Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinI’ve always believed that the best way to get to know a city is through its food, and Vancouver is no exception.
As someone who’s spent more time than I’d like to admit chasing down the perfect lunch in Vancouver, I’ve gathered a list of spots that have become my personal favorites.
These places have something special that keeps me coming back, and I’m excited to share them with you here!
Meat & Bread
Address: 370 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2N3, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 620-2020
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Cuisine type: Sandwiches
Price range: $$
For a quick lunch that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Meat & Bread is one of the first places that comes to my mind. Their porchetta sandwich is legendary, with its crispy crackling, juicy pork, and loads of refreshing herbs.
I’ve also tried their meatball and buffalo chicken sandwiches, and I can say they’re a pretty nice way to change up my lunch staples here.
The vibe at Meat & Bread is laid-back. The communal tables make it easy to just grab and go, though you can definitely stay a bit longer if you feel like chatting with locals.
If you’re not near this store location, you can also find other Meat & Bread branches at Pender, Broadway, Robson streets, and more.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their daily specials, which often feature unique and seasonal ingredients that add an extra kick to your quick bite!
Breka Bakery and Cafe
Address: 655 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Z 3X7, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 874-2323
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 24 hours
Cuisine type: Bakery/Cafe
Price range: $
If you’re looking for a sweet treat or a light, quick lunch, Breka Bakery and Cafe is a solid choice that stands out in Vancouver for its 24/7 service—something rare for any city.
Whether you’re satisfying a late-night craving or seeking an early morning pick-me-up, Breka offers a welcoming, energetic atmosphere that never feels sleepy.
It’s cozy, open 24/7, and feels just like a friendly neighborhood hangout, perfect for grabbing a coffee and a snack whenever you like.
Top picks include the pistachio cream-filled donut and the indulgent Kahlua chocolate mousse cake. For something more substantial, try their turkey avocado sandwich, which pairs perfectly with their Hedgehog Mocha.
Pro tip:
Their selection of fresh-baked goods changes daily, so if you have a specific craving, it’s worth calling ahead to see what’s available.
Japadog
Address: 530 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2B7, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 682-1010
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cuisine type: Japanese Hotdogs
Price range: $
Japadog is a good spot to visit if you love unique street food. Their Terimayo Dog, topped with teriyaki sauce, mayo, and seaweed, is incredible, but you can’t stop there.
Giving the Terimayo Dog a good fight are the Kurobuta Okonomi hot dog, with Kurobuta pork sausage, bonito flakes, and Japanese mayo; the Kurobuta Love Meat with beef sauce and torched cheese; and the Kurobuta Terimayo with teriyaki and fried onions.
Regardless of your pick, what’s exciting it the portions are generous, with well-balanced toppings and substantial buns. Their food is still easy to handle, and with prices under CA 15, it’s a very nice option for a flavorful lunch.
Pro tip:
Try pairing your food with one of their refreshing beverages or specialty fries. Their shaken fries with spicy shichimi and garlic seasoning are a fun and filling addition to the experience!
Go Fish Restaurant
Media by @ynnafrommanila
Address: 1505 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1E8, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 730-5040
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Cuisine type: Seafood
Price range: $$
If you’re craving seafood, Go Fish is the spot. This little shack on Fisherman’s Wharf, right under the bridge, offers great waterfront views and a laid-back vibe that feels like a seaside escape in the city.
Their fish tacos are legendary—fresh fish, tangy slaw, and chipotle mayo—but don’t miss out on their Salmon Tacones or the crispy house-made fries. Everything is made from scratch, and you can taste the quality in every bite.
Go Fish has been up and running, and drawing both tourists and locals, for 15 years now, so it can get busy. Orders aren’t always served in order, but the wait is worth it.
Seating is all outdoors with little shade, so plan accordingly. If it’s a hot day, grab your meal to go and find a shady spot nearby to enjoy it with a view of Granville Island.
Pro tip:
Despite the crowd’s love for Go Fish, or maybe because of it, parking can be a bit of a challenge here. Arrive early or consider using public transportation to avoid the hassle.
