’s still packed nearly every night. The space is dark, intimate, and feels more like a Shanghai jazz bar than a typical Vancouver eatery. The menu is designed for sharing. We ordered the Chinese pickles to start, then moved into their famous Szechuan alligator gar and the steamed pork belly bao.
Every dish had layers of flavor. Spicy but balanced, rich but not heavy. The cocktail program is creative too. Their Eastern Promises with gin, cucumber, and jasmine tea became my drink of choice by the end of the night.Prices are reasonable for the quality. Most small plates run CA$12 to CA$18, and mains go up to CA$30.
It’s located at 163 Keefer St in Chinatown, and you’ll want to book ahead. Walk-ins sometimes work at the bar if you’re flexible on timing. This is one of those best Gastown and Chinatown restaurants where Vancouver’s food culture really shines.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a perfect plan to eat well in Vancouver. The city does a lot of the heavy lifting for you. These spots leave an impression without trying too hard. The common thread is simple, good food that makes the money, the hype, and the time feel justified. Pick one based on your mood, and chances are, you’ll end up with a new favorite that you’ll want to come back to next time you’re in town!
FAQs
For a memorable first meal, I would recommend Miku, Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar and St. Lawrence for French-Canadian fine dining. These restaurants are search magnets for “best restaurants Vancouver” and loved by locals & tourists alike.
Yes, for popular dinner spots and tasting menus, book ahead. Walk-in bar seats sometimes work for seafood and raw-bar places. But large groups and premium tasting menus almost always need reservations.
I would recommend Café Medina and Jam Café for classic brunch searches, plus Revolver Coffee for quality coffee and espresso.
Yes, the Acorn and Viet Family/The Vegan House for plant-based dining. Zamzam Grill and Tashkent for halal comfort options. Family picks include Go Fish and Joe Fortes.
Budget picks like Meat & Bread and Phnom Penh deliver big portions and strong flavours without any high price tags. Both are consistently recommended by locals looking for quality meals under CA$20–30.
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