One of the top perks of the West Coast food scene is the proximity to so much incredibly fresh seafood! We are so lucky to have such a delicious bounty from the sea that sometimes we might take it for granted. But every now and then it’s good to wade back into the water (this is a metaphor) and remind ourselves of what we truly have. From the precisely cut nigiri with a hint of wasabi to the bold flavours of smoked salmon, Metro Vancouver has a wealth of options if you’re craving the rich harvest of tastes from beneath the waves. Not only that, but the summer is an excellent time to do it! Fish ‘n chips on a patio while the seaside breeze rolls in, or perhaps a round of Pacific oysters like Kushhi or Fanny Bay to ring in National Oyster Day (August 5). So drop anchor for a bit, scroll down and see what delicious opportunities the tide has brought in today.
The Fish Counter
Vancouver, Vancouver’s North Shore
Homey, unpretentious, and with perfectly crisped batter. Everything a fish and chips shop should be! Serving premium, sustainably harvested fish that delivers unmatched freshness, when you pull up a stool and dig into your basket of local cod, you’ll taste the difference that dedication makes!
Hook Seabar
Vancouver
With a beautiful view of the water and the central public plaza in English Bay, this is an iconic downtown spot for excellent seafood. Start with calamari spiced with red pepper and jalapeños paired with a local craft beer. Then maybe sous-vide octopus, with a shipwrecked Caesar, then… You know what, maybe just have a look at the menu. We could be here all day.
Cockney Kings Fish & Chips
Burnaby, Vancouver
Carrying the delicious torch of one of the Commonwealth’s finest culinary traditions, this chipper shop will make you feel right at home, regardless of where you’re from. Take your pick from cod, haddock, salmon, and snapper. Each one is packed with flavour, and perfectly complemented by the melt-in-your-mouth beer batter.
Fishworks
Vancouver’s North Shore
For something a bit more posh, this spot on Vancouver’s North Shore revels in the creative possibilities that local seafood provides. Torched wild salmon served with avocado and hoisin aioli, Haida Gwaii sablefish with cauliflower puree, or grilled marinated octopus served in a chimichurri sauce. The inventive kitchen crew never fails to impress and satisfy!
Steveston Seafood House
Richmond
Award-winning fine dining in the heart of Steveston Village, keep this one in mind for a special occasion. With each table within walking distance of the fisherman’s wharf, it’s no surprise that every seafood dish is at the peak of freshness.
The Shellfish Shack
Richmond
The epitome of a small business with a big heart, this little spot takes pride in serving fresh local ingredients through the tasty frame of Asian fusion dishes. Whether it’s with marinated salmon sashimi, pan-fried prawns, or a seafood hotpot with a savoury broth, this “shack” packs a huge amount of flavour.
Seahorse Grill
Surrey
Located in the gorgeous waterfront community of Crescent Beach, this neighbourhood eatery is a true community gem. Owned and run by Chef Curtis Gowler, the warm service and excellent menu will have you returning for second helpings of fresh oysters, jumbo prawns and show-stopping lobster pot pie.
Venetis Restaurant Steak & Seafood House
Langley City
A family-operated mainstay of the Langley City foodie scene, keep this one in mind the next time you’re getting all you’re assembling your next crew reunion. The robust menu is perfect for family-style sharing, especially their fresh seafood options.
Bambada Korean Seafood Restaurant
Coquitlam
Modern Korean cuisine made with fresh locally caught ingredients! Bambada translates as Night Sea, the tranquil time after sunset when the water calms. It’s a relaxed vibe where you can ease into a moment and savour each sense, and that’s exactly what the ambience here provides. Start with a spicy seafood stew, or ramen served with mussels and see where the mood takes you next.
Featured Photo credit: www.fishworks.ca
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