Tianna ClarkeAfter months of hard work, I finally finished that big project. To celebrate, I knew exactly what I needed: a delicious meal with stunning views. It was the perfect way to escape the monotony of my desk and laptop screen.
Want to know where I went? Keep reading to discover the best restaurants in Vancouver that will satisfy your hunger and amaze your eyes.
1. Cardero’s Restaurant & Marine Pub
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Website: https://www.vancouverdine.com/carderos/
Address: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E7, Canada
Contact details: +16046697666
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Cardero’s Restaurant & Marine Pub is tucked away in Coal Harbour, and when you’re there, it’s like the hustle and bustle of urban life meets the serene backdrop of the North Shore mountains.
The decor has a lovely nautical theme, with rustic wood accents and marine-inspired touches that make it cozy and inviting. Whether you’re having a relaxed lunch with friends or a romantic dinner with a special someone, the atmosphere just feels right.
One of the best parts? The Live Bait Marine Pub! They have live music from local artists almost every night. And speaking of drinks, if you want to unwind after work, their happy hour from 3 PM to 5 PM on weekdays is worth taking advantage of.
Pro tip:
If you happen to be there on a Sunday, don’t even think about missing their classic prime rib dinner.
2. The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant
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Website: https://www.vancouverdine.com/sandbar
Address: 1535 Johnston Street, Creekhouse #102, 1535 Johnston St #35, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Contact details: +16046699030
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant offers views of False Creek and a menu completely focused on seafood. It’s like diving into a little treasure chest of West Coast cuisine right in the heart of Vancouver.
It’s got this perfect mix of sophistication and casual feel, with wooden elements and those huge windows that practically frame the stunning waterfront outside. There’s even a heated outdoor patio—which, trust me, is a game changer for year-round dining.
You absolutely cannot miss their Sandbar Tower. It’s a stunning spread of fresh seafood—prawns, oysters, crab—you name it. Perfect for sharing or just indulging by yourself if you’re feeling cheeky!
Pro tip:
Make reservations for their Omakase experience at the sushi bar. This requires 48 hours’ notice but allows you to enjoy expertly crafted sushi made by their Master Sushi Chef, Tsutomu Hoshi.
3. Miku
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Website: http://www.mikurestaurant.com/
Address: 200 Granville St #70, Vancouver, BC V6C 1S4, Canada
Contact details: +16045683900
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Miku sits right on the waterfront, next to Canada Place, and the views from there are stunning. They’re known for their aburi sushi, which they lightly sear using binchotan and Japanese charcoal, bringing out flavors and textures.
The menu is a beautiful blend of Japanese and West Coast seafood, with tons of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Plus, tit’sOcean Wise certified, which is a nice touch for environmentally conscious eaters
Since opening, Miku has had a MICHELIN Plate since 2022. But beyond the food, walking into Miku feels like stepping into an artistic sanctuary. The decor is vibrant yet elegant, filled with beautiful aquatic-themed murals painted by a Japanese artist from Kyoto.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for something a bit more exclusive, look for their sake-pairing dinners. They’re a great way to dive deeper into Northern Japan’s flavors.
4. Seasons in the Park
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Website: http://vancouverdine.com/seasons-park
Address: W 33rd Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4, Canada
Contact details: +16048748008
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–8:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
Seasons in the Park is a hidden gem perched in Queen Elizabeth Park. It offers an incredible panoramic view of the city and the North Shore mountains that will take your breath away.
The place has been around since 1989 and has become a favorite for locals and tourists. The menu is a delightful mix of regional West Coast cuisine, and trust me, you won’t want to miss the wood-fired grill options.
The decor beautifully balances elegance with nature—huge windows bring the outside in and create a peaceful vibe. During the warmer months, the patio is just dreamy. It feels like you’ve stumbled into a private garden retreat.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their Sunday Night Prime Rib special if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s slow-roasted to perfection, and you get Yorkshire pudding with it.
5. Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant
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Website: https://topofvancouver.com/
Address: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6, Canada
Contact details: +16046692220
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
The Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant sits 167 meters above the city, offering a unique fine dining experience. It’s been a Vancouver staple since 1977, so you know it has to be good.
The whole place revolves slowly, completing a full rotation every hour. Imagine sipping a glass of wine, nibbling on exquisite dishes, and watching the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore Mountains, and the waters of Burrard Inlet glide by your window.
The menu is a delicious mix of international flavors, with a strong nod to Pacific Northwest ingredients. You’ll find everything from succulent seafood to expertly grilled steaks and even some innovative vegetarian options.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, you have to try the King Crabster. It’s a showstopper with steamed whole Atlantic lobster and King crab legs that will blow your mind!
