$$$chinese
Copper and wood panels lend a handsome appeal to the dining room but make no mistake: Chef's Choice Chinese Cuisine deals in spectacular food. The kitchen offers dishes that are unique and classic, including many not often seen on other menus. Peruse the "kitchen specialties" to discover dishes like Chinese wine-marinated crispy duck tongues and kidneys. Few things beat a warm bowl of congee with dried oyster, salty pork and preserved egg. Minced pork and seafood soup dumplings are steamed pockets of soul-soothing and savory broth, but it's the signature marinated chicken with thick and fragra
🕐 Mo-Fr 10:30-15:00,17:00-22:00; Sa,Su 10:00-15:00,17:00-22:00
$$$Cantonese, Chinese
Elegant and traditional, well-appointed Dynasty Seafood should be on everyone's radar. As evidenced by the fish tanks, you'll find some of the freshest seafood on offer here, but there's also an array of dim sum delights and off-menu specials (be sure to ask for them). The menu is packed with choices, but regulars are rewarded by calling ahead to learn of special dishes requiring advance notice. From the classic dim sum selection (steamed watercress dumplings with shrimp and pork; shrimp dumplings), to the congee and soups (crab meat and fish maw soup with its intoxicating aroma, for one), to
$$$Mexican, Regional Cuisine
Stunning murals, colorful carvings...Ophelía is quite literally a bright spot in Vancouver's Olympic Village. It's always packed, so make a reservation. Of course, if you didn't plan ahead, a bevy of special margaritas will help you pass the time. Chef/co-owner Francisco Higareda prepares traditional pan-regional Mexican fare just as his mother, Ophelia, did. Corn-crusted octopus sided by cilantro rice, braised kale and zucchini is bested with a Oaxacan mole blanco that's rich and creamy. A trio of tacos rewards diners with delectable ingredients piled high atop locally made tortillas. End thi
$$$Spanish, Small eats
Prepare for a trip to Spain sans passport when pulling up a seat at ¿CóMO? Taperia—that is if you can score one at this perpetually packed spot. Equal parts tapas bar and despensa/bodega, it boasts all the warmth, authenticity and conviviality of similar spots in Spain.From the fritos and the raciones to a whole world of spectacular conservas, there's plenty to whet your appetite. Start with the tart and fleshy boquerones accompanied by a side of pan con tomate. If the silky berenjenas con miel are on the menu, go for it—you won't be disappointed. Daily specials show the kitchen's flair for br
$$$$chinese
Diners flock here to indulge in the waterfront views and the sometimes-fiery culinary specialties from Shaanxi, but the signature theatricality is what gilds the lily. Peking duck is given a prima donna treatment: it must be ordered beforehand on the phone, later to appear tableside with a fanfare of flambéed rum. After the choice morsels of crisp golden skin and tender meat have been artfully carved and served, you’ll even get an encore, where the last bits of the duck are transformed into a soup or a rustic peppery stir-fry. Those unwilling to make an advance commitment will find no shortage
🕐 11:30-14:30, 17:30-21:30
$$$$steak_house
Note: Temporarily closedSituated in the heart of Yaletown, this stunning steakhouse is an inviting space where contemporary style blends with serious chops—quite literally. The butcher shop next door isn't just for show; it's a defining principle of this kitchen that sources only the best. Bite into the thoroughly enjoyable Dungeness crab spring roll before considering something from their tartare menu, which runs the gamut from traditional and vegetable-focused to gamey smoked bison from Turtle Valley. Steaks are sourced locally in British Columbia and from the U.S., and there is a selection
🕐 16:30+
$$$$Contemporary, International
Drawing inspiration from the four classical elements, this strikingly designed Mount Pleasant haven offers a compellingly unique experience. Chef Vish Mayekar weaves together an eclectic blend of global cuisines—spanning flavors from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe and more—into dishes that are both approachable and creative. A yellowfin tuna tartare with the bright, tangy flavors of bhel puri shares space alongside spiced lamb skewers accented with a medjool date glaze, as well as potato gnocchi with buttery morels. A sense of warm hospitality pervades the meal, offered either à la ca
