Robert WebbMy taste buds have been on an adventure through Burnaby’s best restaurants. From a sushi feast that left me wondering if I could ever roll my own to a pasta dish that had me googling “how to move to Italy,” every bite was a love letter to good food.
Sure, I may have spent way too much time debating dessert menus, but hey, research is important.
If you’re hungry for unforgettable flavors and curious about where to start, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Read on to find out where to grab your next life-changing meal in Burnaby!
Indulge in Gourmet Comfort at Trattoria by Italian Kitchen
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Website
Address: 4501 Kingsway #102
Contact details: +1 604-424-8779
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday: 11:30am 11pm
- Thursday: 2:30pm to 11pm
- Friday to Sunday: 10:30am to 11pm
If you’re all about handmade pasta and stone-grilled pizza, Trattoria by Italian Kitchen will hit the spot. Burnaby isn’t overflowing with al fresco dining options—especially heated ones—but this patio delivers cozy, Italian vibes that feel like a whimsical escape from the usual rainy gloom.
Bonus points for staying open until 11 pm! From the creative minds behind Italian Kitchen, this newly revamped spot serves up pasta towers and prosciutto sliced fresh to order.
Oh, and for the loyal fans out there, Tratt Tuesdays are still very much alive.
Grab some of their delicious pastas for just $16 at lunch or dinner—it’s a deal that never goes out of style!
Pro tip:
Parking is available beneath the Element Hotel, or alternatively, you can park on the street outside of the 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. restricted hours.
Savor Delicious Bites at L’Artista Italian Restaurant
Website
Address: 3891 Hastings Street
Contact details: +1 604-298-8110
Operating hours:
- Friday and Saturday: 5pm to 10pm
- Monday and Tuesday: 5pm to 9pm
L’Artista brings Italian fine dining to life with authentic, homemade dishes crafted from fresh, quality ingredients. The menu boasts a fantastic variety of options, with portions that strike a perfect balance between size and price.
The flavors are as fresh as they come, and the thoughtfully curated wine list pairs beautifully with the dishes. The warm and welcoming family behind the restaurant, makes you feel right at home by chatting with you during and after your meal.
With its nostalgic charm that’s hard to come by these days, this spot is a true find. If you love Italian cuisine (and honestly, who doesn’t?), this gem is sure to win you over!
Pro tip:
Please note that street parking on Hastings is subject to towing, especially during mid-week at 3:30 p.m. Be sure to check signage to avoid any issues.
Escape Into Flavor at Burnaby Palace Restaurant
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Website
Address: 3110 Boundary Road
Contact details: +1 604-437-1818
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11am to 9pm
Burnaby Palace is a hidden gem tucked away on Boundary Road, just a block north of Canada Way. This long-standing favorite consistently delivers solid Chinese cuisine that has stood the test of time.
Must-try dishes include the chicken chow mein, sweet & sour pork, beef gai lan, spicy squid, mapo tofu, lemon chicken, and spicy pork chop—all bursting with flavor and sure to please any Chinese food lover. Haven’t been yet? It’s time to fix that!
Pro tip:
Street parking is free, though you’ll need to stretch your legs for a short walk to the restaurant. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Discover Authentic Tastes at Jin Jiang Shanghai Restaurant
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Website
Address: 5411 Kingsway
Contact details: +1 604-620-6755
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11am to 9pm
This spot might just be Vancouver’s last bastion of traditional Shanghai cuisine. If you’re visiting for lunch, don’t skip the Chinese doughnut—it’s hands-down the best in the city.
For dinner, take our advice and start with the BBQ duck served in soup, then dive into the salted pork fried rice. It’s a combo that guarantees a satisfying and flavorful evening.
And honestly? we’ve been here countless times, and nothing on the menu
disappoints. If something catches your eye, go for it—you really can’t go wrong!
Pro tip:
Quite popular in the area so make a reservation during peak hours.
Delight Your Taste Buds at Saffron Indian Cuisine
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Website
Address: 4300 Kingsway #5
Contact details: +1 604-436-5000
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30am to 10pm
This rustic Indian-style restaurant is a feast for the senses, with walls adorned with vintage photographs and accessories that beautifully capture an old-world Indian charm.
