Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Vancouver for an Unforgettable Dining Experience in 2016

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Discover the top dining spots in Vancouver for 2016 with our expert selection of the best restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries.


Vancouver, a vibrant city on Canada's west coast, is famous for its diverse culinary scene. With so many restaurants to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine. To help you narrow down your options, we've compiled a list of the best restaurants in Vancouver for 2016. From fine dining to casual eateries, there's something to satisfy every palate.

First on our list is Miku Restaurant, known for its innovative Japanese cuisine and stunning waterfront location. The sushi here is a must-try, especially the Aburi-style sushi, which is lightly torched for a smoky flavor. Another standout dish is the salmon oshi sushi, which is pressed and topped with a savory sauce. With its sleek decor and impeccable service, Miku is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic date night.

If you're in the mood for some Italian fare, head to L'Abattoir in Gastown. This stylish restaurant is housed in a historic building and features an open kitchen and bar. The menu focuses on modern European cuisine with a Pacific Northwest twist. Highlights include the grilled octopus with chorizo and the tagliatelle with braised rabbit. Top off your meal with one of their creative cocktails, such as the Smoke and Mirrors made with mezcal and lavender.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, try Vij's Rangoli, the younger sibling of the acclaimed Vij's restaurant. Located on South Granville, this vegetarian-friendly eatery serves up Indian street food with a gourmet twist. The menu changes regularly, but favorites include the chicken pakoras and the lamb kebabs. Don't miss out on their signature chai tea, which is made with black tea and spices.

Another noteworthy restaurant is Farmer's Apprentice, which showcases seasonal ingredients from local farmers and foragers. The menu is constantly evolving, but expect dishes like the crispy chicken skin with fermented honey and the roasted squash with hazelnuts and sage. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make for a delightful dining experience.

If you're in the mood for some seafood, head to Blue Water Cafe in Yaletown. This upscale restaurant is known for its fresh sushi and sashimi, as well as its extensive wine list. Start off with the oysters on the half shell or the tuna and avocado tartare, then move on to the miso-glazed sablefish or the lobster risotto. Save room for dessert, as the chocolate truffle cake is a must-try.

Meat lovers will appreciate the offerings at Wildebeest, a rustic-chic restaurant in Gastown. The menu features nose-to-tail cuisine, with dishes like the bone marrow with parsley salad and the bison carpaccio with pickled mushrooms. The cocktail program is also impressive, with creative concoctions like the Bittered Sling made with gin and grapefruit bitters.

For a taste of the Mediterranean, check out Nuba, a Lebanese restaurant with several locations throughout the city. The menu features a variety of mezze plates, such as the hummus and tabbouleh, as well as heartier dishes like the lamb kafta and the falafel platter. Be sure to try their house-made hot sauce, which adds a spicy kick to any dish.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, try Fable Kitchen in Kitsilano. This farm-to-table restaurant is owned by two former contestants on the TV show Top Chef Canada. The menu changes frequently depending on what's in season, but expect dishes like the pork belly with apple and fennel or the roasted beet salad with goat cheese and hazelnuts. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make for a memorable meal.

For those on a budget, Toshi Sushi in East Vancouver is a great choice. This unassuming restaurant serves up some of the best sushi in the city at reasonable prices. The omakase menu is a steal, featuring a selection of chef's choice sushi rolls and sashimi. Be prepared to wait in line, as this place fills up quickly.

Last but not least is Hawksworth Restaurant, one of Vancouver's most acclaimed fine dining establishments. Located in the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, this elegant restaurant serves up contemporary Canadian cuisine with global influences. Highlights include the seared foie gras with spiced apple and the Wagyu beef with truffle jus. The wine list is also impressive, with selections from around the world.

In conclusion, Vancouver's culinary scene is thriving, with a wide variety of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, Italian, Indian, or something else entirely, you're sure to find a restaurant that will satisfy your cravings.


Introduction

Vancouver is a city well-known for its diverse culinary scene, offering food from all around the world. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to go for your next meal. In this article, we highlight the best restaurants in Vancouver for 2016, based on customer reviews, food quality, and overall dining experience.

