Meagen SetterWe’ve all been there—trying to find the perfect spot to celebrate a birthday, reunion, or just a much-needed catch-up with friends, only to realize that most restaurants are too cramped for a big group.
The struggle is real when you want to enjoy good food and great company without elbowing your neighbor at the table. This challenge can turn a fun gathering into a frustrating experience!
That’s why I’ve compiled this list of Vancouver’s best restaurants catering to large gatherings. So keep scrolling, grab your friends, and dive into the ultimate guide to dining big in Vancouver!
1. The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant
Website: https://www.vancouverdine.com/sandbar
Address: 1535 Johnston Street, Creekhouse #102, 1535 Johnston St #35, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
Contact details: +16046699030
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant is within the bustling Granville Island Public Market and offers stunning views of False Creek and the city skyline. Its casual yet sophisticated atmosphere and commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
It’s known for its seafood menu, which features oysters, crab cakes, fish and chips, and seafood platters. Its commitment to sustainability is evident in its sourcing practices, which ensure that the seafood served is delicious and ethically sourced.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation well in advance, especially during peak dining times, to ensure a table with a prime view—the Dungeness Crab Cakes, a local favorite known for its tender, flavorful crab meat and crispy exterior.
2. Black + Blue
Website: https://blackandbluesteakhouse.ca/vancouver-home/
Address: 1032 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A3
Contact details: +16046370777
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–12 AM
Pricing: $$$
Black + Blue is a renowned steakhouse in Vancouver. It offers a sophisticated dining experience with a modern twist. The restaurant is known for its stylish ambiance, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases the finest cuts of meat.
One unique feature of Black + Blue is its commitment to quality. The restaurant sources beef from around the world to ensure the highest-quality cuts are served. The restaurant’s meticulous aging process allows the meat to develop rich flavor and tenderness.
Pro tip:
The Dry-Aged Prime Rib is a must-try. This succulent cut of beef is cooked to perfection and served with various accompaniments, including horseradish, au jus, and Yorkshire pudding.
3. Cardero’s Restaurant & Live Bait Marine Pub
Website: https://www.vancouverdine.com/carderos/
Address: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E7
Contact details: +16046697666
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Cardero’s Restaurant & Live Bait Marine Pub Vancouver offers stunning waterfront views and delicious cuisine. It’s a popular choice for large groups seeking a memorable meal, with its expansive patio providing harbor vistas and the city skyline.
Cardero’s menu showcases dishes ranging from classic comfort food to fresh seafood specialties. Popular options include seafood platters with local delicacies and creative dishes like signature fish tacos and grilled salmon with chimichurri sauce.
Pro tip:
The restaurant can get quite busy, so securing a table is highly recommended, particularly on the patio. The Seafood Platter is a must-try with its generous selection of fresh, locally sourced seafood served with dipping sauces.
4. Glowbal
Website: https://glowbalgroup.com/glowbal/
Address: 590 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A3
Contact details: +16046020835
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–1 AM
Pricing: $$$
Glowbal offers a unique dining experience in Vancouver. Its vibrant and stylish atmosphere and menu showcase a fusion of global flavors using fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
The restaurant’s sprawling interior, sleek bar, and open kitchen create a cosmopolitan ambiance perfect for large groups. The lively and energetic atmosphere adds to the excitement of the dining experience.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to try the restaurant’s signature Truffled Spaghetti and Meatballs. This crowd-pleaser features tender meatballs cooked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with a generous amount of truffle shavings.
5. Cora Breakfast & Lunch
Website: http://www.chezcora.com/en/breakfast-restaurants/british-columbia/Cora-Robson-Street
Address: 1368 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1C5
Contact details: +16046882672
Operating hours: 6 AM–3 PM
Pricing: $$
Cora Breakfast & Lunch is a beloved Vancouver institution known for its extensive menu of delicious breakfast and lunch dishes. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for large groups.
They offer dishes that range from classic favorites like pancakes and eggs to avocado toast and quinoa bowls. The spacious and comfortable dining room makes Cora’s a great choice for those on a budget looking for an enjoyable dining experience.
Pro tip:
One of the most popular dishes on Cora’s menu is the “Eggs Benedict Royale.” This classic breakfast dish features poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, served on a toasted English muffin.
6. Seasons in the Park
Website: http://vancouverdine.com/seasons-park
Address: W 33rd Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4
Contact details: +16048748008
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
Seasons in the Park at VanDusen Botanical Garden offers exquisite cuisine in a stunning natural setting. The restaurant is known for its seasonal menus featuring the freshest local ingredients.
The outdoor patio provides city views, and the elegant interior complements the natural surroundings. The menu showcases dishes, including seafood and meat entrees, and the restaurant offers a curated wine list to complement the cuisine.
Pro tip:
The restaurant can get quite busy, so it’s highly recommended to secure a table, particularly on weekends. The Pacific Halibut with roasted vegetables is popular for its delicate flavor and fresh ingredients.
7. Coast Restaurant
Website: https://www.glowbalgroup.com/coast/
Address: 1054 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1A3
Contact details: +16046855010
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
Coast Restaurant offers a culinary journey through the Pacific Northwest, showcasing the freshest local catch in a contemporary setting. The upscale eatery is committed to sustainability and sourcing the highest quality ingredients.
The menu celebrates the region’s seafood bounty with various dishes expertly prepared by talented chefs. A unique feature is the extensive raw bar, offering a selection of fresh oysters, clams, and other shellfish for a taste of the ocean.
Pro tip:
The Seafood Tower is a must-try for seafood lovers. It’s a decadent combination of fresh oysters, crab, shrimp, and other shellfish, served with various dipping sauces.
8. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar – Dunsmuir
Website: http://www.thekeg.com/en/locations/dunsmuir
Address: 688 Dunsmuir St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1N3
Contact details: +16046857502
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar – Dunsmuir is a renowned Vancouver institution known for its sophisticated yet welcoming dining experience. The upscale steakhouse delights patrons with impeccable service and exceptional steaks.
The restaurant’s interior blends modern elegance and classic sophistication. It features rich wood tones, plush leather seating, and soft lighting, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Pro tip:
The Caesar salad is a classic that never disappoints, while the lobster bisque is a rich and creamy indulgence. For a lighter option, try the grilled salmon or the seared scallops.
9. Sula Indian Restaurant
Website: https://sulaindianrestaurant.com/
Address: 1708 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2K7
Contact details: +17786535433
Operating hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$
Sula Indian Restaurant has quickly become a beloved destination for Indian food enthusiasts. The restaurant showcases India’s diverse regional cuisines, offering many traditional dishes alongside lesser-known regional delicacies.
The restaurant carefully sources fresh, high-quality ingredients and prepares each dish with care and attention to detail. The result is food bursting with flavor, beautifully presented, and consistently delicious, providing a comforting dining experience.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to try Sula’s signature butter chicken. This classic Indian dish is perfectly prepared, with tender chicken smothered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce.
10. Brix & Mortar Restaurant
Website: https://www.brixandmortar.ca/
Address: 1137 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6M5
Contact details: +16049159463
Operating hours: 4–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Brix & Mortar offers contemporary Canadian cuisine in a charming 1912 heritage brick building. The restaurant features a harmonious blend of modern elements and rustic charm.
Known for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu showcases the best of British Columbia’s culinary offerings. The extensive wine list and creative cocktail options complement the exceptional cuisine.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation in advance, especially during peak dining times. The West Coast Seafood Platter is a popular choice for seafood lovers, featuring a variety of fresh, local catches.