🕐 Tu-Sa 17:00+
$$moroccan
Located in one of Vancouver's hippest dining areas, Moltaqa is where Moroccan hospitality shines. The space has several nooks and crannies for seating, so even when the house is full, it still feels intimate, and warm service encourages lingering. The menu brims with tempting options. Bite into a flaky chicken pastilla, a dome-shaped phyllo pastry stuffed with shredded chicken and blanched almonds. Dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, it's the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The vegetarian platter delivers everything from tomato and pepper salad and eggplant filled with walnuts to a h
🕐 Mo-Th 16:30-23:00; Fr-Su 12:00-24:00
$$$$peruvian
The façade may be simple (think white-washed cement with a black framed door) but inside, this place is one-of-a-kind. Filled with greenery and stunning tall plants, plush seating and elegant lighting, Suyo is sophisticated without a trace of fuss. Word is out, so make a reservation, unless you care to take the chance of finding a seat at the always bustling bar. Hamachi tiradito, with its supple slices and bright yellow sauce, impresses at the first bite. White asparagus is grilled, then topped with a vibrant huancaína and tart salsa verde atop a purple potato puree. Arroz con pato delivers t
🕐 Tu-Sa 17:00-21:00
$$$Italian, Spanish Contemporary
They may occupy a corner location, but this well-run establishment deserves center stage. It's the sort of place where you might pop in for a tapa or two one night, then return a few nights later to tuck into a heartier pasta. Service is accommodating and friendly, and the menu is loaded with items that will please many diners.Nestle in to one of the side booths for an enjoyable meal. Hummus is sized generously and served with warm, freshly made flatbread. Salads, such as the heritage greens with crispy goat cheese and candied walnuts, are lovingly made. Lobster & crab ravioli in a chipotle co
🕐 Su-Th 11:00-23:00; Fr-Sa 11:00-24:00
$$$Contemporary, French
Nestled within a hip neighborhood, Homer St. Cafe entices with its inviting patio, but step inside and and you'll quickly see that this contemporary bistro is no slouch indoors, either. Equal parts trendy and quirky, with chairs doubling as wall hangings, Homer St. Cafe delivers on its promise of comfort food done really well. The rotisserie chicken is the draw, brined in their signature sauce overnight to render tender, flavorful meat. Order it half or whole and then tuck in to the crispy skin doused in gravy or buttermilk ranch. Sided by fluffy, buttery biscuits, it's a stick-to-your-ribs sa
🕐 Mo-Fr 11:30-14:30, Su-Th 17:30-22:00, Fr,Sa 17:30-23:00, PH,Sa,Su 10:30-14:30
$$$seafood
It doesn't get much more tide to table than Fanny Bay Oyster Bar where a commitment to sustainable sourcing includes harvesting from their own shellfish farms or partnering with certified fisheries. Tucked on a quiet street within walking distance from the city's stadiums, this hot spot gets crowded, especially on game days, and for good reason. Whether perched at the bar or settled in at a table, raw bar items should be top of mind. Prefer cooked items? The grilled oysters, served hot and bubbly, shellacked with Creole butter and a fresh herb-flavored gremolata, will float your boat. Then, tu
🕐 14:00-22:00
$$$$Japanese, Sushi
A nondescript facade and a location tucked amidst forgettable neighbors mean you could miss Sushi Jin, but don't. This place is tiny but mighty, with room for just six at the bar, plus two additional tables. It is something of a local secret, but those in the know come here for traditional Japanese served with a distinctive voice. Begin with otsumami like live lobster sashimi topped with osetra caviar in an olive oil and thick, savory soy sauce finished with fresh satsuma rind.Ankimo in a ponzu bath is brilliantly simple yet luxurious, followed up by miso soup in lobster broth that is far from
$$Contemporary, Mediterranean Cuisine
The clink of glasses, the hissing steam of the cappuccino maker, even the shuffling back and forth to the counter by loyal patrons...Café Medina hums with activity all day long. This casual spot attracts locals who flock here for hearty Mediterranean-style fare. Mornings are especially great here—it's when egg dishes take center stage. The heady smell of freshly made Belgian waffles may have you trying to jump the (long) line outside, but ask nicely and they'll share a few of the hand-sized waffles while you wait. Once seated, don't waste any time deciding, as the paella is a must order. Inspi
