The Ultimate Vancouver Food Tour: 15 iconic restaurants that are hometown specialties

Read our feature on The Naam, originally published in July 2025.

For farm-to-table: Harvest Community Foods

243 Union St., Vancouver

This Chinatown spot sources its fresh, organic ingredients from local farmers and artisans. The menu is small but mighty, featuring comforting dishes like ramen, rice bowls, and hand-made dumplings. Don’t miss the signature Harvest Ramen, made with a rich pork and chicken broth, pickled ginger, and a soft-boiled egg.

Read our review of Harvest Community Foods, originally published in May 2025.

For casual dining: JOEY

Various locations, Vancouver

JOEY has been a Vancouver mainstay for over two decades, serving up casual, globally inspired dishes in a sleek and modern setting. From sushi cones to steak frites, there’s something for everyone on the menu. The restaurant chain boasts a strong commitment to sustainability and sourcing quality ingredients.

Read our feature on JOEY, originally published in January 2025.

For fine dining: Hawksworth Restaurant

801 W Georgia St., Vancouver

Award-winning chef David Hawksworth’s eponymous restaurant consistently ranks among the best in the city. The seasonal menu features elevated Canadian cuisine, with dishes like Pacific sablefish, seared scallops, and roasted duck breast. The elegant dining room and impeccable service make it a top choice for special occasions.

Read our review of Hawksworth Restaurant, originally published in June 2025.

Whether you’re a visitor looking to experience Vancouver’s culinary scene or a local wanting to revisit old favourites, these iconic restaurants offer a taste of the city’s diverse and vibrant food culture.

The Naam is a popular spot in Vancouver known for its bohemian chic ambiance, complete with a garden patio and nightly live music. This unique combination creates the perfect setting for a relaxing and enjoyable dining experience.

In addition to The Naam, Vancouver offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian restaurants for those looking to indulge in plant-based cuisine. Chinatown BBQ is a must-visit for Chinese food enthusiasts, offering delicious roasted ducks and steamed chickens. Fanny Bay Oyster Bar is the go-to spot for fresh seafood, with a focus on sustainable shellfish and seafood.

For those craving fried chicken, DownLow Chicken Shack on Commercial Drive is the place to go. Their crispy chicken dishes, including The Baller and Nashville-spiced OG, are sure to satisfy any fried chicken lover.

If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on Lee’s Donuts, a local favorite that has been serving delicious doughnuts since 1979. Their classic flavors like honey dip and glazed cake are a must-try for any doughnut enthusiast.

For a more upscale dining experience, Hy’s Steakhouse is the perfect choice for steak lovers. Their Canadian grade-A beef and classic dishes like Steak Diane are prepared tableside for a truly memorable dining experience.

Lastly, for a dining experience with a view, head to the Teahouse in Stanley Park. Nestled in the beauty of Stanley Park, this restaurant offers elegant dining with stunning views of English Bay and the North Shore mountains.

Whether you’re craving Chinese cuisine, fresh seafood, fried chicken, doughnuts, steak, or a scenic dining experience, Vancouver’s diverse restaurant scene has something for everyone. Check out these restaurants and more for a taste of what the city has to offer. the perspective of an aspiring young entrepreneur about the benefits of starting a business at a young age.

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