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Alison Cairns has been working in writing and publishing for over a decade. A devoted Vancouverite, she loves exploring the hidden gems and new happenings — both cultural and culinary — in the city. She is also a lover of coffee, wine, craft beer and pretty much all food except sea urchin. She staves off the results of these loves by running the seawall, cycling the city and hiking the mountains.
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Unlike Halifax, Montreal or even Winnipeg, Vancouver isn’t necessarily known for its live music culture. That isn’t to say, though, that it doesn’t exist. And these venues are making it as accessible as possible with free live shows at least once a week served up with great food and drink. Play on.
Doughnuts are having a moment. No longer just the realm of truck drivers and cops, they’ve acquired the status and discernment we attribute to the cupcake or croissant. Vancouverites have become particular about their gourmet doughnuts and these bakeries are stepping up to the challenge.
Often taking a backseat to that other backyard barbeque favourite, the burger, hotdogs deserve a time to shine. All-meat sausages, flame grilled to perfection and nestled into the ideal bun are delicious unto themselves and excellent vehicles for innovative condiments and toppings. These joints are some of the most notable in the city.
Poutine may originate in Quebec, but there’s no denying it has found adoring fans in Vancouver. And while you can’t go wrong with fries, gravy and cheese, there are a few additions and techniques that make one dish stand out over another. Here are some of those standouts.
Every culture has their version of a dumpling: smooth, pillowy dough stuffed with regional ingredients that combine to make a package that equates to comfort for the nation’s people. Ukraine is no different — and pierogi have come to be a Canadian comfort food as well. They’re on cozy offer at the places below.
This classic French/Belgian bistro staple is the perfect meal when you’re looking for a small meal packed with flavour. Whether you’re digging in alone or planning to share with the table, these restaurants all serve up delectable, briny steamers and their sidekicks you’ll be slurping back in no time.
After all that early-morning exercise and fresh air, a decadent weekend brunch is exactly what’s called for. Whether you’re craving bennies and strong coffee in a casual setting or seasonal crepes with a cup of Earl Grey, these Vancouver spots have you waking up on the right side of the bed.
There’s nothing quite like the Ethiopian dining experience. Shared with friends and family and eaten with your hands, it’s a tactile and involved ritual and filled with comforting spices and teff-based injera bread. Vancouver has its fair share of authentic cafés serving this North African cuisine that’s filling, flavourful and very affordable.
With much of the year in Vancouver marked by grey skies and wet weather, summer is the city’s time to shine. Perfectly warm days and consistent sunshine make for excellent festival-going conditions. It’s no wonder so many have taken root over the decades, covering all manner of interests. Herewith, some of the best.
While both the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Museum of Anthropology are stunning art institutions, there exists as well an impressive array of independent commercial galleries, all free to enter and showcasing some of the best in contemporary work, from Vancouver and around the world. Get off the beaten track and indulge in some new art therapy.
Who isn’t always in the mood for simple, delicious, affordable food, served in a casual but elegant setting? Enter the bistro. The French may have mastered this perfect night out, but Vancouverites are happily carrying on the tradition, as is evident by the popularity of the bistros below.
Any Canadian city worth its (celery) salt needs to boast at least a few bars with killer Caesars. The official cocktail of Canada – while often shocking to visitors – is patriotism in a glass. These places crank up the heat with their original takes on the country’s favourite hangover cure. [Photo of Media courtesy of Barry Calhoun Photography]