Vancouver is a dream for anyone who travels to eat. The city’s food scene is so diverse and creative — you can walk into a ramen shop for lunch and find yourself at a sleek seafood bar by dinner.
Locals are serious about good ingredients, and you’ll taste it, whether you’re picking up a pastry or digging into West Coast classics. If you’re hunting for indie gems, ethnic eats, or straight-up legendary coffee, this city delivers.
Let’s get into my absolute favorite ways to eat your way around Vancouver.
What to Eat in Vancouver
Salmon Candy
This sweet-savory smoked salmon is coated in maple syrup and smoked low and slow. You’ll spot it at lots of local markets — seriously, just ask for “salmon candy.” It started with First Nations but now it’s a snack for everyone.
So good with cold beer or a local cider.
Japadog
Picture a hot dog topped with teriyaki sauce, mayo, and toasted seaweed. Japadog trucks are downtown icons for a reason — it’s cheap, weird, and fantastic.
The line’s worth it. And, honestly, you’ll crave it again once you leave.
Butter Chicken Pizza
Vancouver’s got this perfect mashup: Indian-style pizza with creamy butter chicken sauce, cheese, and crisp crust. You’ll see it on menus all over town.
A little spicy, super cheesy, and totally addictive.
Poutine (with a BC twist)
Poutine’s everywhere in Canada, but here it’s often upgraded with wild mushrooms or local salmon. Crispy fries, melty cheese curds, savory gravy — it’s comfort food at its best.
Plenty of pubs and cafés serve their signature version.
Spot Prawns
Don’t skip BC spot prawns if you visit during spring or early summer. They’re sweet, juicy, and only here for a quick season.
Most seafood spots do their own killer take during spot prawn season.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Vancouver
Main Street/Mount Pleasant
If you love variety, hit Main Street. Small indie joints line the street — Vietnamese, vegan, brunch, pizza, you name it. This area’s young and buzzy, packed with funky brunch cafés and offbeat bars.
A good spot for people-watching and the occasional food truck feast.
Gastown
Gastown mixes cobblestone streets with some of the city’s best kitchens. Think creative happy hour bites, top-tier coffee, and cocktail spots in cozy brick buildings.
Take a post-lunch stroll and check out local design shops.
Commercial Drive
This neighbourhood’s got Italian delis, funky brewers, and Latin American gems. Grab a casual bite or catch live music after.
It’s colorful, packed with regulars, and feels super local.
Kitsilano
Kits is your spot for West Coast seafood, chill cafés, and incredible ocean views. Pick up brunch, walk the beach, and sample from bakeries along West 4th.
Very laid-back but never boring.
Chinatown
Chinatown is Vancouver’s late-night snack capital. From dim sum halls to Vietnamese noodle joints, it’s great for everything from group dinners to midnight bites.
Don’t miss the street art and old-school market stalls as you walk around.
Budget Restaurants in Vancouver
Havana Vancouver
Long-running Cuban eatery on Commercial Drive with vacation vibes. Go for plantain chips, Cubano sandwiches, or anything with their house hot sauce.
Affordable mains and a lively patio make it a favorite for groups.
Kintaro Ramen
Tiny, always-busy shop near Robson serving classic Japanese ramen under $20. Broth is rich, noodles are perfect, and portions are big.
Arrive early or be ready to wait — it’s worth it.
La Tortilleria
Granville Island gem making everything from scratch, especially their tortillas and Mexican street food.
Grab a taco salad if you want something cheap, filling, and different from your regular burrito bowl.
Afghan Horsemen
Family-run spot for Middle Eastern plates — think grilled meats, curries, and veggie options.
Great value for big portions, fun with friends, and close to the market scene.
Hail Mary’s
This quirky, irreverent diner in Mount Pleasant is a hit for comfort food favorites with a twist. Weekend brunch is solid (order the eggs Benedict!) and the late-night burger is a local legend.
Super casual, a little wild, always a fun meal.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Vancouver
Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant
Iconic for the view alone. This revolving spot spins above the city with cool rotating panoramas — try for sunset or after dark.
Menu covers all the hits: steaks, seafood, solid veggie options, and local wines.
El Gato Gab Gab
Modern Mexican in a bright, stylish space downtown. Known for top-notch cocktails, creative tacos, and fresh takes on Mexican street food.
Relaxed but trendy, perfect for small groups or date night.
The 515 Bar
Cocktail bar and bistro serving share plates, craft cocktails, and house-made snacks. It’s cozy and easygoing, not too fancy.
A good hang, especially before seeing a show or heading out in downtown.
Straight Brooklyn Pizza
Bring your pizza crew for New York-style slices and the occasional epic special (try the white pizza if it’s on).
Affordable, no-frills, and open late for last-minute cravings.
Luxury Restaurants in Vancouver
Elisa Steakhouse
Modern steakhouse in Yaletown known for incredible premium cuts grilled over fire. Space is stylish, food is next-level, and the cocktails are as impressive as the steaks.
