Where To Eat in Vancouver by Food Reporter Erin Ireland
Erin Ireland is the creator of To Die For, a site that connects Vancouverites with the most delicious and ethically-sourced food in the city. Her main interest is not only to find food that tastes good, but that is also ethically-sourced, i.e. how and where the ingredients were grown before they ended up on your plate. She’s also a food reporter for 102.7 The Peak Radio, CTV Morning Live, and BC Living Magazine.
We interviewed Erin in collaboration with VancityBuzz on where to eat in Vancouver and this is a summary of what we found out. To read the full interview, go here.
This is the list of Erin’s choices. All links and directions are included in the map.
Where to Eat in Vancouver: Erin Ireland
By Hayo Magazine
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The Oakwood Canadian Bistro
By Hayo Magazine
This restaurant displays local artwork on its walls and its sources are listed on the menu. Warm Kale Salad, the All-Canadian Poutine and Mussels are just a few of the “Canadian” dishes you should try
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Roundel Cafe
By Hayo Magazine
For brunch. I’m shocked by the fact they don’t have a line-up out their door like their hugely successful neighbor.
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Truck: Vij's Railway
By Hayo Magazine
You can enjoy what’s often considered Canada’s best Indian fusion for street food prices. Check location before going.
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Truck: Culver City Salad
By Hayo Magazine
The perfect healthy option when you’re needing a big, energy-packed meal. Christina Culver’s tahini-based dressings are oil-free and so delicious, they’re drinkable. Check location before going.
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Octopus Garden
By Hayo Magazine
Diners enjoy privacy thanks to linen curtains and near-perfectly executed dishes. Sashimi is sliced properly, rice is seasoned to perfection and fish is always served at the proper temperature.
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Hawksworth
By Hayo Magazine
For a fancy, fine dining-style dinner. I truly believe this is one of Canada’s best dining experiences.
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Tacofino Taco Bar
By Hayo Magazine
In Gastown for mind-blowing tacos and a fun, casual night out.
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Burdock & Co.
By Hayo Magazine
Always a hit. Every element of their menu is a ten out of ten, from their craft cocktails to their organic natural wine list to Chef Andrea Carlson’s skillful cooking.
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Beaucoup Bakery
By Hayo Magazine
A trip to Paris left me believing that we truly have the best croissant in the world right here in Vancouver.
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Rain or Shine
By Hayo Magazine
One of my favourite ice cream shops
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House of Dosas
By Hayo Magazine
Their dosas are as big as baseball bats and as plentiful in flavour as they are in portion. The eggplant curry is another must-try.
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Propaganda Coffee
By Hayo Magazine
I love seeing more and more quality, independently-owned cafes popping up around town. It must mean we’re in the midst of a coffee shop revolution. Customers recognize the benefits of supporting local
What would you say is Vancouver’s signature dish?
The Kale Caesar salad. Or, if kale is really “last year’s ingredient”, how about deep fried cauliflower or brussel sprouts? I think we’ll continue to see these types of dishes appearing on local menus.
Which place, in your opinion, offers a real Vancouverite experience?
- The Oakwood Canadian Bistro. Not just for its name. This cozy restaurant displays local artwork on its walls and its local ingredient sources are listed on the menu. Warm Kale Salad, the All-Canadian Poutine and Mussels are just a few of the “Canadian” dishes you should try.
Which are the places that are innovating Vancouver’s culinary landscape?
- Burdock and Co. Chef Andrea Carlson is committed to organic, local sourcing. With her focus on sustainability, she’s setting an example for young and old chefs alike.
- The Acorn Restaurant is another innovator in the industry. They prove that vegetarian and vegan food can create line-ups. Every city in the world needs more restaurants with a plant-based focus.
What are your favourite hidden gems?
- Roundel Cafe for brunch. I’m shocked by the fact they don’t have a line-up out their door like their hugely successful neighbour The Red Wagon. Their dishes are filling, delicious and lovingly made with ethically grown ingredients. Try the unique but fabulous omelette with walnuts, blue cheese and carrots.
Favorite bakeries and dessert spots?
- Beaucoup Bakery. A trip to Paris left me believing that we truly have the best croissant in the world right here in Vancouver.
- Mosquito in Gastown is a new dessert and champagne lounge that I’m excited to check out. We haven’t seen this concept in several years and with a room so beautiful (designed by Craig Stanghetta) I have high hopes the desserts will be up to the same standards.
Thank you Erin for the interview! And to our readers, if you have other local’s favorites in Vancouver you’d like to share, let us know in the comments. We hope this guide helps you enjoy the amazing gastronomic scene of Vancouver.
