Ranked: Vancouver’s Best Restaurants of 2024

Vancouver’s culinary landscape is as dynamic as its skyline, offering a blend of global flavors and local ingredients. While the city boasts renowned eateries, the real treasures are hidden in plain sight—restaurants known to those who seek extraordinary dining experiences away from the mainstream. This guide will take you on a journey through Vancouver’s best-kept secrets, where every meal is a discovery.

1. St. Lawrence

Location: 269 Powell St, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: French-Canadian
Vibe: Cozy, rustic, and intimate
About: Nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s East End, St. Lawrence offers a heartfelt homage to Quebecois cuisine. The ambiance is a charming blend of French elegance and Canadian warmth, making it the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a quiet celebration.
Website: www.stlawrencerestaurant.com
Instagram: @stlawrencerestaurant

2. Kissa Tanto

Location: 263 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Japanese-Italian Fusion
Vibe: Retro, chic, and intimate
About: Tucked away in Chinatown, Kissa Tanto serves a masterful fusion of Japanese and Italian flavors. With its retro décor and dim lighting, this restaurant feels like stepping back into a 1960s Tokyo jazz bar, where every dish is an unexpected delight.
Website: www.kissatanto.com
Instagram: @kissatanto

3. AnnaLena

Location: 1809 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian
Vibe: Playful,About: A gem in the Kitsilano neighborhood, AnnaLena is where contemporary Canadian cuisine meets playful innovation. The restaurant’s menu is an ever-evolving canvas of creative dishes, all served in a setting that feels both trendy and welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you can indulge in the unexpected, making it a must-visit for those looking to experience the cutting edge of Vancouver’s food scene.
Website: www.annalena.ca
Instagram: @annalenayvr

4. The Acorn

Location: 3995 Main St, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Vibe: Chic, earthy, and sophisticated
About: For those seeking a plant-based dining experience that doesn’t compromise on creativity or flavor, The Acorn is Vancouver’s top choice. This Main Street staple offers a rotating menu that highlights the best of local, seasonal produce, all crafted into visually stunning and deliciously satisfying dishes.
Website: www.theacornrestaurant.ca
Instagram: @acornvancouver

5. Miku

Location: 200 Granville St #70, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Japanese
Vibe: Sleek, elegant, and vibrant
About: Overlooking the waterfront, Miku is renowned for its aburi sushi—flame-seared and served with impeccable precision. The sleek, modern design of the restaurant complements the vibrant flavors and artistic presentation of each dish, making it a favorite for those who appreciate both ambiance and culinary excellence.
Website: www.mikurestaurant.com
Instagram: @mikurestaurant

6. Nightingale

Location: 1017 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian
Vibe: Chic, lively, and inviting
About: In the heart of downtown, Nightingale serves contemporary Canadian dishes that are designed for sharing. The menu is diverse and seasonal, offering everything from wood-fired pizzas to inventive salads. The lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for social dining, where every visit feels like a celebration.
Website: www.hawknightingale.com
Instagram: @hawknightingale

7. Ask for Luigi

Location: 305 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Italian
Vibe: Cozy, casual, and welcoming
About: Ask for Luigi is a small Italian eatery that has gained a big reputation for its handmade pasta and warm, inviting atmosphere. Located just off the beaten path, it’s the kind of place where you feel like family the moment you walk in. Perfect for a laid-back dinner where the food is as comforting as the company.
Website: www.askforluigi.com
Instagram: @askforluigi

8. Phnom Penh

Location: 244 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC
Cuisine: Cambodian-Vietnamese
Vibe: Lively, bustling, and authentic
About: A true institution in Vancouver’s culinary scene, Phnom Penh is the go-to spot for those craving bold and authentic Southeast Asian flavors. Known for their famous butter beef and addictive chicken wings, this family-run restaurant offers a lively dining experience that feels like a journey to the streets of Phnom Penh.
Website: www.phnompenh.ca
Instagram: @phnompenhrestaurant

These secret spots capture the essence of Vancouver’s diverse food scene, each offering a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these hidden gems will take your dining adventures to new heights.

So go ahead, explore, and savor the best that Vancouver has to offer.