$$$Vegetarian, Vegan
The kitchen at this enduringly popular vegetarian restaurant has clearly established great links with organic suppliers in BC, hence the name-checks on the menu. These ingredients are put to very good use on an imaginative list of dishes that both intrigues and satisfies. Choices like sunchoke with salal berry and burnt onion, and beer-battered halloumi also demonstrate that the kitchen understands the importance of texture as well as taste. Many dishes are also vegan and gluten-free; to really appreciate the variety, first-timers should place their trust in the tasting menu and enjoy getting
🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr 17:30-23:00; Sa 10:00-14:30,17:30-23:00; Su 10:00-14:30,17:30-22:00
$$$$Italian, Contemporary
This downtown Italian restaurant's lofty ceilings match its equally lofty ambitions. This wasn’t always the plan: it originally meant to open as a pizzeria, which explains the large wood-burning ovens perched up above the room. But this pivot to fine dining is less severe than it seems. Friendly, uniformed servers hardly enforce the rules, and diners can still order a la carte, including pizzas at lunch. The kitchen shines brightest at more straightforward preparations, like a wonderful, chilled tomato soup with Spanish ham or delicate pasta dressed simply. The enclosed patio offers the best m
🕐 Mo 10:00-15:00; Tu-Th 10:00-22:00; Fr,Sa 10:00-23:00
$$$asian
The main influences on the cooking at Torafuku come from countries like Korea, Japan and Taiwan, so it seems entirely apt that this restaurant is located close to, but not in Chinatown. Lunch is quick and easy and all about rice bowls featuring kakuni-style braised meats, but at dinner the kitchen’s more adventurous side comes out to play. This is when you’ll discover more European elements to the dishes, like tuna tataki with Niçoise salad or Brome Lake duck rillette; and if there’s a dish you simply must order it’s their wonderful Basque cheesecake. The open kitchen is the focus of the under
🕐 We; Th; Su 11:30-21:00; Fr-Sa 11:30-22:00
$$$Contemporary, French
Bacchus is very special indeed. Cocooned inside the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, this elegant restaurant is the kind of place where quotidian concerns immediately disappear. Just off the intimate lobby, where stunning flower arrangements, a glittering chandelier and marble reception area exude tasteful luxury, Bacchus transports guests to a more refined era. There's even a grand piano to boot. Of course, it's not all style and no substance; Chef Stefan Hartmann turns out classic but memorable dishes. A terrine of foie gras mousse might be paired with roasted plum chutney and caramelized endive, whil
🕐 We-Sa 12:00-09:45, Su 16:00-09:00
$$$Thai, Regional Cuisine
The standard-bearer for exceptional Thai cuisine in Vancouver, Maenam has been a local favorite since opening in 2009. This kitchen delivers vibrant, heady cooking with bold flavors and an eye toward authenticity. Traditional dishes are given a local accent with top-tier local ingredients, from in-season produce to pristine fish caught in local waters. Dishes may be rustic in their presentation, but they reveal abundant refinement when it comes to their laser-focused flavors. Familiar items like hot and sour soup or panang curry achieve breathtaking heights thanks to a masterful use of aromati
$$$Italian, Regional Cuisine
Clean and contemporary, with white marble and modern light fixtures, Osteria Savio Volpe could easily fit right in on a street in Milan, Naples or Rome. Simple materials, including red-and-brown tiles and a muted palette, set a modern tone for cuisine that takes inspiration from the regions of Italy while balancing authenticity and expectations. Dig in to warm and tender garlic knots studded with black pepper and a thatch of grated pecorino. Sop up every last dot of the piquant marinara—it's worth the additional charge. Thinly sliced beef carpaccio is plated in traditional fashion, then topped
$$$$Seafood, Contemporary