Nightingale

Nightingale, located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, offers a unique menu that focuses on wood-fired dishes. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with an open kitchen concept. Some of the must-try dishes include the roasted cauliflower, wood-fired pizzas, and the beef short ribs. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Miku

Miku, located in the Coal Harbour area, is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Vancouver. The restaurant is known for its aburi sushi, which is sushi that is lightly seared with a blowtorch. Other popular dishes include the sablefish, ebi fritters, and the wagyu beef carpaccio. Miku offers a modern and trendy atmosphere, making it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.

Cinara

Cinara, located in the historic Gastown neighborhood, offers a farm-to-table menu with a Mediterranean twist. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Some of the standout dishes include the roasted bone marrow, lamb shoulder, and the ricotta gnocchi. Cinara also has an impressive wine list, making it a great spot for wine enthusiasts.

Maenam

Maenam is a modern Thai restaurant located in the Kitsilano neighborhood. The restaurant offers authentic Thai dishes with a contemporary twist. Some of the must-try dishes include the green curry chicken, pad Thai, and the crispy pork belly. Maenam also has an extensive cocktail list, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

Blue Water Cafe

Blue Water Cafe is a seafood restaurant located in the Yaletown neighborhood. The restaurant offers an impressive selection of fresh seafood, including oysters, sushi, and sashimi. Some of the standout dishes include the seafood tower, lobster risotto, and the miso glazed sablefish. Blue Water Cafe also has an extensive wine list, making it a great spot for a special occasion.

Chambar

Chambar, located in the Crosstown neighborhood, offers a Belgian-inspired menu with a North African twist. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include the moules frites, lamb shank tagine, and the waffles. Chambar also has an impressive beer list, making it a great spot for beer enthusiasts.

Botanist

Botanist, located in the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel, offers a farm-to-table menu with a focus on plant-based dishes. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. Some of the standout dishes include the vegan charcuterie board, beetroot tartare, and the mushroom risotto. Botanist also has an impressive cocktail list, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

Hy's Steakhouse

Hy's Steakhouse, located in the financial district, is one of the best steakhouses in Vancouver. The restaurant offers an impressive selection of high-quality steaks, including filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip. Hy's also has an extensive wine list, making it a great spot for a special occasion.

AnnaLena

AnnaLena, located in the Kitsilano neighborhood, offers a modern Canadian menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant uses unique and playful techniques to create flavorful dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include the smoked cheddar and onion risotto, beef tartare, and the roasted cauliflower. AnnaLena also has an impressive cocktail list, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.

Conclusion

Vancouver offers a diverse culinary scene with something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, steak, or vegan cuisine, there's a restaurant in Vancouver that will satisfy your cravings. The restaurants highlighted in this article are some of the best in the city for 2016 and offer unique and unforgettable dining experiences.


Vancouver is a city bursting with culinary delights, and its restaurant scene is constantly evolving. From classic Italian dishes to modern Chinese cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this article, we will explore the top 10 restaurants in Vancouver for 2016, each offering unique and delicious dining experiences.

The Fish Counter: Mouth-Watering Seafood

If you're a seafood lover, look no further than The Fish Counter. Located in the heart of Mount Pleasant, this restaurant offers an array of fresh, sustainable seafood options that are sure to leave your taste buds satisfied. Their menu features everything from fish and chips to sushi, but their standout dish is the mouth-watering seafood chowder. Made with fresh clams, mussels, and prawns, this creamy soup is the perfect comfort food on a chilly Vancouver day.

La Quercia: Classic Italian Dishes

For classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, La Quercia is a must-visit. This cozy restaurant in Kitsilano is known for its homemade pasta and hearty meat dishes, all made using traditional Italian techniques. One standout dish is the veal scaloppine, served with sage and prosciutto in a white wine sauce. Pair it with a glass of red wine from their extensive wine list for the ultimate dining experience.

Miku: Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Experience the best of authentic Japanese cuisine at Miku. This waterfront restaurant in Coal Harbour is known for its creative sushi rolls and sashimi platters, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. One standout dish is the aburi sushi, which is seared using a blowtorch to give it a unique smoky flavor. The restaurant also has an extensive sake list, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

The Acorn: Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Vegan and vegetarian options can be hard to come by, but The Acorn has got you covered. This trendy restaurant in Mount Pleasant offers a creative menu of plant-based dishes that are sure to impress even the most carnivorous diners. Their standout dish is the vegan poutine, made with crispy fries, mushroom gravy, and cashew cheese. Pair it with one of their unique cocktails for the ultimate dining experience.

