Dining in Vancouver, BC
Wandering the streets of Vancouver I gained a local appreciation for the diversity in restaurants around me. Food trucks, sushi, brunch locations, and fine dining were lined up all on the same block. As a city on the Pacific Coast, I knew seafood was going to be a huge part of local dining in Vancouver. I was excited to try many new restaurants and eat my way through this new adventure!
Japadog: 530 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2B7
After researching restaurants in Vancouver, Japadog kept coming up on my search. When I landed I needed something fast and Japadog was right by my hotel so I thought I would give it a shot. Not being a hot dog lover, I have to tell you I was extremely impressed with this hole-in-the-wall fast hot dog joint. Only serving a handful of items including poutine, we devoured the Avocado Dog. For a quick and delicious fix I recommend you grab one while in Vancouver!
Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4
I cannot even begin to explain how delicious this meal was; as I am still drooling over the pictures. After reading reviews, my expectations were extremely high and I was not disappointed. Located in the heart of Yaletown, Blue Water Cafe + Raw Bar specializes in seafood. Inside was fairly large with a busy business crowd. Jameson was bar-tending and he guided me through the menu based on my preferences. First, I tried two local beers that were each nice and light for a seafood meal; Four Winds and the Bridge Brewing Wunderbar Kolsh. For my meal I really wanted to try a couple things; I went with the Toro and Sockeye Salmon Shashimi to start. It was the best I have ever had! The fish was so fresh and just melted in your mouth. After, I had a crab and shrimp seafood tower; the crab and shrimp salad was layered between sliced of jicama and served with a mango coulis, pumpkin seeds, and a parsley pesto. It was fresh and a delightful combination. Overall, this was the best restaurant I went to in Vancouver. With an upscale ambiance, amazing service, raw bar and incredible food. I’ll definitely be back!
Revolver Coffee 325 CAMBIE ST.
This is a small popular coffee shop that is a simply decorated cozy place. I wanted to grab a great brew and this was a the spot. It is pricey, but you can choose from coffee grown all over the world; you get what you pay for. Even though very crowded I found one seat by the window and struck up a conversation with travelers. Go for the coffee, but if you are planning on doing work I think it would be difficult.
Yaletown Brewing Company: 1111 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B2T9
Being a lover of beer, I am always excited to try new breweries and hear about their beers. Sad to say that Yaletown Brewing Co is nothing special or exciting. Withe a dark atmosphere, and a typical pub ambiance I ventured to the pub side of the large establishment. Beers were priced right and it seemed like a good happy hour bar. My biggest turn off was that the bartender had poor customer service and did not want to be there. It may have been an off night for this spot, but I was only there for one pint.
Malone's Social Lounge and Taphouse: 608 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B
We stopped into Malone's after our dinner to try some local beers. This is a proper pub that has a wide selection of west coast craft beers. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable about the beers they offer. Seems like it would be a great place to watch the game or grab happy hour drinks. There was an amazing craft beer sampling promotion going on by Odin Brewing Company and their representative Robyn. The beers were tasty and she was incredibly knowledgeable of her brands, which made our pub experience that much better! We sampled a flight: Odins Gift, Screaming Viking, Thor's Equinox, Galactic Space Dragon and Aussie Pale Ale!
Ancora Waterfront Dining: 1600 Howe St #2, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2L9
From the location on the waterfront, to the friendly and professional staff, to the interesting menu and ambiance, we thoroughly enjoyed our evening at Ancora. We booked this restaurant based on review sites; saying it was one of the best spots in town. Everything that touched our lips from the bread, to the oysters to our last sip of BC beer, was delicious and memorable. The wine choices were fabulous, with some local choices. We split everything, as we wanted a chance to taste the delicious options. To start, we ordered 12 fresh oysters; some of the best and freshest I have ever had. After we had the Nova Scotia lobster risotto, which was absolutely incredible! Lastly, as a recommendation from our waiter we decided on the AJI Panca Glazed Sablefish, as a recommendation from the waiter and he nailed it! With so many unique flavors and beautiful presentation.
This area was a delightful stop to get the local hometown feel of Vancouver. The Public Market is open 7 days a week from 9AM - 7PM allowing patrons to buy fresh goods from all over. We took a stroll through many of the shops and the waterfront. The Sandbar was a cute aquatic themed restaurant on the water with inviting staff and a good beer selection. It was a nice stop before our dinner across the water. The Aquabus is how travelers get to the other side for a few bucks, and in the quickest time. It was a beautiful area and so much to explore!
Jam Cafe: 556 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2L3
This place is popular for a reason. There is lots to choose from on the regular menu, plus a specials board. We were told that there is usually a wait, yet we only waiting 10 minutes, but leaving there were about 10 people outside. The place was quaint, with huge portions. Our food came out quickly and we finished every last bite. I would go back to Jam Cafe during my next visit!
Naan Breakfast Burrito – 14.5 Indian Naan bread, two sunny side eggs, avocado-bean salad, goat cheese and our house chili sauce.
Farmer’s Breakfast Skillet – 14 Sausage, bacon, seasonal peppers, and mushrooms all scrambled with two eggs on hash browns and topped with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions and tomatoes. Served with your choice of toast.