This small, independent cafe exemplifies Vancouver. It's not overly decorated. There's a roughness to the design. They make simple and precise coffee that hipsters love. Read more.
Without a doubt, one of my favorite places to brunch in Vancouver. Be prepared for a crazy line-up, though -- wouldn't recommend going in a large group unless it's after 1pm.
Yet another favourite date of mine. Stroll through the market, pick up some choice ingredients together and then go home to woo him with your culinary fabulousness.
Blue Water’s sustainable seafood epitomizes West Coast: sablefish in a miso sake glaze, white sturgeon with chioggia beets & a pumpernickel crust, local scallops in a candied ginger & citrus sauce. Read more.
Stanley Park is a walker’s paradise in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Take a scenic walk along the seawall, enjoy the underwater wonders of the Vancouver Aquarium or catch a sunset at Third Beach.
"Canada’s largest aquarium and a world leader in conservation efforts; more than 70,000 animals; trainer-led shows include beluga whales, dolphins, sea lions, and sea otters; hands-on tidal pool"
"Known throughout the world for innovative and original exhibits; a permanent collection of 9,000 plus pieces; excellent assembly of Brit Columbian artwork, most significant collection by Emily Carr."
A gorgeous botanical garden in the centre of Vancouver. You would never know what is behind its doors. Plants and flowers from all over the world and even a maze!!
Excellent place for kids to blow off steam while parents grab a few minutes of quiet browsing. Don't miss the water park nearby.
Spending the day and enjoying the most historic and distinctive neighbourhoods in Vancouver was an interesting and unique experience! A must-go-to place for tourists especially!
Goes off every 15min. Buy a coffee at Starbucks and sit outside to see/hear the steam clock go off.
Prime location for picnicking, Stand up Paddling, Swimming, photo op via bike ride around Stanely, and just a general escape from the city!
Bella Gelateria’s James Coleridge won both the Jury and People's Choice awards at the 2012 Florence Gelato Festival. He uses quality ingredients to make unique, multiethnic flavors in small-batchs.
It's on the seediest block in Vancouver, but they have amazing flavors and crazy mixtures, like bourbon-bacon. Read more.
try: the pine nut croissant, chocolate cookie w/ rosemary and sea salt, and the black sesame religieuse. For something more savory, consider the sandwiches made with (naturally) house-made croissants
Offers some creative alternatives to standard ice cream flavours. Love the Chamomile Honey and the London Fog.
A summer must when you're in B.C.! La Casa Gelato has over 200 flavors...and some are a bit strange! anywhere from perogy, cheese, ranch, pickle etc...but it's quite delish.
Science World is one of our family's favorite spots. So much to do for all ages. Be sure to take the demonstration shows at center stage at various times in the day. The "Toy Show" episode is great!
"Extends from far western beaches at Spanish Banks, through Kitsilano, past the Olympic Village and Science World, past 2nd and 3rd beaches, around Stanley Park, through Coal Harbour to downtown."
We've visited Japadog multiple times in the last 3 years and my favorite has always been the "three cheese spicy terimayo"!
The tempura mozzarella and tomato in broth special was delicious, and their house beer is great (don't be afraid to take on the giant bottle solo!).
Unbelievably fast and professional service. Grab a bike and go around the Stanley park sea wall- its flat and easy, even for someone who hasn't gotten on a bike since tween years
Amazing ramen that comes in many varieties and in reasonable portions. Only place in Vancouver where tsuke-men (egg noodles ramen to dip in broth) is served.
One of my favourite spots for espresso and a treat for my sweet tooth. The chocolate eclairs, Madeleines and Macarons are scrumptious. It's extremely busy, which gives it a nice, lively atmosphere!
Eating a sandwich from Finch's is the most non-sexual mouth sex a person can have.
For a quick breather, stop by and visit this beautiful garden. Try to find the "Everything is Going to Be Alright" sign. :-) Read more.
The decor may be modern but the technique is traditional at this popular Chinatown brasserie. Excellent cocktails, generous sharing plates and "Kick Ass House-Fried Rice". [Eater 38 Member]
The only coffee shop I've seen with indoor bike parking. My new favourite downtown/west end place!
As an introduction to West Coast flavours this can't be beaten. Mix and match the B.C. platter; cheese, charcuterie and wine paired with house-made or locally-supplied condiments. [Eater 38 Member]
A true "off the beaten path" gem. Make sure to check it out, even if you have to go out of your way a little.
