Have you heard the culinary buzz? There are some exciting new eats and drinks in town. If you haven't been to the West End lately, there's now 10 more reasons to check out the neighbourhood that can satisfy any craving, mood, or even budget.
It won't take long before you discover your new favourite date place, something swoon-worthy or simply the perfect bite with friends. Don't wait to tuck into menu offerings prepared with creativity and care that not only represent global influences, but the best of the West Coast and local ingredients.
"The diversity of cuisines that can be found on Davie, Denman and Robson Streets will take your taste buds on a global and cultural adventure, ranging from great value offerings to Michelin-recognized dishes," says Teri Smith, executive director for the West End BIA.
"Food brings people together and is a shared human experience that transcends cultural and social barriers."
Dine alfresco to catch all the dynamic foot traffic or chill in a laid-back bright spot.
"The West End is the summer destination with English Bay and Stanley Park drawing millions of visitors every year," reveals Smith.
"It's incredible to see our beaches, parks and streets filled with people, spilling over into our sun-soaked patios brimming with folks surrounded by delicious food, drinks and good vibes."
Indoors or out, don't miss these great new hot spots:
Traditional dishes of true Indian flavours, spicy, savory, or sweet, prepared with time-honoured cooking techniques. Pairing spices and fresh ingredients from the best sources. Must try: Fish tikka with homemade garam masala and brushed yogurt.
Hearty Vietnamese vegan and vegetarian creations, like pad Thai, miso udon truffle carbonara, caramelized tofu claypot, and Hestia garden roll with signature sauce. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Hestia banana roll. Must try: Crispy summer roll.
Vibrant flavours of India with dishes, snacks and street food that hit the spot. Look for paneer tikka, momos, masala Maggie, butter chicken and breakfast staple, kulche chole. Best seller: Black currant shots. Must try: Cotton candy drink.
4. Jinmi
South Korean soul food, specializing in marinated soy crab. Renowned for its raw female spring roe crab, marinated with 23 ingredients. Other hits include raw marinated seafood, such as salmon and shrimp. Must try: marinated soy crab.
5. Los Chavos Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
Authentic, fresh, locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, handmade tortillas and the best Mexican spices. Think crispy tostadas, birria tacos, and cumin and coriander chicken plates. Pair with mango-chilli margaritas. Family secret salsas, too. Must try: Baja fish tacos.
6. NomNom Seoul
A fresh Korean snack bar experience. Popular dishes and bites include: build your own kimbap, crab noodles, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and Nom's signature tuna, and spicy pork. Must try: Rabokki (tteokbokki + ramen).
7. Sula
Rich navy and luxe saffron tones dominate a sleek room. Classic Indian curries like makhana, various tandoori flatbreads, street food and share plates. Inspired cocktails with signature Indian flavours and liquors. Must try: Vegan curries.
8. Sweet 7
Premium quality beverages made with fresh fruits and pure raw ingredients. Refreshing mango drinks, fruit teas and soft-serve flavours, like mango coconut, and bubble tea. Must try: Mango Pomelo Sago, their signature beverage.
9. Tre Viet
Offers of homemade northern and southern Vietnamese classics like Pho soup, and signature Bun Cha, Hanoi-style vermicelli noodles with grilled meats. End with Vietnamese caramel flan, and Vietnamese egg coffee. Must try: Hanoi crispy crab parcels.
10. Unni Pastries
Specializing in cakes, plus sweet and savoury treats, including brioche donuts and Korean inspired pastries. Cheese and charcuterie grazing platters, crafted from premium ingredients are a local favourite. Serving Umbria coffee. Must try: Cake!
"The West End is a richly diverse neighbourhood, where new and long-standing businesses make their homes, welcoming in the community to share a piece of their culture, traditions and delicacies," reveals Smith.
"It is a community in its truest form, where a strong sense of belonging and pride pervades, where people gather and connect at their favourite local spot, and where everyone knows each other by name."
For the love of local—bring your appetite. For more information, visit www.instagram.com/westendbia
