With a few more weeks of golden sunshine ahead, there’s no better time to get out and explore. And what better way to soak it all in than with an impromptu road trip? To help you make the most of it, we’ve put together an edible itinerary featuring some of our favourite eateries across the Lower Mainland. So hit the road and follow your appetite, we’ve got you covered for every meal.
Start by mixing and matching courses and cuisines! It’s often the most unexpected combinations that lead to the best new experiences. Japanese BBQ in Richmond for lunch, authentic German fare in North Vancouver for dinner, and maybe a sweet waffle in downtown Vancouver to finish the day… there’s no end to the possibilities!
Richmond
Breakfast
The Story Cafe
2800 Sexsmith Road, Richmond
Known for its cozy, vintage atmosphere and high-quality breakfast dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, this spot is a community favourite. Patrons describe the food as “outstanding” and “consistently perfect,” with a menu that includes creative dishes and a welcoming vibe. It’s the perfect spot for a memorable breakfast experience any day of the week.
Breakfast Table
12480 No 1 Rd #120, Richmond
This family-run restaurant offers tasty and unique breakfast dishes, like seafood benedicts and gluten-free waffles. With fresh ingredients and a creative menu, it’s become an AM destination in Steveston Village.
Lunch
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
7871 Westminster Hwy, Richmond
This popular Japanese BBQ spot offers a fun, interactive dining experience where you grill premium meats at your table. Known for its lively atmosphere and diverse menu, it’s a great option for a fun lunch with friends.
Earls Kitchen + Bar
5300 No. 3 Rd #304, Richmond
Earls is a West Coast staple for good reason! The vibrant, upscale-casual dining spot has a diverse and delicious lunch menu with notable dishes like truffle tortellini, steak frites, and poke bowls. You can always count on Earls for consistent quality, reasonable prices, and excellent service.
Dinner
Catch Kitchen + Bar
3866 Bayview St #200, Richmond
With stunning waterfront views, this Steveston Village spot specializes in fresh, local seafood. The modern decor, rooftop patio with a 270-degree view, make this a wonderful option for golden hour with someone special. Solid summer vibes, whether you’re organizing an anniversary dinner or a larger party with friends.
Baan Lao
4100 Bayview St #100, Richmond
This award-winning restaurant offers an outstanding upscale Thai dining experience. You can always expect creative dishes that speak to the immense level of artistry in the kitchen. Their crispy duck is a must-order if you visit!
Desserts
Something Sweet
160-12420 No. 1 Rd, Richmond
Decadent Asian-inspired ice cream dishes, or indulgent sweet toasts, this Steveston gem has you covered for dessert. With the generous portions, there’s a good chance you’ll need a hand finishing yours, so be sure to bring a friend for a bit of help!
Little Pisces
8531 Alexandra Rd, Unit 128, Richmond
Serving perfectly crisped and fluffy pastries with creamy soft serve, if you’ve never tried Japanese taiyaki dessert, this is the place for you! The freshly made fish-shaped cakes are the perfect vessel for your choice of ice cream. We recommend the matcha or the lemon tea sorbet!
Vancouver
Breakfast
Jam Cafe
556 Beatty St, Vancouver
Located just outside Vancouver’s Chinatown, Jam Cafe is a top-rated spot known for its decadent breakfast and brunch service. Menu highlights include the chicken French toast (buttermilk-fried chicken on thick-cut brioche) and the red velvet pancakes with cream cheese icing. You might have to wait in line, but trust us, each heavenly dish is worth the wait!
OEB Breakfast Co
1137 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver
Elevating morning meals with creative, farm-to-table dishes and a passion for quality, OEB is a standout among the brunch crowd. Drop by the next time you’re looking to start your day with a bit of extra fanfare. Try the Canadian lobster and shrimp crepes or the always classic Gold Digga (poached eggs with duck fat-fried potatoes and black truffle hollandaise).
Lunch
The Flying Pig
1168 Hamilton St, Vancouver
One of Yaletown’s most enduring eateries, The Flying Pig, has a loyal following of foodies who adore its unique Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine. With a fantastic wooden patio area, you can enjoy a glass of wine and appetizers as you people-watch the eclectic crowd of the area. Notable lunch dishes include the truffle mushroom flatbread and the signature pulled pork sandwich.
