Overview: Vancouver’s hot new dining scene
This year has brought a wave of vibrant new restaurants to Vancouver, spanning global cuisines, neighborhood concepts, and chef-driven showcases. Here are 39 notable openings that have earned diners’ interest and critics’ nods, highlighting how the city’s food scene continues to evolve with creativity, quality, and community in mind.
New and notable openings (in alphabetical order)
Aji Ramen & Izakaya
A modern take on Japanese comfort food, Aji Ramen & Izakaya blends rich tonkotsu bowls with shareable small plates, all in a cozy, bustling setting.
Birch & Barrel
A refined Canadian bistro with a playful wine program and seasonal menus that celebrate local growers and foragers.
Casa Sol Argentinian Grill
Grilled meats, vibrant chimichurri, and lively ambiance bring a slice of Buenos Aires to the West Coast.
Dragon Pearl
Pan-Asian flavors collide in a bright space offering creative dim sum, wok dishes, and bold cocktails.
East Market Street Kitchen
Market-to-table restaurant with a focus on edible flowers, microgreens, and a rotating chef’s tasting menu.
Flamingo Cantina
Colorful, lively Mexican dining with artisanal tacos, house-made salsas, and approachable cocktails.
Golden Lantern Dumpling House
Dedicated to handmade dumplings with a modern twist and a compact, efficient dining room.
Hearth & North
Wood-fired and hearth-cooked fare featuring seasonal vegetables, meats, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Ikigai Noodle Bar
Japanese-inspired noodle bowls with a focus on umami-rich broths and inventive toppings.
Juno Social House
Chic casual with a strong cocktails program and a menu designed for sharing among friends.
Kinslayer Kitchen
Bold, boundary-pushing dishes from a chef-driven menu that emphasizes technique and storytelling.
Lava & Leaf
Seafood-forward restaurant that highlights ocean-to-table ingredients with volcanic heat cooking styles.
Maple & Moss
Plant-forward dining that blends Canadian ingredients with world-inspired techniques for thoughtful plates.
Nectar Lounge + Eatery
A bright, convivial space offering bright Californian-inspired plates and a focused beverage program.
Oak & Ember
Smoked and grilled flavors with a modern Scandinavian influence, served in a sleek, intimate room.
Palm Court Thai
Bright, aromatic Thai cuisine with bold curries, fragrant herbs, and a relaxed dining vibe.
Quay 2.0
Rooftop-friendly seafood and contemporary fare with waterfront views and a laid-back attitude.
Raven & Rye
Modern brasserie feel with a strong coffee program by day and lively cocktail nights by dusk.
Saffron Alley
Indian street-food-inspired dishes elevated with thoughtful plating and a curated spice cabinet.
Sea & Cedar
Coastal-inspired dining with seasonal tasting menus and a focus on sustainable seafood sources.
Silk and Stone
Elegant pan-Asian cuisine featuring delicate noodles, dumplings, and seafood with a modern twist.
Skyline Kitchen
High-rise dining with panoramic views, inventive plates, and a bold beverage program.
Spice Route Vancouver
South Asian flavors reimagined with contemporary techniques and vibrant spice blends.
Stone & Sage
Herb-forward plates that celebrate the terroir of British Columbia with sleek, minimalist presentation.
Sunset Slice Pizzeria
Neapolitan-style pies with blistered crusts and inventive toppings in a casual, family-friendly space.
Tableau Coffee & Kitchen
A daytime-to-night concept pairing specialty coffee with globally inspired small plates.
Tide & Timber
Coastal comfort with wood-fired techniques, seasonal seafood, and informal seating.
Umami Lab
Flavor-focused tasting menus and a la carte options built around umami-rich ingredients.
Venture Street Eatery
Casual, ingredient-forward dining rooted in casual street-food sensibilities from around the world.
Viola & Co.
Bright, vegetable-forward bistro with a daily-changing menu and a strong emphasis on local farmers.
Waveside Grill
Casual coastal grill offering grilled seafood, seasonal sides, and relaxed waterfront dining.
Willow & Bramble
Neighborhood spot with a bright, garden-inspired menu and a welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
Yuzu House
Modern Japanese cuisine with yuzu-inspired brightness, precise sushi, and contemporary plates.
Zen Garden Table
A serene setting for thoughtful, herb-forward plates and a meditative dining pace.
Zest & Ember
Seasonal tasting menu focusing on flame-kissed vegetables and wood-fired proteins with bold aromatics.
What makes these openings stand out
From global flavors to locally sourced ingredients, these venues illustrate Vancouver’s appetite for quality, hospitality, and innovation. Whether you crave ramen, pasta, seafood, or plant-forward plates, this year’s openings offer approachable experiences and memorable meals for all budgets. As neighborhoods grow and diversify, these restaurants also strengthen community ties by supporting local producers and inviting guests to explore new cuisines in a welcoming setting.
Tips for visiting
- Make reservations where possible, especially for weekend dinners.
- Check kitchen hours and tasting menu availability online.
- Explore neighborhoods one by one to discover hidden gems beyond the main hubs.
Conclusion
Vancouver’s restaurant scene remains dynamic and welcoming, with 39 notable openings fueling a year of remarkable dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these new spots offer fresh flavors, inventive techniques, and a chance to connect with the city’s diverse culinary community.
