Whether you prefer crisp romaine or nutrient-dense kale, fresh anchovies or crunchy bacon bits, there’s no denying that Caesar salads are a beloved standby on many a restaurant menu. But despite their ubiquitous nature, not every garlicky green bowl is created equal. When it comes to delivering fresh, creative and great-tasting Caesar salads, these Vancouver restaurants reign supreme. [Photo credit: iStock.com/PoppyB]
An iconic Canadian steakhouse that’s stood the test of time over six decades, Hy’s delivers elegance in spades with its refined, clubhouse atmosphere, professional service and superb steaks. There’s no better way to start your meal than with a tableside Caesar; the infamous salad is prepared in the dining room for added theatrics. Pepper, garlic, anchovy paste, Dijon, Worcestershire, and Hy’s secret seasoning are combined in a solid wooden bowl with red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and an egg yolk, which emulsifies the dressing to give it a nice, creamy texture before its tossed with fresh romaine, croutons and parmesan.
Heirloom’s vegan kale Caesar salad might not have the requisite cheesy Parmesan and bacon that classic Caesar fans crave, but we promise this animal-free variation just might become a new favourite. On offer at brunch and dinner in small and large sizes, the signature salad features a mix of dark kale and romaine leaves, house-made cornbread croutons and crispy capers, sprinkled with non-dairy cashew parmesan and crispy beet chips and dressed in a light Caesar dressing that offers plenty of lemony, tangy flavour without tasting overly creamy.
Grab-and-go gourmet greens have made this downtown salad bar a lunch hour hotspot among nearby office workers. There’s no DIY-ing here though, the curated menu features eight signature salads bursting with wholesome ingredients (think purple barley, braised organic beef and brightly coloured heirloom beets). The black Kale Caesar is a customer favourite, and it’s easy to see why. A base of organic black kale leaves and warm grilled romaine is bedecked with Grana Padano, flavourful smoked paprika croutons, crispy hazelnuts and moist Applewood smoked chicken thigh. Extra hungry? Add a ramen egg on top for an extra $2.