It's large, with several dining spaces bearing distinctive styles, but Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar ties it all together with chic, modern ease. Whether it's the imported hand-painted tile floors and marble-topped bars, the romantic lighting or the buttery leather seating, luxurious details abound. The versatile menu is as instantly likeable as the setting. Discover classics like baked oysters with creamed spinach, garlic bread crumbs and wild oregano. House-made pasta is tucked with a bevy of seafood, including Pacific white prawns, Humboldt squid, clams and mussels, while Calabrian chili b
🕐 Tu-Su 16:30-22:00
$$$Contemporary, North American
Scrunched into a bare-bones space scarcely more ostentatious than the humble root vegetable whose name it bears, the appeal here is more than skin-deep. At first glance, an air of insouciance seems only fitting for a wine bar with pours exclusively from hip natural producers, but the friendly service will quickly allay any fear of snobbery. The best surprise is the cooking, emerging from a tiny corner kitchenette tucked behind the bar and offering an impressive degree of polish in a slim three-course prix fixe—utilizing local, seasonal ingredients, of course. Whether wild nettle tortelli or ro
$$$$Contemporary, Regional Cuisine
Respected native son Chef David Hawksworth helms this eponymous restaurant nestled inside the posh Rosewood Hotel Georgia. Enter through the lobby or directly from Georgia Street into an elegant bar where guests who look as if they just stepped off a fashion shoot sip well-crafted drinks. In the dining room, a shimmering chandelier and an eye-catching wall of wine set an elegant tone.Simple luxuries never disappoint, as in the caviar and oysters. Then, savor the light and elegant mushroom consommé stocked with meaty matsutake and foie gras. Agnolotti with hazelnut & celery foam is almost too p
🕐 11:30-15:00, 16:00-"late"
$$$chinese
Bao Bei may mean "precious," but there's nothing twee about this brasserie located at the edge of Vancouver's old Chinatown. Instead, Chef Joël Watanabe shows off his playful, creative cooking style, delivering food that's inventive and fun. Far from traditional, these unique takes on classic Chinese cuisine are crafted from top-notch ingredients. Take the "kick ass fried rice," their savory and a tad sweet version of the ubiquitous standard. This dish punches above its weight with an ingenious blend of prawns, bitter melon, masala-preserved mushrooms and papadam. Mantou buns filled with brais
🕐 Fr-Sa 17:30-00:00; Su-Th 17:30-22:00;
$$$$japanese, sushi
Decades in, and Octopus Garden is still going strong. There is a reason why it's still difficult to score a reservation at this quirky charmer: quality fish at a very palatable price. The namesake cephalopod decorates every nook and cranny, but kitsch aside, it's a welcoming place that makes regulars out of first-timers. Guests feast well on supremely fresh fish, and specials, like jellyfish strips tossed in garlic ponzu and peanut tofu with brown sugar, are attention-worthy. Maki can stray from tradition, as in the lobster roll on vacation, a roll with tempura Canadian lobster and creamy avoc
🕐 Th-Mo 17:00-21:30
$$$$Contemporary, North American
There are many reasons why Vancouver is considered a culinary destination, and PiDGin certainly has something to do with that. Inside, stirring artwork from local artists, soft industrial lighting and wood banquettes set a city-chic tone. The culinary approach is distinctive, offered either à la carte or as a tasting menu, with a vegetarian version also offered for the latter. Playful, even irreverent, the kitchen is clearly having fun surprising diners with unusual combinations that not only work, but they wow. Signature dishes, like the Korean rice cakes cooked in an umami-rich gochujang "bo
$$$$regional, french
When a restaurant called L’Abattoir is found next to Blood Alley and Gaoler’s Mews, you do begin to wonder if Sweeney Todd ever visited Gastown. But as soon as you step inside this quasi-industrial setting you'll find yourself instantly relaxing, thanks to the warmth and enthusiasm of the team. Dining happens on the mezzanine level, where the lighting is flattering and the atmosphere fun; if you haven’t booked, then try for a seat at the bar downstairs which affords views of the kitchen. The chefs add a French accent to quality local ingredients; the baked oysters are a firm favorite, and the
🕐 Tu-Sa 17:00-23:00;
$$$italian