6. The Lookout Coffee House
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Website: http://www.sewellsmarina.com/about/the-lookout-coffee-shop/
Address: 6409 Bay St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 3H5, Canada
Contact details: +16049219205
Pricing: $
The Lookout Coffee House is this charming little café that steals your heart with its amazing views of Horseshoe Bay. Nestled right atop the Vancouver Lookout, it’s one of my go-to spots for breakfast or a nice snack in the middle of the day.
They serve freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries. If you’re looking for something more filling, their sandwiches and salads are light yet satisfying. They also have a lovely outdoor terrace where you can sip your coffee al fresco.
The vibe is super inviting, with a nice blend of modern decor and cozy rustic touches that make you want to stay for hours. The large windows let in so much natural light and believe me, the view is breathtaking.
Pro tip:
Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to snag a prime seat on the terrace—trust me, watching the sunset over Vancouver from this vantage point is an experience you won’t forget!
7. Five Sails Restaurant
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Website: https://glowbalgroup.com/five-sails/
Address: 999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada
Contact details: +16048442855
Operating hours: 11:30 AM–12 AM
Pricing: $$$
Five Sails Restaurant is a hidden waterfront gem tucked inside the Pan Pacific Hotel. Its vibe is perfect for intimate dinners or special celebrations, and its touch of luxury makes you feel pampered.
They have plush velvet booths and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame stunning views of Vancouver’s skyline and the North Shore mountains. You can sit there watching seaplanes take off, setting the mood for a romantic evening.
This is an AAA Four Diamond award-winning restaurant serving West Coast cuisine. It serves everything from rich Quebec Foie Gras to Spot Prawn Risotto, all with Chef Ernst Dorfler’s clever spin influenced by his Austrian roots.
Pro tip:
The Five Sails Grand Marnier Soufflé is a must-try. It strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, leaving you wanting more.
8. Uli’s Restaurant
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Website: https://ulisrestaurant.com/
Address: 15023 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1C3, Canada
Contact details: +16045389373
Operating hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Uli’s Restaurant is one of those hidden gems that makes the experience special. Imagine sitting there and watching the sun dip over the Strait of Georgia—it’s breathtaking.
This place has been around for over 30 years, and it was started by a guy named Ulrich “Uli” Blume. The menu’s got this West Coast Bistro flair, mixing local ingredients with flavors that Uli picked up on his travels.
It blends rustic charm with a modern twist, making it cozy yet a little upscale. If you can sit outside, you’re in for a treat—the bay view is unlike any other. They’ve got nice touches like wheelchair accessibility and takeout options.
Pro tip:
Arrive just before sunset. This way, you can enjoy your meal while watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors over Semiahmoo Bay—an experience that truly elevates your dining outing!
9. Bacchus Restaurant
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Website: https://wedgewoodhotel.com/dining/bacchus-restaurant/
Address: 845 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1V1, Canada
Contact details: +16046085319
Operating hours: 7 AM–12 AM
Pricing: $$$
Bacchus Restaurant & Lounge has a classic European vibe that makes you feel special when you step in. Trust me, the views of the city skyline through those large bay windows are gorgeous.
Bacchus has been around since 1984, and it’s Michelin-recommended. The menu is fantastic, featuring European-inspired dishes. You’ve got options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even brunch.
The Venetian décor and original artwork make you feel like you’ve entered a different world. I could just sit there for hours, especially with the lovely live piano music playing softly in the background—it adds such a charming touch.
Pro tip:
Arrive during their cocktail hour, which runs from Sunday to Thursday from 2:30 to 5:30 PM. This is a great time to enjoy discounted drinks and sample smaller plates or appetizers that might not be available during regular dining hours.
10. Tap & Barrel
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Website: https://tapandbarrel.com/
Address: 3211 152 St #207, Surrey, BC V3S 3M1, Canada
Contact details: +16045663229
Operating hours: 11 AM–12 AM
Pricing: $$
Tap & Barrel is the perfect spot if you’re craving great craft beer and that delicious West Coast vibe. This vibrant chain is known for its Canadian comfort food, ideal for hanging out with friends or family.
Each spot offers a unique menu featuring shared plates, mouthwatering pizzas, and juicy burgers. They are known for their incredible selection of BC craft beers and wines—some places have over 30 taps!
There’s also this spacious heated patio that’s perfect for outdoor dining any time of the year, and if you’re into sports, they’ve got large TVs to catch all the action. It’s just such a welcoming place, and I can’t help but feel at home there.
Pro tip:
If you plan to dine during peak hours, arrive early or make a reservation—especially if you want to snag a table on the patio for those unbeatable views!
