So you’ve booked your trip to Vancouver. You’ve got the airfare set, the hotel covered, and a few things planned on your weekend itinerary (for help look at our post on Things to Do this Summer in Vancouver). But what about food? If you’re like most people and get “hangry” after a long day of activities, we’ve got you covered with a list of go-to dining options in downtown Vancouver that will be sure to leave you feeling full and happy.
If you are staying with us at Sunset Inn, these downtown restaurants are either a close walk or short Uber drive away from the steps of the hotel!
Giardino Restaurant
This Tuscan-inspired restaurant located on Hornby Street boasts an amazing ambiance with its lush outdoor patio and lifted wooden-beamed indoor ceiling. One step inside this restaurant and you feel like you have been transported into Italy! Their food is pretty good too – so much so that it has been rated the 24th best restaurant in all of Vancouver by Trip Advisor. Giardino serves a wide range of both Italian and Mediterranean dishes – it has a large menu so you’re sure to find something here that everyone in your group will enjoy.
Five Sails
Five Sails has one of the best dining views in Vancouver, as your table is on the waterfront overlooking Vancouver’s inner harbor. While dishes tend to be on the pricier side, this upscale dining establishment offers French-fusion items that are absolutely delicious. Just look at their many reviews online and you’ll easily see why this spot rated as third in all of the restaurants in Vancouver by Trip Advisor. Five Sails has outstanding service with a wait staff that will make sure to give you menu recommendations and offer personalized service.
Cafe Medina
This go-to brunch spot in the Library District is so good, that sometimes you’ll see a line form before the restaurant even opens! Cafe Medina serves Mediterranean-inspired food, coffee, and Belgian waffles that has made it a very popular breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch destination. It’s open every day from 9 am to 3 pm. And one of the best parts? They offer a variety of cocktails with their brunch!
Ancora
Another amazing waterfront dining option is Ancora’s False Creek location, which serves Japanese and seafood dishes that have earned them more than a few accolades since they opened in 2015. You really cannot go wrong with anything on the menu, but make sure you start with something from their raw bar or roll menu. This is definitely a great spot if you are craving nice seafood, but Ancora serves non-fish items as well, such as a selection of steaks or even duck.
MeeT in Gastown
Another solid brunch option, MeeT in Gastown serves comfort food, craft cocktails, and yummy brunch with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. It’s located in the Gastown neighborhood of Vancouver, still just a short drive away from Sunset Inn. While they may be most well-known for their brunch, they serve solid handhelds and you’ve got to try the poutine!
Burgoo
Another comfort food option is Burgoo, a bistro that serves a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches. It’s a great option if you are looking for a casual restaurant after a long day of exploring. Unsure of what to order? We’ve heard great things about the chicken pot pie – a comfort food classic! You’ll most likely see a few of these locations throughout the city during your time here.
Brix & Mortar
Another great dining option, Brix & Mortar is a modern Canadian restaurant and wine bar with incredible ambiance. It’s located in a 1912 heritage brick building in the Yaletown neighborhood of downtown. Choose to order small plates with your cocktail or wine, or dive into one of their main courses such as the salmon, tenderloin, or lamb. Brix & Mortar has one of the most beautiful courtyard patios you’ve ever seen. And here’s a pro tip – come during happy hour, where glasses of wine and beer are only $6 and most nights there is live music!
Yaletown Brewing Co
Looking for a casual spot to relax and enjoy a pint? Yaletwon Brewing Co is a craft brewery that offers their flagship brews along with seasonal rotators. Not a big beer drinker? Yaletown also offers a wide range of cocktails and wines to choose from as well. AND they have a huge food menu! They may be best known for their burgers, but their apps and pizzas are great as well. And pro tip: Yaletown Brewing Co has a fantastic happy hour menu from 2-5 pm each day with some great deals on both food and drink!
We hope you enjoy your time in Vancouver wherever you end up eating and drinking!
