International Women’s Day is just around the corner, and we’re celebrating some of our region’s incredible chefs and restaurateurs with a guide to fabulous female-led businesses you’re going to want to check out!
By Avneet Takhar
Vancouver
Pampanga Cuisine
Edith Malang, who fed frontline nurses during the throes of COVID-19 with her comforting Filipino food, has seen her business grow to two Vancouver locations due to its popularity!
From breakfast plates such as Longsilog (rice and Filipino style sausage) all the way through to Combo Meals (any dish, with rice and soup) and meat dishes consisting of favourites such as Crispy Sisig (chunks of pork, chillies and ginger), Malang makes sure you’re well taken care of.
Get there by transit: The R4 or number 8 buses will take you to the Fraser location and Joyce station is a 1 minute walk from the other site.
Burdock & Co
This Main Street favourite is run by Andrea Carlson, the first woman in Canada to be awarded a Michelin Star. From posh bites like Acadian Caviar and a set menu that changes with season but always stars local ingredients, it’s a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Get there by transit: The number 3 bus will take you right outside, or it’s a 10-12 minute walk from Olympic Village Canada Line station.
Langley City
Food by Fanta
Food by Fanta is a consistent Dine Out favourite. And it’s no wonder since behind it all is Parinya (Fanta) Loptson who curates a beautiful Thai menu that is just as delectable as it looks. A cultural array of dishes, like Sous Vide Thai Khao Soi Steak (triple AAA steak with egg noodles and spicy khao gravy) and traditional flower dumplings, pays homage to Lopston’s roots and has won her many awards..
Get there by transit: From Surrey Central station get the 502 or 503 buses.
Langley
Sabà Bistro
This Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean eatery is headed by Simone Hurwitz and her family (including three daughters!). Having lived and cooked all over the world, Hurwitz has crafted wonderfully eclectic menus at both Sabà’s cafe and bistro. Always flavourful and nourishing items like the Hummus Bowl and Lamb Shank which is cooked in Moroccan spices.
Get there by transit: Use Surrey Central station then hop on the 501 and 562 buses.
Richmond
Yuu Japanese Tapas
Established in 2010 by Julia Kubotani, this family-run restaurant knows how to combine fun flavours in its food. Their Beer Ramen (cold ramen in bonito broth) is served in an epic mega pint glass and there’s also Volcano Ramen and Deep Fried Tentacles to enjoy!
Get there by transit: a 7-minute walk from Aberdeen Canada line station.
Little Karp
This seafood-orientated restaurant headed by Fan Fan Cheng and her husband, former hospitality workers from Hong Kong, is all about the locals. They buy their fish from Steveston Wharf and ensure their produce is grown in BC. Their elevated plates include Mussels and Truffle Frites, the Premium Seafood Tower and Lobster Poutine.
Get there by transit: Roughly a 15 minute walk from Lansdowne Canada line station.
Burnaby
Grand Crystal Seafood Restaurant
Lily Yung is the owner of this Cantonese-style restaurant that serves all-day Dim Sum. The varied menu has many offerings, including Roasted Whole Suckling Pig, Fish Maw Soup and many types of crab and sea bass. The generously- sized hall means the whole family can have a seat at the table here!
Get there by transit: A 7-minute walk from Metrotown skytrain station.
Coquitlam
Jamila’s Kitchen & Grill
Jamila Malkzada and her husband Malik are former refugees from Afghanistan and have worked hard to create their community-driven restaurant. They take a heartwarming approach to dining: they do not turn away those who are facing financial hardship and are loved for their large portions of Afghan-Indian fusion eats. There’s meat kabobs, Afghan dumplings and pakoras for all!
Get there by transit: An 18-minute walk from Coquitlam Central station or hop onto the 185 bus.
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