DineSpin

Best What's Hot in Vancouver

Find the best what's hot restaurants in Vancouver, BC. Scored on what actually matters.

By DineSpin Team·Updated February 2026·10 spots

Vancouver's food scene right now is split between obsessive owners who've been quietly perfecting one thing for decades and newer spots that are cracking the code on experience-plus-food fusion. What's hot here isn't flashy—it's places where the owner is still in the kitchen, or still reading every review and actually giving a damn. Here are ten restaurants that have earned their moment.

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Best What's Hot in Vancouver

1.

Don at Kitsilano

92/100

Six tables, handcrafted epoxy tables with dried flowers embedded in them, and Asian fusion dishes composed like they're meant to sit on Instagram—but the real story is the warmth. They hand-write cards for special occasions and remember what you're celebrating. The kitchen is creative but small; portions reflect premium pricing more than generosity, and occasional seasoning swings suggest the chef is still hunting consistency.

Pro tip: Go for anniversaries or celebrations where the personal details matter more than portion size. Avoid walk-ins entirely—the six-seat capacity fills instantly, and the open kitchen design means your clothes will smell like the space for hours after.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its creativity, exquisite flavors, and beautiful presentation, with many dishes highlighted as excellent.

Every dish is thoughtful, beautifully plated, and full of flavour.

👋Service93

Service is frequently described as warm, friendly, attentive, and professional, with staff often going above and beyond for guests.

Service was very friendly, staff is quite efficient

Vibe98

The restaurant's atmosphere is overwhelmingly lauded for its beauty, coziness, and unique, artistic decor, creating a memorable and intimate dining experience.

Atmosphere was great

💰Value75

While most diners find the experience worthwhile, a few note that portions can be small for the price, and some items like bread are considered expensive.

Portions are on the smaller side

📍 2186 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 4S2, Canada
4.6$$$VancouverMixed/Fusion
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsDiners seeking creative and artistic cuisineIntimate date nights
2.

Eivan Restaurant and Bar

95/100

The ghormeh sabzi and eggplant stew here are made from scratch with the kind of care that reads immediately—they taste like someone's grandmother is still in the kitchen. The vibe is elegant without the pretension, and the service feels genuinely warm rather than performed. Portions are debated (some diners find them modest), but the quality and presentation justify the ask if you're there for the food and not the deal.

Pro tip: Order the stews and let them guide the night—they're the technical showcase. Avoid peak weekend hours if small portions concern you; seated tables move slowly enough that consistency in execution becomes visible.

🍽️Food98

The food is well-regarded for its authentic Persian flavors, fresh ingredients, and excellent taste, with many dishes highlighted as outstanding.

Amazing food and atmosphere

👋Service96

Service is frequently described as friendly, attentive, professional, and welcoming, contributing significantly to the positive dining experience.

Great food, great service

Vibe95

The atmosphere is consistently lauded as warm, cozy, stylish, and relaxing, creating a pleasant and inviting ambiance.

Nice modern vibe

💰Value85

Portions are generally considered generous and the pricing fair, offering good value for the quality of food and experience.

Portions were generous

📍 1615 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7M 2J5, Canada
4.9$$North VancouverPersian
Ideal for
Authentic Persian food enthusiastsCasual and special occasion diningDiners seeking a warm and inviting atmosphere
3.

COFU Chinatown

92/100

COFU Chinatown offers an excellent plant-based Japanese dining experience, lauded for its creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented cuisine. The serene atmosphere and attentive service contribute to a memorable occasion, making it a standout destination for both vegans and non-vegans.

Pro tip: Amazing night at COFU Chinatown in Vancouver. The food was not only flavourful, it was a great experience.

🍽️Food95

The plant-based Japanese cuisine is well-regarded for its creativity, fresh ingredients, and outstanding flavor profiles, often exceeding expectations even for non-vegans.

Flavourful, it was a great experience

👋Service90

Service is generally described as attentive, warm, friendly, and knowledgeable, with staff often making first-rate recommendations and contributing to a special dining experience.

Staff were very attentive

Vibe95

The restaurant's Japandi-inspired minimalist design, warm atmosphere, and beautiful interior create a serene, luxurious, and special ambiance.

Beautiful interior

💰Value85

While some reviews hint at high-end pricing, the overall reception suggests that the quality, creativity, and experience justify the cost.

Surprisingly reasonable price

📍 488 Gore Ave, Vancouver, BC V6A 2Z6, Canada
4.8$$$VancouverJapanese
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsVegans and vegetarians seeking elevated diningDiners looking for a unique culinary experience
4.

Botanist

92/100

Botanist offers an excellent dining experience in Vancouver, celebrated for its artistic and delicious food, impeccable service, and stunning ambiance. It is particularly recommended for special occasions and tasting menus, though it comes at a higher price point.