It’s only fitting that this verdant sanctuary should be tucked away on a terrace of the Shangri-La Hotel, offering a sense of placid elegance. The cuisine is inspired by Friuli, in Northern Italy (as well as neighboring Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto) and reflects the area’s Slavic and Germanic influences—think braised cabbage agrodolce with pork cutlet Milanese. The menu displays a typically Italian devotion to simplicity, celebrating seasonal produce from local farms. Freshly made pastas are a feature, in particular regional specialties like cjarsons, a half-moon shape that might be filled w
$$$vietnamese
With looks somewhere between a tropical greenhouse and a nightclub, plus a cool, clubby atmosphere, this lively, colorful boîte could just as well be in West Hollywood as Vancouver. Some of the plant life is artificial, but rest assured the homey Vietnamese fare is the real deal. A hip, fashion-forward clientele is drawn in by the cooking, but the energetic vibe and disarmingly sweet service can’t hurt. You might start with grilled skewers, like a pork sausage shaped around a lemongrass stalk, or a pepper-crusted beef carpaccio topped with fragrant herbs, crispy garlic and shallot—but save roo
🕐 Tu-Th 17:00-21:30; Fr-Sa 12:00-22:30; Su 12:00-21:30
$$$mediterranean, greek
Escape to Greece via Nammos Estiatorio, whose white-washed walls, bare wood tables and azure accents evoke a breezy, sunny feel. Vancouver has no shortage of Greek fare, but the cooking at this charming enclave sets itself apart thanks to a clear dedication to quality ingredients and careful preparation. Traditional dishes reign here, starting with spreads like tzatziki and taramosalata, to an excellent example of spanakopita, with ideally crispy phyllo pastry around a savory filling of spinach and feta. Seafood options are, unsurprisingly, a strength, from crispy fried kalamari to whole grill
🕐 Mo-Tu 17:00-"late"; We-Su 12:00-"late"; Dec 24-26 "off; Jan 1 "off"
$$$Asian, Japanese
Visitors and locals alike flock to Miku. With views of Vancouver Harbor, it could coast on its looks alone, but this reliable spot instead offers high-quality dishes without the sticker shock. Sustainability is paramount; the menu proudly indicates when the selection is Ocean Wise-approved. This is a kitchen that deliciously fuses elements of French and Italian cuisine into the well-known Japanese canon. Impeccable seafood is paired with elevated sauces for memorable results. Aburi salmon oshi sushi, with wild sockeye salmon, jalapeño and their special sauce, elicits an emotional response—arti
$$persian
Chef Bardia Ilbeiggi helms this restaurant where natural lights pours in, bursts of blue calm and lattice screens and paintings by local Iranian artists mesmerize. Complex and elegant, Delara's dishes deliver the essence of fresh, flavorful Persian cooking — tartness from dried limes, yogurt and berries; freshness from herbs; richness from nuts and seeds; and aromas from spices. Served in a deep bowl, hearty aush bobs with barley and legumes. Served with bread, it could be a meal alone, but don't stop there. Beef short rib with tangy gheymeh fills the room with a heady scent. Finally, turmeric
🕐 We-Fr 11:30-14:00, 17:00-22:00; Sa-Su 11:30-14:00, 17:00-22:00
$$$Contemporary, Seafood
This buzzy neighborhood spot has no shortage of admirers, and it's not hard to see why, between the friendly, down-to-earth service, thoughtful bar program, and satisfying, lively cooking. The small menu of seafood-centric offerings changes frequently, but bold, punchy flavors are a consistent element. Guests are liable to start with raw items like oysters on the half shell, paired with fermented hot sauce made from red jalapeño, or hiramasa, dry aged in house and served with a passionfruit aguachile and cantaloupe. More substantial options might include seared Hokkaido scallops with coconut,
$$$salad
A lofty, stylish room and downtown locale attract no shortage of business lunches, but this songbird is also a pitch-perfect fit for relaxed meals among friends. The name references a fable that gives us the proverb “a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush,” and an approachable menu of rustic fare aims to make the most of the season with a bounty of shareable plates. A wood-fired oven leaves its mark on beautifully blistered Neapolitan-style pizzas, while baked sweet potatoes reveal tender interiors with crispy, golden-brown skin and flavorful xo sauce. Desserts like peaches and cream chee
$$thai
