Best Restaurants in Vancouver That You Must Try

September 26, 2024

Welcome to Vancouver, a city where the vibrant culinary scene matches the breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're visiting for the stunning views or the diverse culture, Vancouver offers a rich array of dining options that cater to every palate. From fresh Pacific seafood to international flavours, this guide will introduce you to some of the top restaurants in Vancouver, making it easy to find the perfect spot for a memorable meal during your stay.

1. Blue Water Café

  • Location: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4
  • Cuisine: Seafood

As one of the top seafood restaurants in Vancouver, Blue Water Café is perfect for lovers of fresh, sustainable seafood. The restaurant offers a wide selection of Pacific Northwest fish and shellfish, as well as an impressive sushi bar. It’s a prime choice for those looking to experience the true essence of Vancouver’s coastal cuisine.

2. CPrime Modern Italian Steak & Wine

  • Location: 1015 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y5
  • Cuisine: Italian, Steakhouse

CPrime offers an upscale dining experience if you love modern Italian cuisine and premium steaks. Their wine list is extensive, making it an excellent spot for a special dinner or a business meeting. The ambiance is sophisticated yet welcoming, and the dishes are crafted with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

3. Kissa Tanto

  • Location: 263 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T8
  • Cuisine: Japanese-Italian Fusion

Kissa Tanto blends Japanese and Italian culinary traditions in a cozy, intimate setting. Known for dishes like its signature Tajarin (Japanese-inspired pasta) and creative cocktails, it’s a unique dining spot that never fails to impress. The eclectic menu and stylish ambiance make it a standout in Vancouver’s dining scene.

4. AnnaLena

  • Location: 1809 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8
  • Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian

AnnaLena is a Michelin-star restaurant known for its artful presentation and modern take on Canadian cuisine. You won’t find formal dining here, but what you will find is one of Vancouver's most refined and flavorful experiences. The service is smooth, cocktails are expertly crafted, and the wine pairings are spot-on. But it's the ever-changing, seasonal menu that truly stands out, offering dishes that showcase global flavours and local ingredients. 

5. Phnom Penh

  • Location: 244 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1Z7
  • Cuisine: Cambodian, Vietnamese

Phnom Penh is a local favourite for Cambodian and Vietnamese dishes, including its famous chicken wings and butter beef. Located in the heart of Chinatown, this casual eatery consistently draws crowds, offering affordable yet incredibly flavorful meals that satisfy every palate.

6. Masayoshi

  • Location: 4376 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5V 4G3
  • Cuisine: Japanese, Omakase

For sushi aficionados, Masayoshi offers an authentic omakase experience where the chef selects your meal based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. This intimate restaurant focuses on quality over quantity, offering a personalized dining experience that celebrates the artistry of Japanese cuisine.

7. The Acorn

  • Location: 3995 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P3
  • Cuisine: Vegetarian, Vegan

The Acorn is one of Vancouver’s most beloved vegetarian restaurants, known for its innovative, plant-based dishes. The menu changes frequently to showcase seasonal vegetables, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to explore creative, meat-free options.

8. Miku

  • Location: 200 Granville St #70, Vancouver, BC V6C 1S4
  • Cuisine: Japanese, Sushi

Miku is a go-to destination for sushi lovers, especially those seeking Vancouver’s famous aburi-style (flame-seared) sushi. Located along the waterfront, this restaurant offers both stunning views and exceptional food, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special night out.

9. Hawksworth

  • Location: 801 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1P7
  • Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian

Hawksworth offers a fine dining experience with a menu that highlights contemporary Canadian cuisine. Located in the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, this award-winning restaurant combines sophisticated interiors with innovative dishes that showcase local ingredients. It’s ideal for those looking to indulge in an elegant dining experience.

10. Chambar

  • Location: 568 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2L3
  • Cuisine: Belgian, French

Chambar is a well-loved spot offering Belgian-inspired dishes in a casual yet elegant setting. With its flavorful moules frites and house-made waffles, this restaurant perfectly balances indulgence and refinement. Chambar’s downtown location makes it an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner, and it’s often listed among the best places to dine in Vancouver.

11. L'Abattoir

  • Location: 217 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2J2
  • Cuisine: French, Pacific Northwest

Located in Gastown, L'Abattoir is a stylish eatery offering French-inspired cuisine with a West Coast twist. Its innovative menu has made it a hit among foodies looking for a blend of sophistication and rustic charm. It’s a top spot for those looking to enjoy one of the best restaurants in Vancouver BC.

12. Nightingale

  • Location: 1017 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0C4
  • Cuisine: Modern Canadian

Nightingale is known for its wood-fired pizzas and shared plates, making it a great option for group dining. With a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, this casual yet trendy spot offers a wide range of dishes that highlight the best of modern Canadian cuisine. Located in Coal Harbour, Nightingale is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

13. The Botanist

  • Location: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9 (Fairmont Pacific Rim)
  • Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian

Located in the Fairmont Pacific Rim, The Botanist is known for its modern take on Canadian cuisine with a heavy emphasis on plant-based ingredients and sustainability. The beautifully designed interior and botanical cocktails make it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy fine dining in a lush, Instagram-worthy setting.

14. Ask for Luigi

  • Location: 305 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1C4
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ask for Luigi is a cozy Italian restaurant specializing in handmade pasta and classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. The intimate, relaxed atmosphere makes it one of the best places to dine in Vancouver for a casual yet delicious meal. The restaurant’s popularity means reservations are highly recommended.

15. Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar

  • Location: 845 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K6
  • Cuisine: Seafood, Contemporary Canadian

This stylish and spacious oyster bar offers one of the best West Coast seafood experiences in downtown Vancouver. Whether you're here for the fresh daily selection of oysters or the diverse, inventive menu, there's something for every seafood lover. It truly is one of the best restaurants in Vancouver for a relaxed yet refined dining experience, perfect for seafood enthusiasts.

Also Checkout The Best Places in Vancouver To Visit

Conclusion: Vancouver’s Dining Scene Has Something for Everyone

Vancouver is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and hidden gems that showcase the city’s diverse culinary landscape. From sushi bars to Italian bistros, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to the best restaurants in Vancouver BC. Whether you're looking to explore innovative Canadian cuisine or enjoy authentic international dishes while you stay in Vancouver, the city has something for everyone. Make sure to plan ahead and book a table, especially at some of the city’s most popular spots, to ensure you have an unforgettable culinary experience.

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