Pro tip: Outstanding food, service, and ambiance make for an unforgettable dining experience.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its first-rate quality, creative presentation, and delicious, unique flavors, with many dishes described as works of art. The tasting menu is a particular highlight.

Food was AMAZING and reasonably priced

👋Service96

Service is frequently described as top-notch, attentive, friendly, knowledgeable, and professional, with staff often going above and beyond to make occasions special.

Service was beyond amazing.

Vibe95

The restaurant's ambiance is consistently lauded as beautiful, elegant, and sophisticated, with lush greenery and a refined atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

The ambiance is stunning

💰Value75

While generally considered expensive, many diners feel the quality of food, service, and overall experience justifies the cost, though a few found portions small for the price.

Quite expensive, but definitely worth it.

📍 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9, Canada
4.6$$$$VancouverMixed/Fusion
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsTasting menu enthusiastsThose seeking an elegant atmosphere
5.

Saan Saan Cafe and Restaurant

92/100

This gluten-free Hong Kong cafe in Chinatown is run by three siblings who've somehow cracked the code on pastries that rival non-GF counterparts—which sounds simple until you've had most gluten-free baked goods. The space is a transported HK nostalgia moment, everything is made fresh daily in-house, and the staff treats you like family. The neighborhood has visible challenges, but diners see this as part of the authentic revitalization effort.

Pro tip: It's Friday through Sunday only, and popular items sell out. Get there early if you want the full pastry selection. The curry fish balls at $16 are dividing—order strategically based on your portion-price tolerance.

🍽️Food95

The Hong Kong-inspired menu, particularly the baked goods and pastries, is well-regarded for its deliciousness and authentic flavors, with many noting it's hard to believe they are gluten-free.

The cookies were unreal

👋Service95

Staff and owners are frequently described as remarkably friendly, attentive, and welcoming, contributing significantly to a positive dining experience.

Cosmo’s so attentive!

Vibe95

The cafe's atmosphere is a major highlight, with diners frequently celebrating its beautiful, cozy, warm, and nostalgic Hong Kong-inspired decor.

Modern blends perfectly with iconic Chinese decor

💰Value85

While prices are not explicitly detailed, the quality and taste of the food, especially given the gluten-free nature, suggest good value for money.

Reasonable prices

📍 227 Main St, Vancouver, BC V6A 2S7, Canada
4.8$$VancouverChinese
Ideal for
Gluten-free diners seeking authentic HK treatsThose looking for a cozy, aesthetically pleasing cafeVisitors wanting a taste of nostalgic Hong Kong flavors
6.

Afghan Horsemen Restaurant

92/100

This is a decades-old institution that earned its reputation through consistency and genuine hospitality—the lamb is tender enough to question why other restaurants bother with tough cuts, and the service (especially server Farhad) treats allergy questions like they matter. The floor seating and live belly dancing transform dinner into an event. Arrive knowing this isn't a casual meal; it's a cultural experience that works because the owners have refined it over forty years.

Pro tip: Reserve ahead and arrive ready for floor seating—mobility challenges make this difficult, but everyone else should embrace the full experience. Peak times fill quickly, and the parking isn't clearly marked from the street.

🍽️Food95

The food is well-regarded for its authentic flavors, perfectly cooked meats, and fresh ingredients, with many dishes highlighted as excellent.

Food is absolutely perfect

👋Service98

Service is overwhelmingly described as outstanding, friendly, attentive, and professional, with specific recognition for servers like Farhad.

Service was great as well

Vibe95

The atmosphere is consistently lauded as unique, traditional, cozy, and enchanting, with special mention of the floor seating areas.

Incredible experience

💰Value85

While some find prices on the higher side, most diners feel the generous portions and overall experience offer good value.

Great value for your money

📍 1833 Anderson St #202, Vancouver, BC V6H 4E5, Canada
4.5$$$VancouverAfghan
Ideal for
Experiential diningGroups and celebrationsThose seeking authentic Afghan cuisine
7.

Sula Indian Restaurant, Commercial Drive

92/100

Sula Indian Restaurant is a well-regarded establishment on Commercial Drive, celebrated for its excellent Indian cuisine, warm and inviting ambiance, and outstanding service. It is well-regarded for its flavorful dishes, beautiful decor, and attentive staff, making it a top choice for both casual and special occasions.

Pro tip: Outstanding food, service, and ambiance make this a highly recommended Indian dining experience.

🍽️Food90

The food is well-regarded for its vibrant, authentic flavors, balanced spices, and beautiful presentation, with many dishes highlighted as first-rate.

Flavours were vibrant and authentic

👋Service95

Service is frequently described as top-notch, with staff being attentive, friendly, knowledgeable, and going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and special.