Perfect for a big night out or fancy group dinner.
Le Crocodile
Long-time French fine dining legend, now helmed by chef Rob Feenie. Instantly welcoming with a classic, old-school vibe — foie gras, lobster, and beautiful wines.
Expect perfect service and special occasion energy.
Hawksworth Restaurant
Award-winning downtown spot for seasonal, local dishes with seriously creative twists. Think perfect seafood, inventive apps, and an elegant but relaxed setting.
Service is spot-on and dessert always surprises.
Best Coffee Shops in Vancouver
Revolver
Gastown institution with a “serious about coffee” vibe — rotating beans, tasting flights, and straight-up perfect pastries.
Ideal for a morning pit stop or slow hangout.
Prototype Coffee
Super creative micro-roastery. Pour-over believers, you need to be here.
Minimal, modern space with a focus on flavor and experimental roasts.
Timbertrain Coffee Roasters
Gastown spot in a sleek train-themed hideaway. House roasts, interesting manual brews, and cool train décor.
Great place to meet friends or escape the rain.
Pallet Coffee Roasters
Cozy neighborhood café chain, locally run and focused on small-batch roasts. The team’s super friendly and always up for a chat about beans.
Sit in or grab a cup to go — both are good ideas.
Nemesis Coffee
Chic, modern, and loved for wild flavor combos. Get a pastry or two with your espresso. There’s always something new on the menu.
Good spot to work or just people-watch downtown.
Markets in Vancouver
Granville Island Public Market
Vancouver’s best market for fresh seafood, produce, cheeses, pastries, and a little bit of everything. It’s busy but never overwhelming, and there’s always something new to sample.
Perfect for snacks on a rainy day or lunch with a view.
Main St. Station Farmers Market
Easy-to-access spot with local fruit, veggies, food trucks, and handmade treats. Smaller scale and friendly, it’s a nice mid-week break for food fans.
Riley Park Winter Farmers Market
Year-round weekend market across from Nat Bailey Stadium. Find winter root veggies, home baking, and small-batch preserves.
Good pick if you want something cozy when it’s rainy out.
Budget Accommodation in Vancouver
St. Clair Hotel/Hostel
Chill budget option downtown, super close to transit and food spots. Dorms and private rooms available, and kitchens if you want to cook.
Very walkable and easy on your wallet.
The Cambie Hostel Gastown
Right in the thick of Gastown, minutes from food, drinks, and the waterfront. Lively bar on-site and a social crowd.
Beds are basic, but location is stellar.
HI Vancouver Central
Good budget spot for solo travelers, smack in the middle of nightlife, Asian food, and pizza joints. Breakfast included, and guest kitchen for bringing back market finds.
Staff is friendly and helpful for first-timers.
Samesun Vancouver
Affordable mix of dorms and privates on Granville with lots of organized activities. Café on-site serves up cheap breakfast and solid coffee.
Expect late nights and new friends.
Central Station Hostel
Small, wallet-friendly hostel near transit and close to Main Street eats and coffee. Simple, clean, and a good crash pad if you’re out all day.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Vancouver
Georgian Court Hotel
Boutique hotel right downtown with comfy beds and great service. In-house restaurant, gym, and walking distance to food hotspots.
OPUS Hotel Vancouver
Cool Yaletown hotel with quirky rooms and a fun vibe. The Italian restaurant downstairs is excellent. Walkable to brunch and the seawall.
Loden Hotel
Super-friendly boutique stay in Coal Harbour. Bikes to borrow, a solid in-house restaurant, and easy strolls to Gastown and Chinatown eats.
Auberge Vancouver Hotel
Comfy, modern rooms close to the waterfront and at the center of everything.
Great fitness center and good for food travelers who want a little luxury but not the price tag.
EXchange Hotel
Downtown boutique focused on design, with an excellent breakfast and good access to all the best restaurants.
Luxury Accommodation in Vancouver
Fairmont Pacific Rim
Swanky, modern, and right on the waterfront with killer dining and a rooftop pool. Great for food lovers with onsite restaurants focusing on the Pacific Northwest.
Shangri-La Vancouver
Spacious suites, luxury spa, and walkable to Robson’s best spots. The on-site restaurant is a local favorite for high-end Asian and West Coast fare.
Wedgewood Hotel & Spa
Classic luxury just off Robson. Expect personalized service, intimate vibe, and a fantastic afternoon tea. The in-house restaurant delivers, too.
Fairmont Waterfront
Another classic by the harbor — epic rooftop pool, views, and access to tons of restaurants. Known for its garden-to-table concept and super fresh seafood.
Loden Hotel
This luxe pick in Coal Harbour shines for personal touches, peaceful rooms, and a fine-dining restaurant. Steps from food, trails, and the best of downtown vibes.
