The Best Restaurant in Vancouver, British Columbia

Background Illustration for Restaurants

From inventive neighborhood bistros to glamorous Downtown dining rooms to ethnic restaurants that rival those in the world capitals, Vancouver has a diverse array of gastronomic options. Many cutting-edge establishments are perfecting what we call Modern Canadian fare, which—at the western end of the country—incorporates regional seafood (notably salmon, halibut, and spot prawns) and locally grown produce. Vancouver is all about "localism," with many restaurants emphasizing the provenance of their ingredients and embracing products that hail from within a 100-mile-or-so radius of the city, or at least from within BC.

With at least 40% of the region's population of Asian heritage, it's no surprise that Asian eateries abound in Vancouver. From mom-and-pop noodle shops, curry houses, and corner sushi bars to elegant and upscale dining rooms, cuisine from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, and India (and to a lesser extent, from Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia) can be found all over town.

Havana

$$

Old Havana meets new Vancouver in this lofty, energetic spot, where the kitchen puts a west coast spin on Cuban classics. Start with ceviche, avocado tostones, or birria tacos, then try the Cubano (porchetta, honey ham, and Swiss cheese on a Cuban bun), the paella, or the grilled octopus. It's easy to make an evening of it. After dark, Havana morphs into a lively hangout, with mojitos, margaritas, and sangria, plus rum flights, craft beer, and signature sippers like the Hemingway Daiquiri. The patio is one of the best on the Drive, and there's even an intimate 60-seat theater in the back room hosting an eclectic mix of music, dance, theater, and comedy.

1212 Commercial Dr., Vancouver, BC, V5L 3X4, Canada
604-253-9119
Known For
  • Cuban food
  • Mojitos
  • On-site theater

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