Incredibly attentive, friendly, and made us feel welcome

Vibe95

The restaurant's ambiance is consistently lauded as beautiful, cozy, warm, modern, and well-decorated, often enhanced by elements like indoor gardens and water features.

Cozy, warm, and modern atmosphere

💰Value85

While generally considered good value, mentioned it being overpriced for the taste, but this is an isolated comment.

Great prices, great service.

📍 1128 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3X2, Canada
4.4$$VancouverIndian
Ideal for
Special occasions and celebrationsDiners seeking authentic Indian flavorsThose who appreciate a beautiful ambiance
8.

Beach Ave Bar and Grill

88/100

Beach Ave Bar and Grill is a highly-regarded waterfront establishment in Vancouver, celebrated for its stunning views, lively atmosphere, and generally delicious food, particularly its calamari and burgers. While service is well-regarded, occasional instances of rudeness and slow service detract from the experience.

Pro tip: Amazing little waterside restaurant! My friend and I were served by Dane and Ri-Anne, they were both polite + friendly

🍽️Food85

The food is generally well-regarded, with many dishes receiving celebrate, particularly the calamari, fried chicken sandwich, and burgers. Some dishes, however, have been described as mediocre or overly salty.

Super tasty food. One of the best calamari.

👋Service75

Service is frequently described as friendly and excellent, though there are notable instances of rudeness, indifference, and slow service.

Outstanding service I received from Olivia

Vibe95

The atmosphere is well-regarded, with a strong emphasis on the beautiful waterfront location, patio, and lively yet relaxed ambiance.

I love the atmosphere. Super tasty food.

💰Value70

While many find the value good, especially considering the location and view, some diners noted small portion sizes for the price and expensive drinks.

$13 for the very small portion fried cheese curds is a joke.

📍 1012 Beach Ave #1, Vancouver, BC V6E 1T7, Canada
4.5$$VancouverAmerican
Ideal for
Enjoying waterfront views and ambianceCasual dining with popular appetizersHappy hour gatherings
9.

Parker Rooftop

88/100

Parker Rooftop is a highly-regarded Vancouver establishment known for its stunning views, chic ambiance, and creative cocktails. While food quality and atmosphere are well-regarded, occasional service inconsistencies and a pattern of defensive management responses temper an otherwise excellent experience.

Pro tip: Incredible views, delicious cocktails, and a chic atmosphere make this a favorite spot.

🍽️Food85

The food is generally well-received, with many diners celebrating its freshness, flavor, and presentation. Specific dishes like truffle fries and mushroom arancini are frequently highlighted.

The food was incredibly fresh

👋Service75

Service is predominantly described as friendly, attentive, and outstanding, with several staff members well-regarded. However, a few instances of slow or rude service, and a non-apologetic owner response, detract from an otherwise positive picture.

Service was also very friendly

Vibe95

The atmosphere is well-regarded as chic, cozy, and upscale, with stunning views and a lively ambiance, making it a popular choice for various occasions.

Absolute go-to bar/lounge

💰Value80

Diners generally find the value to be good, especially for happy hour specials and set menus, though some note it can be a bit pricey.

Happy hour specials were reasonable

📍 1379 Howe St 9th floor, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1R7, Canada
4.2$$$VancouverAmerican
Ideal for
Cocktail enthusiastsSpecial occasions and celebrationsDiners seeking a vibrant atmosphere
10.

Nomo Nomo

88/100

Nomo is a highly-regarded Japanese izakaya-style bar and restaurant in Vancouver, celebrated for its creative cocktails, delicious fusion food, and intimate, stylish atmosphere. While generally offering an excellent dining experience with attentive service, some guests have noted small portion sizes and occasional issues with noise and time limits on tables.

Pro tip: Amazing place, I will recommend to all my friends and family!

🍽️Food90

The food is well-regarded for its creativity, fresh ingredients, and delicious, well-presented dishes, with many items being standout favorites.

Scallop crudo so fresh

👋Service88

Service is frequently described as warm, attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, with staff often going above and beyond to enhance the dining experience.

Warm, attentive service made

Vibe95

The restaurant is consistently lauded for its intimate, cozy, stylish, and welcoming atmosphere, often described as having a unique Japanese izakaya vibe.

Such a vibe. Perfect spot

💰Value70

While the food and drinks are generally well-received, some diners note that portions can be small and the pricing is a bit high for the quantity.

A bit pricey for the portion

📍 1268 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3X2, Canada
4.7$$$VancouverJapanese
Ideal for
Date nights — intimate and lively atmosphereCocktail enthusiasts — creative and expertly crafted drinksSharing small plates — diverse and flavorful menu

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