Nuba
207 W Hastings St, Vancouver
While they have a handful of locations around the city, the Nuba inside the historic Dominion building will always have a special place in our hearts. Down a flight of stairs, the cozy bistro has a wonderful ambience as shadows from the street above create a dance of light through the room. Serving authentic Lebanese cuisine, Nuba’s lunch menu is full of classics like falafel plates, chicken shawarma wraps, and of course, their signature Najib’s Special (crispy cauliflower with tahini).
Dinner
El Caminos
3250 Main Street, Vancouver
Latin-American street food is the name of the game at this Mount Pleasant community spot. Drop by for a Cubano sandwich or a trio of baja-styled tacos as you soak up the stylish vibe that only Main Street can deliver. Another fantastic patio option too!
Chambar Restaurant
568 Beatty St, Vancouver
An intimate Gastown brasserie, Chambar has perfected the art of setting the mood. The warm ambience and lighting create an unparalleled vibe for you to connect with a friend over mussels and a cocktail. With a Belgian-inspired menu packed with flavour and fresh ingredients, keep this one in your back pocket whenever you need a tasty pick-me-up.
Desserts
Nero Belgian Waffle Bar
1002 Seymour St, Vancouver
Serving authentic Belgian waffles (sweet and savory) topped with fruits, sauces, and ice cream, Nero offers a satisfying end to any meal. Open until 10 p.m., their summer patio is a wonderful spot for a late-night snack as you savour the last minutes of sunshine.
Le Parfait
812 Homer St, Vancouver
This charming creperie specializes in elegant French-style desserts, including beautifully plated crêpes, parfaits, and soufflés. It’s a cozy, romantic spot perfect for a post-dinner treat or a late-night indulgence.
Vancouver’s North Shore
Breakfast
Tomahawk Restaurant
1550 Philip Ave, North Vancouver
A legendary all-Canadian diner known for hearty breakfasts made with free-range eggs and organic beef. The retro vibe and totem decor add a nostalgic charm.
Kitchen Craft Eatery
150 Esplanade W #210, North Vancouver
This cozy eatery serves classic breakfast fare with a homestyle twist. Think egg sandwiches, crispy hash browns, and fresh-baked biscuits. It’s open early and closes by mid-afternoon, making it a true breakfast and lunch destination rather than a brunch-only spot.
Lunch
Burgoo Bistro Lonsdale
3 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver
One of the true beacons of comfort food in the area, Burgoo is famous for its hearty and familiar fare. Made-from-scratch soups and stews, mac and cheese, and an excellent grilled cheese sandwich round out a menu of nostalgic favourites. The rustic and casual setting make it a great option for just about any type of scenario whether casual, professional, or just stopping by for a post-work pint.
Loam Bistro
230 Esplanade W, North Vancouver
Stylish and colourful, this little spot is full of charm. Offering seasonal West Coast cuisine with a creative twist, Loam’s lunch/brunch menu is filled with items that will keep you craving long after you leave. We suggest the prosciutto and hot honey sandwich, or the truffle omelette to start. Oh! And the strawberry and rhubarb butter toast!
Dinner
Jägerhof Restaurant
71 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver
A cozy Alpine-style eatery known for hearty German, Austrian, and Swiss cuisine. From schnitzel to rösti, the menu is rich with traditional flavors—and they often feature live music on weekends for a festive touch.
Fishworks
91 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver
A stylish seafood restaurant housed in a heritage building, Fishworks offers sustainable ocean fare paired with local and international wines. It’s a refined choice for a dinner date or a special occasion.
Desserts
Perfecto Cafe, Bakery & Gelato (Shipyards)
200 Esplanade W, North Vancouver
This waterfront gem has house-made gelato, pastries, and espresso drinks. Keep it in mind if you’re looking for a post-dinner stroll and scoop!
Stuffies Pastries Cafe
1571 Oxford St, North Vancouver
Known for its stuffed mini pancakes and mochi donuts, this playful café offers unique treats with fun fillings like custard, chocolate, and seasonal fruit. Great for grab-and-go or a cozy sit-down.
Feature photo credit: nuba.ca
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