Meagen SetterAre you tired of the same old Chinese or fast food take-out flyers cluttering your doormat? It’s time to shake things up and elevate your dinner game.
It’s time to break free from the routine and explore Vancouver’s culinary treasures. If you’re ready to elevate your dinner plans and indulge in a feast fit for a foodie, you’re in for a treat!
This curated list of Vancouver’s must-visit Michelin-starred restaurants will take you on a delicious journey filled with unforgettable flavors and exquisite dishes. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out—read on to discover where your next culinary adventure awaits!
1. Annalena
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Website: http://www.annalena.ca/
Address: 1809 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8
Contact details: +17783794052
Operating hours: 5–9 PM
Pricing: $$$
With its intimate ambiance and impeccable service, Annalena’s menu is a beautifully curated selection of modern European cuisine featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
One of the highlights of Annalena’s menu is their tasting menu, a carefully crafted journey through the chef’s culinary artistry. I particularly enjoyed the sea urchin risotto and the roasted pigeon, which was perfectly cooked and served with a rich, flavorful jus.
Pro tip:
Annalena’s impressive wine list features a carefully curated selection of old and new-world wines. Don’t be afraid to ask the sommeliers, who are happy to recommend pairings that complement the dishes perfectly.
2. Barbara
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Website: https://barbararestaurant.com/
Address: 305 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 0J3
Operating hours: 5:30–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Barbara has quickly become a local favorite, renowned for its innovative cuisine and intimate atmosphere. Nestled in a historic building, Barbara offers a chic and inviting setting that perfectly complements the culinary artistry on display.
Barbara’s menu is a masterpiece of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. One must-order dish is the uni tostada. This seemingly simple appetizer is a flavor explosion, featuring creamy uni (sea urchin), crispy tostada, and a touch of citrus.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation well in advance, as Barbara is often booked months in advance. Consider pairing your meal with one of the expertly curated wine or cocktail lists.
3. Burdock & Co
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Website: http://www.burdockandco.com/
Address: 2702 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E8
Contact details: +16048790077
Operating hours: 5–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Burdock & Co. is a culinary gem renowned for its innovative and seasonal cuisine. The menu changes regularly to reflect the availability of fresh, seasonal produce. But expect to find dishes that are beautifully plated and bursting with flavor.
Some highlights include their signature “Whole Roasted Cauliflower” with tahini yogurt and crispy chickpeas and the “Dungeness Crab Agnolotti” with a creamy lobster broth. The “Dry-Aged Beef” with chimichurri sauce is a must-try for meat lovers.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation well in advance, as this popular spot can fill up quickly. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations. They’re happy to help you choose the perfect dishes to suit your taste.
4. iDen & QuanJuDe Beijing Duck House
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Website: http://www.quanjudevancouver.com/
Address: 2808 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2V5
Contact details: +12364777777
Operating hours: 11 AM–10:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
If you’re ever in Vancouver craving authentic Beijing cuisine, iDen & QuanJuDe Beijing Duck House is a must-visit. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary Chinese dishes.
Don’t miss their signature Peking Duck, expertly roasted to perfection with crispy skin and juicy meat. One of my personal favorites is their dim sum menu. The har gow, siu mai, and char siu bao are all incredibly flavorful and beautifully presented.
Pro tip:
If you want a memorable dining experience, consider opting for their omakase menu. This curated selection of dishes showcases the best of the restaurant’s offerings and is a great way to explore its diverse menu.
5. Kissa Tanto
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Website: https://www.kissatanto.com/
Address: 263 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T8
Contact details: +17783798078
Operating hours: 5:30–11 PM
Pricing: $$$
Kissa Tanto is a Michelin-starred restaurant tucked away in a cozy corner of Chinatown that offers a unique blend of Japanese and Italian cuisine. The flavors are bold and harmonious, perfectly balancing sweet, salty, sour, and umami.