Farmer's Apprentice: Farm-to-Table Fare

For farm-to-table fare made with locally sourced ingredients, head to Farmer's Apprentice. This cozy restaurant in South Granville offers a constantly changing menu based on what's in season, ensuring that every dish is fresh and flavorful. Their standout dish is the slow-roasted pork shoulder, served with roasted Brussels sprouts and parsnips. Pair it with a glass of natural wine from their extensive list for the ultimate dining experience.

The Diamond: Creative Cocktails and Small Plates

The Diamond is the perfect spot for a night out with friends. This trendy Gastown bar offers creative cocktails and small plates that are perfect for sharing. Their standout dish is the fried chicken sandwich, made with crispy chicken, slaw, and spicy mayo. Pair it with one of their unique cocktails, like the lavender gin sour, for the ultimate dining experience.

The Mackenzie Room: Hearty Canadian Comfort Food

For hearty Canadian comfort food, look no further than The Mackenzie Room. This cozy restaurant in Railtown offers a menu of classic dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. One standout dish is the bone marrow and beef tartare, served with pickled mushrooms and mustard. Pair it with a local beer or cider for the ultimate dining experience.

Bao Bei: Modern Chinese Cuisine

For modern Chinese cuisine with a twist, head to Bao Bei. This trendy Chinatown restaurant offers a menu of creative dishes inspired by traditional Chinese flavors. Their standout dish is the steamed pork belly bao, served with pickled cucumber and hoisin sauce. Pair it with one of their unique cocktails, like the lychee martini, for the ultimate dining experience.

Forage: Fresh and Local Ingredients

For fresh and local ingredients, head to Forage. This cozy West End restaurant offers a menu of sustainable dishes made with ingredients sourced from local farmers and foragers. One standout dish is the roasted bone marrow, served with pickled mushrooms and toast. Pair it with a glass of local wine or cider for the ultimate dining experience.

L'Abattoir: Cozy and Intimate Dining

For cozy and intimate dining, L'Abattoir is the perfect spot. This Gastown restaurant offers a menu of creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. One standout dish is the seared foie gras, served with apple and brioche. Pair it with a glass of champagne from their extensive list for the ultimate dining experience.In conclusion, Vancouver's restaurant scene is diverse and constantly evolving, with something for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for classic Italian dishes, modern Chinese cuisine, or vegan options, these top 10 restaurants in Vancouver for 2016 are sure to leave you satisfied. So go out and explore the culinary delights of this vibrant city!

The Best Restaurants in Vancouver 2016

Overview

Vancouver is known for its diverse food scene, offering a variety of cuisines to suit every palate. In 2016, the city saw the emergence of several new restaurants that garnered critical acclaim. Here, we take a look at some of the best restaurants in Vancouver in 2016 and their pros and cons.

Table Comparison

| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Ambiance | Service || --- | --- | --- | --- | --- || Mott 32 | Chinese | $$$$ | Upscale | Excellent || Kissa Tanto | Japanese-Italian | $$$ | Retro-Chic | Good || St. Lawrence | French-Canadian | $$$ | Cozy | Outstanding || Maenam | Thai | $$ | Casual | Friendly || Vij's | Indian | $$$ | Contemporary | Attentive |

Pros and Cons

Mott 32:

  • Pros: Offers high-end Chinese cuisine with a modern twist; exceptional service; luxurious ambiance.
  • Cons: Pricey; may not suit those on a budget; sometimes crowded.

Kissa Tanto:

  • Pros: Unique blend of Japanese and Italian cuisines; retro-chic ambiance; extensive wine list.
  • Cons: Can be difficult to get a table; some dishes may be hit or miss; limited vegetarian options.

St. Lawrence:

  • Pros: Authentic French-Canadian cuisine; cozy atmosphere; impeccable service.
  • Cons: Limited seating; can be noisy; may not appeal to those who prefer lighter fare.