Templeton Restaurant
Media by @azanjacobs
Address: 1087 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L2, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 681-1164
Hours:
- Sunday and Thursday, 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Monday to Wednesday, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday, 8:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Cuisine type: Diner, Comfort Food
Price range: $$
For a touch of nostalgia, you’ve got to check out Templeton Restaurant, a retro diner in the heart of downtown.
Their menu is packed with comfort food classics, like the Farmer’s Breakfast Hash — scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies on a bed of crispy potatoes.
Another hit is the Mangled Eggs, with garlic, Brie, and your choice of meat, all tucked inside a toasted croissant. If you’re into eggs Benedict, their Pulled Pork Benny with homemade BBQ sauce is another item on their menu worth checking out.
With comic strips embedded in the tables and jukeboxes at every booth, the retro decor makes it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Pair that with generous portions, friendly service, and delicious coffee, and it’s easy to see why Templeton is a local favorite.
Pro tip:
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, their homemade pies and milkshakes are also worth giving a try!
Tap and Barrel – Olympic Village
Address: 75 Athletes Way False Creek, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Y 0B1 Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 685-2223
Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Cuisine type: Gastropub, Canadian
Price range: $$
Tap and Barrel in Olympic Village is the place to be if you’re after a laid-back vibe with amazing waterfront views. Their spacious patio is perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying a great selection of local beers and comfort food.
The fried chicken snack burger and crispy tots are solid choices, but the fried pickles steal the show—perfectly crispy with a delicious dipping sauce.
The service is friendly, and making a reservation is a good idea since it can get busy, especially on weekends. After your meal, a walk through the nearby park is the perfect way to unwind.
Pro tip:
Drop by during Happy Hour, daily from 3 to 6 PM, for deals on drinks and appetizers. It’s a perfect time to enjoy the vibe.
Dovetail Restaurant
Address: 1079 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5P9, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 336-1088
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday, 11:30 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday, 11:30 AM to 1:00 AM
Cuisine type: Family Style, Californian
Price range: $$
For a cozy, neighborhood vibe, head over to Dovetail. Their airy, welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to settle in and enjoy a laid-back meal with friends.
The menu offers fresh, creative options like their popular avocado toast with poached eggs and radishes, along with unique dishes like Mochiko Chicken with gochu-mayo or their twist on Carbonara.
Dovetail’s drink selection features both BC and Californian wines, plus craft cocktails that are familiar yet without a doubt elevated. You can grab a seat inside or on the patio, and you can still expect to have a promising time.
Pro tip:
Visit during brunch hours on weekends, when they offer a special menu with creative dishes.
The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant
Address: 1535 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 669-9030
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Cuisine type: Seafood
Price range: $$
When seafood cravings hit, The Sandbar on Granville Island is the spot to satisfy them.
Tucked right under the bridge, this spot offers a warm, rustic ambiance paired with lovely views of False Creek. The rustic decor and views of False Creek make it a chill place to kick back.
Their menu is packed with fresh options, from tasty sushi rolls to a creamy New England clam chowder that’ll warm you right up. They also have pan-fried scallops, tender wok-tossed squid, and perfectly grilled wild sockeye salmon!
Parking on Granville Island can be a challenge, but if you’re patient, you might just find a free spot nearby.
Pro tip: Swing by during the weekend brunch for a treat – crab cakes, fresh oysters, and laid-back vibes make it the perfect time to slow down and savor a meal.
Cora Breakfast and Lunch
Address: 1176 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1B2, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 688-2672
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday, 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Sunday, 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Cuisine type: Brunch
Price range: $$
For a cheerful start to your day, Cora Breakfast and Lunch is a fantastic choice. They’re known for their hearty breakfasts loaded with fresh fruit and generous portions.
Their crepes, filled with everything from strawberries to Nutella, and their omelets, packed with delicious fillings, are always a hit.
The bright, friendly atmosphere here is perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal. Plus, they offer a variety of smoothies and juices that pair perfectly with your breakfast!
Pro tip: They also offer a special kids’ menu with fun, kid-friendly options sure to please the little ones.
