The one thing that’s guaranteed to make your meal taste better (other than salt), is sharing it with the people you enjoy spending time with. Whether you’re hitting the bar for appies and drinks after a long day with your work crew or you’re rounding up your buds for a banquet-style dinner and catch-up session, it’s always better with friends.
The only catch? You’ll need to find a location everyone likes that’s not only easy to get to, but has a table big enough for 6 people (or more). Make sure no one gets left behind, and plan your next group dining event using the Dine the Line It’s Better With Friends Itinerary.
Ride through Surrey, Burnaby and New Westminster and find your new favourite meet-up spot. Each location is easily accessible on foot from a SkyTrain station or Bus stop and welcomes large parties for all kinds of occasions.
By Marisa Chandler
Surrey
Spice 72
Catch the 319 bus from Scott Road Station to Scottsdale Exchange and you’re a five minute walk from Spice 72. Offering up bright and delicious Indian cuisine, including Mumbai street food and specialties from Goa, Gujarat and Punjab, there’s a wealth of of options for every member in your party. Their patio seats up to 60 people and for special occasions, they offer Patio and Private Room rentals.
12025 72 Ave
Kerala Kitchen
Kerala Kitchen serves South Indian style cuisine in a casual and chic dining room. Biryanis, curries and dosas are their speciality, and these spices are so good you’ll want to share! Hop off the 319 Bus at NB Scott Road at 93A Ave.
9386 120 St
Ustaad G76
If you’re looking for an atmosphere that’s laid back, fun and festive with a menu that’s flavourful, Ustaad G76 is a must-try. Ride the Expo Line to King George Station (or catch the R1 RapidBus from Newton Exchange) and it’s 4 minutes on foot to the best Amritsari Kulcha in the area- for the uninitiated, imagine a roti filled with a spiced mixture of potatoes, cauliflower, or paneer, and special masalas, cooked in a tandoor, and served with a generous helping of butter or ghee.
10009 Whalley Blvd
Fresgo Inn Restaurant
Proudly serving the Surrey Central area for over 35 years, Fresgo Inn is an old-fashioned cafeteria & bakery that will make you feel like you’ve traveled back to a time. Known for big portions and friendly service, their menu features pub classics like burgers and fries and fish and chips. Under a 10 minute walk from Surrey Central Station.
10102 King George Blvd
New Westminster
Stefanos Restaurant
Stefanos lives up to its promise that you’ll always feel welcome. A family-run restaurant serving authentic Greek cuisine and good times, this New Westminster gem is known for its lively atmosphere day and night, great food and family style dining. Stop in with friends for lunch, happy hour, or live entertainment and dinner. Two minutes from Columbia Station on foot.
315 Columbia St
HOPS, A Northwest Pub
Gather your crew for some local brews! HOPS in downtown New Westminster celebrates the craft beer cultural phenomenon, specializing in Pacific Northwest Microbrews in a warm, casual environment–perfect for sampling suds with friends. In addition to the impressive selection of local beers, their menu features wine, cocktails and classic pub fare. Ride the Expo Line to New Westminster Station and you’re two minutes away.
48 Eighth St
Old Spaghetti Factory
About two minutes on foot from New Westminster Station you’ll find a restaurant for big groups with big appetites- it’s guaranteed you won’t leave hungry! Old Spaghetti Factory in New Westminster is an Italian-American staple restaurant dishing up enormous plates of pasta. Gluten-free options and affordable group packages make this option easy on your stomach and wallet.
50 Eighth St
The Boathouse
Steak, seafood and great views are what make The Boathouse a top choice for a casual but elegant West Coast dining experience. Located along New West Quay, just over a five minute walk from New Westminster Station, their spacious but cozy dining room accommodates large parties easily. Grab a seat on the patio and check out the river boats while enjoying freshly shucked oysters.
900 Quayside Dr
Burnaby
Tenen Eastern European Cuisine
Cabbage rolls, meze and schnitzel are just a few of the Eastern European specialties you’ll find on the menu at Tenen in Burnaby. Serving traditional cuisine from the Balkan region, Tenen’s cozy casual indoor setting and hidden back patio make a great choice when getting your friends together to chow down in any season. Take the Expo Line to Royal Oak Station and it’s a five minute walk.
7569 Royal Oak Ave
On a different track
If you’re looking for a meet-up spot in Metro Vancouver outside of Burnaby, Surrey or New Westminster, here are a couple of suggestions.
Richmond
Sura Korean BBQ Restaurant
Round up your crew and hop on the Canada Line for Korean BBQ. Known for their big tables and great authentic flavours, Sura is conveniently located in Aberdeen Centre. Take the Canada Line to Aberdeen Station and you’re there!
4151 Hazelbridge Way, Aberdeen Centre
Vancouver
Rogue Kitchen + Wetbar
A warm, friendly multi-level bar with ample indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for casual snack or drinks. Located inside Waterfront Station, you can step off the Expo Line or SeaBus at Waterfront and cross the station to the entrance (or walk a couple of minutes from the Canada Line Waterfront Station.)
601 West Cordova Street
There are many ways to get to each of these spots in Metro Vancouver by transit. Visit TransLink’s Trip Planner to find your way.
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