Focusing on the cuisine of northeastern Thailand, this cheery operation has quickly become one of Vancouver's favorites for casual Thai. The sizable menu makes the typical concessions to crowd-pleasing mainstays like pad Thai and pad see ew, which are prepared diligently, but it's the regional specialties on offer that will leave the strongest impression. Think boat noodles, featuring funky, aromatic beef broth loaded with bouncy meatballs and tripe, or crunchy, succulent grilled pork jowl with toasted rice and a punchy nam jaew dipping sauce. Although there are options for all tastes, diners
🕐 Mo-Fr 11:30-21:00; Sa,Su 11:30-21:30
$$$$Steakhouse, Seafood
Located in the heart of downtown's waterfront, Riley's Fish & Steak lures guests with stunning views and a polished nautically informed interior that pours on the glamour. Don't let the high rollers and spendy tourists turn you off; the staff's warmth and the kitchen's precise techniques will charm you in no time. Dishes that may seem tried-and-true are far from ho-hum. Take the Louie salad, for instance, with Baby Gem lettuce bested with beautiful lump crab, crunchy onion rings, creamy avocado and Thousand Island dressing—it's refreshing and satisfying. Then, fish and chips is surprisingly li
$$$$Japanese, Sushi
In one of the city's top hotels (Fairmont Pacific Rim), find one of its hottest hangouts, The Lobby Lounge and RawBar. It makes a big impression, and not just because of its expansive space. Snuggle up by the two-sided fireplace, nab a seat by the stage, where nightly live music is performed, or pull up a chair at the marble bar—it's all on offer. The best part? It's not just about good looks and sensational sips. Snack on a variety of sushi, including salmon motoyaki, a signature roll with chopped wild sockeye, steelhead trout, avocado, cucumber and warm motoyaki sauce. Miso soup is a good be
$$$$international, regional
Glide through the elegant lobby and up the sweeping staircase of the Fairmont Pacific Rim to arrive at Botanist, where dressing up is de rigueur. The kitchen takes great pride in sourcing the best local product, whether it's wild, locally caught seafood or produce from the Fraser Valley.Every dish on this modern Canadian menu is delightful, but some of the standouts include hand-cut tagliatelle bathed in a mushroom sauce and crowned with wild mushroom ragout. Pan-seared striploin is perfectly cooked, resting alongside a tender cabbage roulade stuffed with lush beef tongue, Chinese broccoli and
🕐 Mo-Fr 06:30-22:00; Sa-Su 07:00-22:00
$$$italian
There are myriad reasons why we all eat out – to meet up with friends, to be seen, to celebrate special events – but at the most basic level it’s about getting fed, and no one feeds you quite like Ask for Luigi. Pasta is the order of the day, whether that’s pappardelle with rich duck ragu or bigoli with an abundance of shellfish; dishes that are as generous in size as they are in flavor—many plates are large enough for two. If you can take on Luigi’s meatballs and still finish your pasta dish, then take a bow.It’s a cute little corner spot, more cabin than restaurant, with just 32 seats, and e
🕐 Mo-Su 11:30-14:30,17:30-23:00
$$$west_coast
The Mackenzie Room rightly describes itself as a “hidden gem,” as it really is waving the flag for culinary ambition in an area not overly encumbered with competitors. It boasts a laid-back vibe, a strong urban look and a blackboard menu listing dishes that focus on local, seasonal ingredients. If you can get past the puns — the likes of “Straight Outta Kombu”— you’ll find yourself enjoying generously sized and creatively conceived dishes that don’t skimp on flavor. An array of frequently changing tasting menus is offered, with the specifics of each dictated by the size of your dining party, a
$$$$Vegan, North American
Friends Colin Uyeda and Pricilla Deo have brought bright, delicious plant-based fare to Kitsilano with Folke. A wall of wine greets guests at the entrance to this small-but-sophisticated spot where deep blue walls are adorned with original seaweed pressings and dried grasses complement the tranquil, coastal ambience. The fully open kitchen turns out impressive items. Don't skip the irresistible bread served with kale "butter" sprinkled with sesame seeds. A main dish of tender yet crunchy cabbage resting in a silky mole made from potatoes has terrifically tangy and smoky notes. In addition to t
🕐 Th-Su 17:00-22:30; Mo 17:00-21:00
$$$$sushi