Botanist Restaurant
Address: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 695-5300
Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Cuisine type: Canadian, Contemporary
Price range: $$$
Botanist in the Fairmont Pacific Rim is a top pick if you’re looking to indulge in a high-end dining experience.
The restaurant’s lush decor creates an elegant setting, perfect for a special night out. Led by Chef Hector Laguna, the kitchen crafts a fresh, seasonal menu that showcases the best of local ingredients.
Highlights include their seafood tower, which is a true centerpiece, and desserts that are worth saving room for, like the lemon syrup-soaked cake with Meyer lemon curd.
The Botanist Bar also deserves attention, with their artfully crafted cocktails that change with the seasons. Whether you’re there for a drink or a full meal, the ambiance and service ensure a polished experience from start to finish.
Pro tip: For an extra special treat, consider booking their Chef’s Table experience, where you can enjoy a tasting menu prepared just for you.
Black + Blue Restaurant
Address: 1032 Alberni St, Vancouver, BC V6E 4R5, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 637-0777
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Cuisine type: Steakhouse
Price range: $$$
Black + Blue is known for their top-quality steaks, including the impressive tomahawk, which is perfect for those who appreciate a well-prepared steak. The juicy burgers also stand out and pair well with wine from their extensive list.
The sleek, modern decor creates a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for a special occasion or simply when you’re in the mood for a hearty meal.
Pro tip: Don’t miss their daily Happy Hour specials, where you can enjoy discounted appetizers like truffle fries, along with a variety of signature cocktails to kick off your meal.
Minami Restaurant
Address: 1118 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2T9, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 685-8080
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Cuisine type: Japanese, Sushi
Price range: $$$
For a modern twist on Japanese cuisine, Minami Restaurant in Vancouver is a must-visit. The sleek, contemporary vibe makes it perfect for a special night out or a cozy date.
Known for bringing Aburi sushi to Canada, Minami takes their flame-seared creations to the next level with smoky, melt-in-your-mouth flavors.
The sablefish entrée is another standout, paired with delicate pickles and crunchy, flavorful rice that make every bite a delight.
Their cocktails are as creative as their sushi, and their whiskey selection is definitely worth exploring. Don’t forget to save room for dessert—it’s surely as impressive as the rest of the menu.
Pro tip:
At Minami, they offer a range of premium sake and cocktails that pair beautifully with their dishes. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations to complement your meal.
Bacchus Restaurant and Lounge
Address: 845 Hornby St., Vancouver, V6Z 1V1, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 685-8080
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Cuisine type: Fine Dining, European
Price range: $$$
Bacchus Restaurant and Lounge at the Wedgewood Hotel blends class with comfort effortlessly. With its cozy, upscale vibe and standout service, it’s a spot that suits both romantic dinners and chic get-togethers with friends.
You’ll find dishes like tender lamb chops and creamy risotto on the menu, while the lounge is just right for sipping cocktails or enjoying a laid-back meal.
Pro tip:
Not super hungry? Head to the lounge for their afternoon tea, where you can indulge in a selection of delicious pastries and sandwiches—perfect for a lighter treat
Miku Restaurant
Address: 70-200 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1S4, Canada
Phone: (604) 568-3900
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Cuisine type: Fine Dining, European
Price range: $$$
Miku Restaurant, perched along the scenic Burrard Inlet next to Canada Place, is where sushi lovers go for an unforgettable dining experience with a view.
Famous for its Aburi sushi, which features a flame-seared topping bursting with flavor, Miku is a must-visit spot in Vancouver.
The deluxe shokai is a star of the menu, offering a delicious selection of appetizers, sushi, and dessert that lets you sample the best of what they have to offer. The red wave roll is particularly fresh and flavorful, and the surf and turf roll is another winner.
The restaurant’s bright, inviting interior and seasonal patio add to the experience, making it an ideal spot for a meal with friends or family.
Pro tip:
Sushi fans, don’t miss out on Miku’s “Aburi Sushi Masterclass” events for a behind-the-scenes look at how they prepare their signature sushi. And remember, reservations are recommended as this place gets busy!