Yaletown is a super chic & trendy area to be. A selection of around 25 restaurants, a boutique hotel & much more. Try Minami for dinner & Yaletown Brewing Co for beers. The Parlor for pizza too!
"From E 2nd to E 33rd, South Main is an eclectic family-friendly mix of retailers, parks, and coffee shops. Heritage houses and tree-lined streets branch off from restaurants, antique stores, etc."
"All-you-can-eat curry. Same area but across to Fraser and ~46th is Rocco's, the best place to find silk and other import fabrics in every color you can imagine at reasonable prices."
Amazing food, great service, very easy to eat here as a vegetarian and or with food allergies. Bathroom is in the kitchen, but staff is super friendly so its not weird. Vegan mushroom gravy rocks!
Next up, a stroll through historic Chinatown where I grew up! There are open markets, unique clothing boutiques, tea shops, and much more to see.
Head to the North Shore to Lonsdsale Quay Market for a fresh food market, specialty shops and delicious eateries. Hop on the SeaBus from Waterfront Station and you’ll be there within 15 minutes.
Great place for a family barbecue! Kids playground right beside, seawall, all in all a great place
English Bay keeps getting better and better. A little more crowded in 2011, as compared to the 1930's, but still one of thee best places to relax and sun.
Not nearly as big/bustling as the Richmond market but sometimes there is still a sweet deal to be had!
HAWC also sells prints, cards, books and more. New products being added regularly.
Markets run 2 days in march, may, august, and november! $2 admission, 11am - 5pm. www.portobellowest.com for details
Be sure to visit the Sad Plants section to see if you can give a sad plant a good home. :) also, stroll through the forest! All proceeds go to ubc's garden centre.
Place = amazing. I fear heights, but other than 1st time across bridge, I didn't even flinch.More awestruck by the beauty.Definitely do the bridge, the Treetops Adventure AND the Cliffwalk.
"Store-lined, especially recommended for a lazy afternoon stroll. Neighborhood of wooden heritage homes, cozy coffee shops, and highly browsable stores."
Ranked the sexiest beach in North America, it's definitely my favourite in Vancouver. Adequare sand/grass mix and shade available (and a pool)
A small but great little museum featuring all things Vancouver. Loved the Happy Show and Neon Ugly exhibit as well as artifacts through Vancouver's history.
"Excellent little gallery specializes in contemporary and often quite challenging pieces. Traveling shows plus chin-stroking exhibits from a permanent collection of Canadian avant-garde works."
Absolutely gorgeous! You could spend all day here. Maps are posted throughout the park. Tons of different trails and dog friendly!
Most relaxed cafe with such a great vibe. Fantastic coffee, fantastic food. Share the picnic board. It's a treat. Personal Favorite place in Vancouver.
The essential Vancouver Izakaya experience. Get there at lunch to score one of the Deluxe Bento Boxes (only 10 made each day) to try a whole heap of absolutely everything. [Eater 38 Member]
A Texan visiting Vancouver heard about good tacos and said "We'll see..." SERIOUSLY good tacos. Not just good for Vancouver, but they could stand on their own anywhere.
A beautiful tropical paradise in the midst of Queen Elizabeth Park. Read more.
Beautiful time with the family. Dress warmly (toque, mitts, and boots). Dancing lights are very neat. Parking is a bit of a nightmare and it is very crowded.
A charming little shop where you can get a quick bite and great cup of coffee. Perfect for a traveler on their way to something else. Very few seats.
Excellent food. Excellent drinks. Excellent service. The staff totally spoiled us and went above and beyond. Definitely one of the best spots in Vancouver.
The salmon tacos are unreal (not to mention fresh off the boat). Best lunch in Vancouver and perfect on a sunny day. Pro-tip, call ahead to order to avoid the typical hour wait.
"Vancouver's first and only First Nations restaurant. Freshly-made aboriginal dishes made with local ingredients."
Little hip print shop that feels like you've entered a Wes Anderson movie
Shelves are towering with secondhand books. Scattered seats invite casual reading. Helpful staff have encyclopedic knowledge of current stock. Strong on art books. Delightful!
Every time I'm in a good mood, got to get a set of Fluevogs - love the flagship ambiance
so many pretty things from ready made to threads that you can knit yourself!
Great people watching spot if you're at the window bar, but also a great spot for meetings with some unique seating options.