The ambiance is spot-on, elevated by a special wall filled with antique artifacts that add a touch of nostalgia and elegance.
The buffet is absolutely delicious. All the fried delights—samosas and pakoras—are crisp, flavorful, and impressively non-greasy.
And the garlic naan? Perfection! Packed with garlic on soft, freshly baked bread, it’s so good you’ll struggle to enjoy garlic naan anywhere else.
Don’t forget the beverages: a warm, comforting chai when it’s snowing, or a refreshing mango lassi on those sunny days.
Pro tip:
If you can’t handle too much heat, just let the staff know—they’ll happily recommend dishes that suit your taste, just like they did for us!
Relish Bold Dishes at Cayenne Bistro & Grill
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Website
Address: 7677 6th Street
Contact details: +1 604-553-7866
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 12pm to 9pm
For an unforgettable dining experience in Burnaby, Cayenne Bistro and Grill is a must-visit.
The food is fantastic, with some spicy options, though you can always ask for milder versions to suit your palate. The warm atmosphere and friendly family hosts make it feel like a home away from home.
For lunch, we recommend the Hyderabadi chicken biryani, beef curry, raita, and mango lassi. While the biryani isn’t quite as bold as an authentic Indian version, it’s still enjoyable, and the beef curry is perfectly cooked with just the right amount of spice.
Pro tip:
The daily specials are written on a small board near the front door, so if you’re not seated close by, you might have to take a quick peek to check them out.
Experience Fusion Dining at Sushi Garden
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Website
Address: 6611 Kingsway
Contact details: +1 604-360-8611
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30am to 9pm
- Friday and Saturday: 11:30am to 9:30pm
Sushi Garden is a go-to spot for sushi lovers, offering great portions at reasonable prices. It’s the perfect place to sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
The rolls are a crowd favorite—don’t miss the house roll, California roll, futomaki, or Dynamite roll. For something extra, their kaki fry is a standout, and the fried udon is consistently good. The sashimi? Generously portioned and deliciously fatty.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for a mix, the Assorted Sushi plate is a great option for variety and value. Want to skip the rice? The Deluxe Sashimi plate is the way to go!
Unwind with a Meal at Stem Japanese Eatery
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Website
Address: 5205 Rumble Street
Contact details: +1 604-434-0250
Operating hours:
- Thursday: 5pm to 9pm
- Friday and Saturday: 5pm to 10pm
- Sunday: 5pm to 9pm
Stem Japanese Eatery is the ultimate destination for omakase—a true culinary adventure. Every dish is impeccably fresh, of the highest quality, and beautifully presented, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
The omakase menu offers a delightful mix of sushi and cooked dishes, each one perfectly crafted and bursting with flavor. Keep in mind, omakase is available only on specific days and requires a deposit, so planning ahead is key.
The attention to detail in every dish is evident, with each element carefully arranged to perfection by the chef. If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine and want to elevate your dining experience, this is the place to go.
Pro tip:
We highly recommend booking your omakase or any reservation well in advance!
Dig Into Comforting Classics at Cazba Persian Grill
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Website
Address: 4567 Lougheed Hwy
Contact details: +1 604-564-9499
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11am to 7pm
- Thursday to Saturday: 11am to 9pm
- Sunday: 11am to 7pm
Daily lunches at Cazba Brentwood are a true treat! Their kebabs are grilled to perfection—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside.
Located in the Brentwood Mall food court, this spot is known for its delicious Persian cuisine, especially their koobideh kebabs served with fragrant basmati rice.
While the long lines reflect its popularity, the wait is worth it as every kebab is grilled fresh to order. Our top pick? The Chicken and Steak dish.
The meats are marinated and spiced beautifully, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. If you’re after a standout meal with great service, this place is a must-try.
Pro tip:
During busy hours, wait times can exceed 20 minutes. Save yourself the hassle by ordering takeout 30 minutes ahead of time instead of queuing in person.