One of my personal favorites at Kissa Tanto is the Hokkaido Scallop Crudo. This dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, with the tender sweetness of the scallops complemented by the acidity of yuzu and the richness of uni.
Pro tip:
Another must-order dish is the Wagyu Beef Cheek Ragu. This hearty pasta dish is packed with flavor, with the tender beef cheek and rich ragu sauce perfectly complemented by the al dente pasta.
6. Masayoshi
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Website: http://www.masayoshi.ca/
Address: 4376 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5V 4G3
Operating hours: 6–10 PM
Pricing: $$$
Masayoshi offers an exquisite fusion of Japanese and French cuisine in a beautifully minimalist setting. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from delicate sushi and sashimi to hearty meat and seafood entrees.
One of my favorite dishes at Masayoshi is the Wagyu A5, a melt-in-your-mouth beef with rich, flavorful sauce. Another must-order is the tasting menu. This multi-course meal allows you to sample dishes and experience Masayoshi’s flavors.
Pro tip:
If you plan a visit to Masayoshi, I recommend making a reservation well in advance, as this popular restaurant can book quickly. Also, be sure to dress appropriately in smart casual attire.
7. Sushi Okeya Kyujiro
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Website: http://okeya.ca/
Address: 1038 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2T4
Contact details: +17789991038
Pricing: $$$
If you’re a sushi enthusiast seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience in Vancouver, look no further than Sushi Okeya Kyujiro. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an intimate, refined atmosphere perfect for a special occasion.
The menu at Sushi Okeya Kyujiro is a masterpiece of simplicity and freshness. One must-order item is undoubtedly the toro nigiri. Another standout dish is the uni don, a bowl of rice topped with a generous amount of fresh sea urchin.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation well in advance, as this popular restaurant can fill up quickly. You can also order the omakase menu to experience the chef’s creativity and skill.
8. Published on Main
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Website: http://www.publishedonmain.com/
Address: 3593 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3N4
Contact details: +16044234840
Operating hours: Sunday, 5–11 PM
Pricing: $$$
Published on Main, it has quickly become a local favorite for its innovative cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The menu is a masterpiece of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
A must-order at Published on Main is their iconic “Beef Shank Broth with Bone Marrow Dumplings.” This comforting and flavorful soup is a true standout on the menu. The tender, melt-in-your-mouth dumplings complement the rich, savory broth.
Pro tip:
Ask your server about their recommended wine pairings. Their extensive wine list features a variety of excellent options that will complement your meal perfectly.
9. St. Lawrence
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Website: http://www.stlawrencerestaurant.com/
Address: 269 Powell St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1G3
Contact details: +16046203800
Operating hours: 5–10:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
St. Lawrence is a culinary gem that transports you to the heart of Quebec with its rustic charm and exquisite French-inspired cuisine. The exposed brick walls, cozy lighting, and vintage decor create a captivating ambiance.
The menu showcases seasonal ingredients and traditional Québécois cooking techniques. One of the must-orders is the exquisite duck confit poutine. Crispy fries are smothered in rich duck gravy, creamy cheese curds, and green onions.
Pro tip:
Make a reservation in advance, as St. Lawrence is a popular destination and can get quite busy, especially on weekends. For a truly immersive culinary experience, consider the prix fixe menu.
10. Anh and Chi
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Website: http://www.anhandchi.com/
Address: 3388 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3M7
Contact details: +16048788883
Operating hours: 11 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$
Anh and Chi offer an authentic Vietnamese dining experience that will leave you craving more. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance, combined with the warm hospitality of its staff, creates a welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease.
My favorites are their banh mi, a Vietnamese sandwich filled with savory grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and chili. I highly recommend trying their grilled pork belly if you’re looking for a must-order dish.
Pro tip:
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the restaurant can get busy. It’s also worth noting that they offer a BYOB policy, so feel free to bring your favorite wine or beer to pair with your meal.
