Alison Cairns

The neighbourhood around the Canucks’ home base, Roger’s Arena, has always been kind of a no-man’s-land — its nickname “Crosstown” fits it well. But luckily, of late, there has been no shortage of great pre-game hangouts to grab a pint and an early dinner before the puck drops. Here are some great local options.

To list every remarkable sushi restaurant in Vancouver would be a feat that would seem daunting even to a fearless samurai. And while food-court and grocery-store sushi suggest this is now a commonplace cuisine, these renowned restaurants are a cut above. Below, a small bento box of offerings. [Photo courtesy of Miku]

Typically served as a street-food dish in Thailand, Pad Thai has earned top comfort food marks in this Canadian city. Whether served in the atmosphere of a traditional Thai restaurant or as part of a fancy night out, these places are serving Thailand’s favourite noodle dish authentically and deliciously.

Aside from the late-night falafel stand or donair shop, sit-down Lebanese restaurants are hard to come by in Vancouver. We scoured the streets, though, and came up with a few excellent options. Settle in and enjoy dish after dish of traditional Lebanese meze as well as platters of meat and vegetarian fare. [Image courtesy of Jamjar]

Often playing second fiddle to the more popular chocolate croissant or even the humble doughnut, éclairs are not to be overlooked. The classic French pastry is having a bit of a renaissance in Vancouver and these bakeries are offering some stellar selections. [Photo credit: iStock.com/edenexposed]

There’s something decadent and mysterious about patronizing the hotel bar. To feel at once glamorous and anonymous, you don’t have to be traveling to enjoy the experience. Head into any one of these classy joints for a drink and a snack. And psst: the bathrooms are always gorgeous!

The locavore movement burst onto the scene in the mid-2000s and was quickly followed by an increased interest in knowing where our food is coming from. It’s a food philosophy bandied about by many, but only truly practiced by a few. Here are some local standouts. [Photo courtesy of Edible Canada]

When a major deal is on the table, hashing out the details in a stuffy boardroom can feel stilted and unfriendly. And million-dollar decisions like these shouldn't be made on an empty stomach. Why not treat yourself and your client or business associate to an exquisite lunch or dinner at one of downtown Vancouver’s premier restaurants? The food and drink will make shaking on it all the more satisfying. [Image courtesy of Miku]

There’s nothing quite like a glass of champagne — or Prosecco or Cava or brut — to make any small occasion extraordinary. The dainty flute, the effervescence, the sweet, chalky mineral taste instantly evoke celebration. Toast your next occasion with a glass at any one of these classy places.

Looking to host a casual birthday? Does your ultimate Frisbee team need some post-game fuel? Family reunion? Instead of booking private rooms at some of the city’s fancier restaurants, why not be part of the atmosphere at any one of these places that are happy to accommodate large crowds. [Image courtesy of The Union]

When are you not in the mood for pizza? Luckily, south Main Street and the surrounding area is chock full of excellent choices when it comes to satisfying that ever-present pizza craving. From higher-end dining, to grab-and-go slices, here’s a list of six excellent options in this hip Vancouver 'hood. [Pizzeria Farina photo credit: Tracey Ayton]

The breakfast sandwich may be the perfect concoction for your first meal of the day. Complete with all the major food groups in one handy package, it’s tasty, satisfying and convenient. And we’re not talking Egg McMuffins here. Step up your breakfast game with any one of these great sammies.