Local Specialties: Fresh Pacific salmon prepared multiple ways (grilled, smoked), Dungeness crab, halibut, and wild seafood are specialties. BC oysters are exceptional quality. Indigenous-inspired cuisine featuring foraged ingredients is increasingly popular.
Must-Try Dishes: Fish and chips (Vancouver style), Bao sandwiches from Asian markets, dim sum in Chinatown, sushi and Japanese cuisine reflecting Vancouver's Asian influence, poutine (Canadian fries with gravy and cheese curds), butter chicken and Indian cuisine from the diverse community.
Dining Experience Tips: Tipping 15-20% is standard at restaurants. Gratuity is not typically included in the bill. Many excellent restaurants don't take reservations, so arrive early or expect to wait. Street food markets and casual eateries offer great value.
Dining Neighborhoods: Gastown and downtown feature upscale restaurants; Chinatown offers authentic and affordable Asian dining; Kitsilano has trendy cafes and restaurants; East Vancouver features hip food scene and multicultural options; Granville Island Public Market has diverse food stalls and fresh options.
Dietary Options: Vancouver is very accommodating to vegetarian, vegan, and dietary restriction requirements. Most restaurants clearly label menu items or readily modify dishes.