Sushi omakases can be serious affairs that cost as much as a ticket to Tokyo, but this counter by Chef Maumi Ozaki is a refreshingly affordable alternative. Once seated at the counter with room for just under 20 guests, Ozaki gets right to business. His movements are practiced and confident and the quality ingredients are fresh and enticing. Expect around a dozen or more nigiri, with several standouts, including the botan ebi draped over rice and seasoned with a shake of salt. Sweet and creamy, it's a definite highlight. Gently smoked skipjack topped with grated ginger and green onion is a goo
🕐 Mo-Tu 19:00-21:30; Fr 09:00-21:30; Sa 18:00-20:30; Su 12:00-14:30, 18:00-20:30;
$$$$Japanese, Sushi
Omakase is typically an intimate affair, but at Testu Sushi Bar, only three lucky diners are served at once by two young and talented chefs. This isn't a hipster hangout—there's nothing flashy or trendy about this simple yet tasteful spot. While you won't find gold flakes or caviar gilding the lily, you will discover exceptional quality. The meal begins with a quartet of cool openers including poached Spanish mackerel with mountain potato and seawood sauce; coins of tender octopus in soy-dashi; Japanese cherry trout with battera kelp; and firefly squid with creamy miso-vinaigrette. Nigiri is c
🕐 Tu-Su 17:00-21:30
$$$Japanese, Seafood
Yuwa's chic interior may lean European, but just one bite of Chef Masahiro Omori's creations and you'll be firmly planted in Japan. This is not fusion cuisine; instead, the chef adheres to the classics. External influences may not come into play, but freshness does—the menu shifts daily to take advantage of the best products available. His nigiri selection features a masterful presentation with a nest of radish threads, fragrant shiso leaf and crushed ice. Buttery chutoro melts in your mouth, and the other offerings might include snappy, clean-tasting nodoguro, premium kinmedai, delicious sayo
$$$Contemporary
While you can't count on enjoying the same dish on repeat visits to Nero Tondo, you can count on it being hyper-seasonal and Canadian to the core. Chefs/owners Devon Latté and Lucas Johnston have fashioned a farm-to-table spot where most of the ingredients hail from British Columbia, and the wine list is equally patriotic. These are ingredient-driven dishes, as in a bowl of kohlrabi mixed with caramelized honey and makrut lime nahm jim sauce, or albacore tuna served two ways for a simple but stunning plate. Dessert may include delightful offerings like a wildflower honey gelato or a Basque-ins
$$$chinese, seafood
This boisterous dining hall draws crowds for its highly enjoyable Cantonese fare, while dim sum rules the day and dinner service offers a wide range of specialties. The interior leans elegant with a curved wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, glittering crystal beaded chandeliers and a photo-realistic mural of cherry trees in blossom. However, families and groups looking for good eats and good times keep things grounded.Diners check off their dim sum choices from a printed menu bearing helpful photos for novices, and selections emerge from the kitchen freshly prepared and steaming hot. Some of th
🕐 10:00-15:00, 17:00-22:00
$$chinese
Ensconced on the second floor of the Marine Gate shopping mall, this expansive banquet hall-cum-restaurant is no secret to locals in search of excellent dim sum and Cantonese specialties. The spacious room readily accommodates large groups, the better to sample a wide range of mouthwatering options—though at peak hours, you may face wait times. During the day, the menu offers the traditional array of carefully prepared dumplings, many featuring exceptionally plump, juicy shrimp, as well as warming bowls of congee. At dinner, expect a broader variety of seafood, including pricier delicacies lik
🕐 Mo-Su 09:30-15:00,17:00-22:00
$$$Contemporary, Regional Cuisine
Wildlight Kitchen + Bar is at the center of the quickly growing community of leləm̓ Village. This light-filled space is enhanced with natural and organic decorative elements, but the relaxed sophistication belies the serious nature of Chef Warren Chow's kitchen, where sourcing is paramount. Begin with a stunning charcuterie board that substitutes seafood for the ubiquitous meat to snack on everything from house-made salmon pastrami, marinated Salt Spring Island mussels, and pickled sea asparagus to tataki of smoked albacore tuna and cod rillette topped with cured ikura. A thick fillet of Ginda