Maenam:

  • Pros: Offers traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist; affordable prices; friendly service.
  • Cons: Can get busy during peak hours; limited vegetarian options; may not suit those seeking a fine-dining experience.

Vij's:

  • Pros: Innovative Indian cuisine; contemporary ambiance; attentive service.
  • Cons: Can be pricey; long wait times; may not appeal to those who prefer traditional Indian cuisine.

Conclusion

Vancouver is home to some of the best restaurants in Canada, and 2016 saw the emergence of several new culinary gems. Whether you're in the mood for upscale Chinese, retro-chic Japanese-Italian, or authentic French-Canadian cuisine, Vancouver has something to offer. While each restaurant on our list has its pros and cons, all of them are worth a visit for a unique dining experience.

The Best Restaurants in Vancouver 2016

Thank you for taking the time to read about the best restaurants in Vancouver for 2016. We hope that our recommendations have piqued your interest and inspired you to try some of the city's finest culinary offerings.

Vancouver is a city that prides itself on its diverse cultural influences, and this is reflected in the variety of dining options available here. From traditional Canadian fare to exotic Asian dishes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

If you're looking for a fine dining experience, we highly recommend checking out the likes of Hawksworth Restaurant or Blue Water Cafe. These establishments offer exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a luxurious atmosphere that is sure to impress.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, Vancouver has plenty of options to choose from. Restaurants like Tacofino or Vij's Rangoli offer delicious food in a relaxed, laid-back setting. And if you're looking for something truly unique, why not try The Fish Counter, a sustainable seafood eatery that focuses on using locally-sourced ingredients.

One of the great things about dining in Vancouver is the abundance of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that are used in many of the city's restaurants. Whether it's the freshly caught seafood or the locally-grown produce, you can taste the difference in the quality of the food.

If you're a fan of Asian cuisine, Vancouver is a must-visit destination. From sushi to dim sum, the city is home to some of the best Asian restaurants in North America. We highly recommend checking out the likes of Miku or Dinesty Dumpling House for some truly exceptional food.

Of course, no trip to Vancouver would be complete without trying some traditional Canadian dishes. Whether it's poutine, a savory gravy and cheese curd dish, or maple-glazed salmon, there are plenty of options to choose from. We recommend checking out The Acorn for some delicious vegetarian takes on classic Canadian dishes.

When it comes to dessert, Vancouver has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're in the mood for a decadent chocolate cake or a refreshing fruit sorbet, you won't be disappointed. We recommend checking out Beaucoup Bakery for some of the best pastries in the city.

Overall, Vancouver is a food lover's paradise, and we hope that our recommendations have given you a taste of what the city has to offer. Whether you're a local or a visitor, we encourage you to explore the diverse culinary scene here and discover some new favorites of your own.

Thank you for reading, and bon appétit!


People Also Ask About Best Restaurants in Vancouver 2016

What are the best fine dining restaurants in Vancouver?

There are several top-rated fine dining restaurants in Vancouver, including:

  • Blue Water Cafe: seafood-focused menu with a refined atmosphere.
  • Bauhaus: modern German cuisine with elegant decor.
  • Hawksworth Restaurant: elevated Canadian cuisine with a sophisticated ambiance.

What are the best casual dining restaurants in Vancouver?

Vancouver has a variety of great casual dining options, such as:

  • Meat & Bread: a sandwich shop with delicious house-made meats and breads.
  • Guu: a Japanese Izakaya-style eatery with a lively atmosphere.
  • Tacofino: a popular taco joint with a laid-back beach vibe.

Where can I find the best sushi in Vancouver?

Vancouver is known for its excellent sushi, and some top-rated spots include:

  • Tojo's Restaurant: a Vancouver sushi institution with inventive rolls.
  • Miku Restaurant: a waterfront eatery with creative sushi and stunning views.
  • Sushi Bar Maumi: a small, intimate sushi spot with traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients.

What are the best vegetarian/vegan restaurants in Vancouver?

Vancouver has many excellent options for vegetarian and vegan diners, such as:

  • The Acorn: a farm-to-table eatery with inventive vegetarian dishes.
  • Heirloom Vegetarian: a cozy spot with plant-based comfort food.
  • The Naam: a long-standing vegetarian restaurant with eclectic dishes and a laid-back vibe.