Feast on Fresh Creations at Atlas Steak + Fish
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Website
Address: 4331 Dominion Street
Contact details: +1 604-453-0776
Operating hours:
- Monday: 3pm to 11pm
- Tuesday: 3pm to 1am
- Friday and Saturday: 3pm to 12am
- Sunday: 3pm to 11pm
Situated right next to the Grand Villa Casino, this spot greets you with a massive screen at the entrance. Inside, you’ll find a bar area with TVs, a main dining room, and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs work their magic.
We highly recommend stopping by for Happy Hour from 3–5:30 PM. The menu is both affordable and packed with value—think $6 red or white wine, $5 prime rib mini burgers, $5 seafood rolls, $5 meatballs, and oysters for just $1.80 each!
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling lucky, the casino is just across the hallway, making it easy to keep the good times rolling.
Explore Local Flavors at Wild Flour Pizza Co.
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Website
Address: 2900 Bainbridge Ave #104
Contact details: +1 604-238-4346
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday: 12pm to 9pm
- Thursday to Sunday: 12pm to 9pm
Wild Flour Pizza Co. easily ranks among our top five pizzerias of all time. The interior is clean and open, with limited seating for about 6–8 people, making it an ideal spot for takeout rather than dining in.
The pizzas, priced between $18 and $23, are worth every penny—they’re generously topped and bursting with flavor. The sourdough crust is a standout: chewy, perfectly baked, and a healthier choice.
The Vegan Funghi pizza is an absolute must-try—it’s simply incredible, with flavors that are out of this world! Highly recommend giving this place a visit—you won’t regret it!
Pro tip:
Don’t skip the homemade dips, especially the truffle aioli.
Sip and Savor at la Forêt
Website
Address: 6848 Jubilee Avenue
Contact details: +1 604-428-8155
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 10pm
This café brings an intriguing concept to life with its mini indoor forest vibe. The menu is impressively diverse, featuring brunch options, baked goods, and drinks, all perfectly suited for a casual hangout.
Known for its Korean-inspired desserts that are as photogenic as they are delicious, this spot tends to be bustling on weekends.
You’ll find a wide selection of pastries and cakes here, with croissants priced at $8, cake slices at $8.25, and whole cakes at $39.99. The treats are satisfying, though the real draw might just be the atmosphere.
The interior shines—literally—with fairy lights that create a warm and inviting ambiance, even on the rainiest of days. With plenty of seating, it’s also a great spot for studying or catching up with friends.
Pro tip:
As for parking, there are spots available at the front and back of the café, though street parking can be a bit tricky to secure.
Enjoy Cozy Vibes at Chez Christophe
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Website
Address: 4717 Hastings Street
Contact details: +1 604-428-4200
Operating hours:
- Tuesday: 9am to 3pm
- Friday and Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Chez Christophe is a chic and stylish café offering an impressive array of desserts, baked goods, and homemade treats like chocolates and jams. Conveniently located just a short walk from Confederation Park, it’s a perfect spot to indulge after a leisurely stroll.
The desserts here are nothing short of spectacular. Each creation is a testament to the time and effort that goes into crafting them, evident in their stunning presentation and exquisite flavors.
Our top recommendation is the double-baked almond croissant. Perfectly executed with a crisp, flaky exterior coated in toasted almonds and powdered sugar, and a rich, buttery almond paste filling—it’s pure perfection.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their specialty chocolate-infused coffees, which are absolutely divine. You can also order cakes in various sizes, with seasonal flavors.
Celebrate Fresh Ingredients at Glenburn Soda Fountain
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Website
Address: 4090 Hastings Street
Contact details: +1 604-565-0155
Operating hours:
- Friday: 6pm to 10pm
- Saturday: 3pm to 10pm
- Sunday: 3pm to 9pm
Glenburn is the quintessential neighborhood spot for indulging in ice cream and sundaes. With cozy counter seating and a few tables, it’s a charming place to savor a sweet treat.
They also offer plenty of seasonal flavors, and their takeout pints and ice cream sandwiches are a must-try for those on the go.
The menu features a wide variety of delights, including ice creams, floats, milkshakes, sundaes, and other desserts. Their ice cream cakes are particularly noteworthy—delicious and reasonably priced.
Pro tip:
You can conveniently place your order online for pick-up, and rest assured—the taste and quality remain just as exceptional as dining in.
