Foodie Getaways from Vancouver: 360-Degree Discovery of New Summer Flavours

Fancy yourself an adventurer? A lover of the unusual and little known? Dig in at these delicious spots

Shake off the last few months at home and discover new foodie locales. As we slowly follow B.C.’s Restart plan, it is time to think about adventuring to some delectable culinary getaways—all in a safe and responsible way. Check out these easy-to-get-to destinations around the province where the local flavour is calling and worth staying a few days to explore…

Credit: Townsite Brewing | Destination BC/Local Wanderer

West: Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is known for its cozy communities and postcard views, not to mention it is a fishing, paddling, and hiking dream spot. For the laidback traveller, shop local artisans and fresh baked goods before stopping for a frosty beer at one of several pub-style brew houses. Local growers and creators abound in these communities, infusing every bite with lots of heart and passion for producing local, seasonal food menus and offerings.

Sechelt is the perfect hub for launching day trips to nearby communities and is a hidden gem for culinary delights, including El Segundo, where bold, fresh, vibrant flavours come to life in a colourful fusion curation. From Thai Fondue and Pok Pok Chicken Wings to Buffalo Chicken Tacos and Big Poppa Mac and Cheese, there is something here for everyone in the family. Or finish a day of exploring with appetizers at The Porch Restaurant, located at the Oceanside Resort in Davis Bay. After dinner, settle into a room at this newly renovated hotel or spend the night at the Driftwood Motor Inn, Sechelt’s beachside hotel, but not until you’ve had a nightcap at its Beachside Kitchen Bar and Patio.

That Chicken Place alone is worth the trip to Powell River. Prepare your tastebuds for original West Coast fried chicken and poutine (and old-fashioned milkshakes, twisters and the ultimate Chicken and Waffle Sandwich). This is the perfect family-friendly spot when staying in Historic Townsite. It’s all just steps away from heritage spots like the Old Courthouse Inn, Townsite Public Market, and Townsite Brewing, so all your cravings can be met without even getting in the car.

East: Coquitlam and Surrey

Get ready for a flavour extravaganza east of Vancouver, with hundreds of opportunities for tasting international foods, starting at restaurants and markets in Coquitlam’s diverse neighbourhoods. Stay in the heart of Korea Town along North Road at The Executive Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre Metro Vancouver. Try Café Hashtag along North Road, which is turning heads with its Cro-Waffles, a combo of a croissant and waffle on a stick. Kokoro Tokyo Masezoba is heavenly for ramen and Kimbab Cheonguk is the top spot for Korean.

While in the area, don’t miss Surrey’s newly launched Spice Trail—a culinary and retail experience focused on South Asian, Malay, Korean, and other ethnic cuisines. With more than 30 participants, you’ll want to stay a while. Try Chacha’s Tandoor & Grill for a mix of street food and North Indian cuisine with tandoori. Guacamole Mexican Grill is the perfect casual dining experience for Mexican food lovers—be sure to try Ceviche de Camarones and Pollo Mole, paired with the non-alcoholic horchata. For a taste of the Caribbean, visit Di Reggae Cafe and try the oxtail soup on the brand new patio.

See as much as you can with a stay at the Civic Hotel, Four Points By Sheraton Surrey, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Surrey, or Comfort Inn & Suites—all of which offer Spice Trail packages.

Credit: Nook Restaurant (Shipyards District) | Destination BC/@vancitywild

North: North Shore

Visit one of the places that put freeride and downhill mountain biking on the map: Vancouver’s North Shore, the gateway to adventure where visitors can hike, zipline, rock climb, and of course, dine—all in one day. Prepare for food offerings as diverse as your palette, and comfort food made with fresh, local ingredients and served up against a backdrop of natural beauty. Plan a getaway to the Shipyards District, a historic area just a short SeaBus ride away from Downtown Vancouver, for cozy fire pits and abundant patio–hopping.

Burgoo Bistro is top notch for old-world, countryside ambience and comfort food or head to Buddha-ful Provisions for plant-based deliciousness made with fresh, wholesome ingredients crafted from scratch and made with love.

Hotels like the Seaside Hotel and the North Vancouver Hotel are offering up some incredible deals for summertime stays, including BOGOs with Reckless Biking eBike rentals, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers, and gift vouchers for Lonsdale Quay Market.

Credit: Golden Village District | Tourism Richmond

South: Richmond

Richmond‘s art, history, and robust food choices are largely influenced by the city’s multicultural identity and its diverse Asian population. From Japanese food courts to Hong Kong-style cafes, Chinese barbecue stalls to dim sum institutions .

Revel in options on Wai Sek Kai (Food Street), a three-block stretch of the Golden Village with 200 restaurants, or grab your chopsticks and some extra napkins and get ready for a taste explosion on The Dumpling Trail, a collection of restaurants serving up some of the most delectable dumplings this side of the Pacific.

Book an overnight stay in the new Versante Hotel opening end of July, or consider Steveston whose fishing heritage and fresh-off-the-boat seafood beckon at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Make this a summer to remember for more reasons than one. Go beyond the usual, with an open heart and open mind, and discover something new, right here in B.C. Plan your summer getaway now at ExploreBC.com.

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CREATED BY BCLIVING, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EXPLORE B.C.