Where do we eat?
When people find out how ‘into’ food we are we’re often asked what our favourite restaurant in town is. Not possible; there is no single one. And each response must be qualified. Some ask expecting us give ‘A’ list and expensive establishments. Couldn’t be further from it. Despite new additions, and some subtractions, here are a few of our most often recommended faves:
- Phnom Penh Restaurant – Honest, familiy-run, fresh, unique and superlative Vietnamese and Cambodian fare.
- Vij’s – Masterful and world-renowned Indian fusion. No reservations and they mean it. They once refused to take a reservation for even the Dali Lama.
- West – The recent departure of brilliant and notable Chef David Hawksworth has not ended the run of this French-influenced restaurant. Rather, it has breathed new life to the menu.
- Doña Cata – Qualifies as a cheap eats bargain, they recently moved to larger premises. The tacos are authentic Mexico. A row of no less than ten salsa options on the counter organized from mild to hot.
- Sha-Lin Noodle House – Hand made right in front of your eyes Chinese noodle house. Order the Number 1 House Special Mixed Meat Fried Cutting Noodles. If you like curry, get the curry version.
- Hapa Izakaya – Authentic and inventive Japanese izakaya equally good in either of two locations. Buzzing with energy, you’ll be surprise how fast time flies and how little the bill is relative to the delights you ate.
- Kintaro Ramen – We hesitate to tell more people about this considering the long lines at meal time, but likely the most authentic and delicious ramen this side of the Pacific. The pork broth based noodles are prepared one bowl at a time. For a slightly healthier and organic chicken stock ramen in a more modern Japan-meets-Arthur Erickson setting, venture one block north to Motomachi (same ownership).
For some additional Vancouver hot spots, check out our list of favourite restaurants on Foodists.ca.
