Before we get started, a disclaimer: Gastown is so full of delicious destination restaurants that it’s almost impossible to limit ourselves to a top five. No matter what you’re looking for—a quick lunch, leisurely post-work drinks, or an intimate dinner date—Gastown has at least five options that are sure to fit the bill.
If we’re forced to narrow it down, though, here are our current favourites in downtown Vancouver’s liveliest neighbourhood.
Miku
Suite 70 – 200 Granville St, Vancouver, BC
Sushi abounds in Vancouver, but just because it’s plentiful doesn’t mean that every restaurant is the same. At Miku, you’ll find gourmet Aburi (or flame-seared) sushi, beautifully plated and served with care. This isn’t your average cheap-and-cheerful California roll lunch spot: instead, expect to spend some time savouring your meal. It’s worth every penny and great for special occasions!
L’Abattoir
217 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC
Don’t be put off by L’Abattoir’s Blood Alley-adjacent location—this is one of the most comfortable and elegant rooms in town. The colourful name is a nod to Vancouver’s history: this corner of Gastown used to serve as the city’s meatpacking district. The upscale France-meets-West Coast fare on offer at L’Abattoir (think sweetbreads and oysters) is sure to impress your next date. Don’t skip drinks, either. If you don’t manage to snag a reservation, grab a seat at the bar and sample their seasonal cocktails!
Salt Tasting Room
45 Blood Alley Square, Vancouver, BC
Tourists and locals alike used to be cautious when it came to venturing into Blood Alley, but Salt Tasting Room was one of the first places to turn the unusually named spot into a destination. Settle in at the long table, and build your ideal charcuterie board from the meat and cheese listed on nearby chalkboards. For a full Salt experience, you’ll probably want to pair your food with a wine flight. Service here is always excellent and knowledgable, so if you need help navigating the menu, just ask!
Pourhouse Restaurant
162 Water St, Vancouver, BC
If you want a classic Gastown experience at the kind of restaurant that’s sure to impress your out-of-town guests, look no further than Pourhouse. Right across the street from the neighbourhood’s iconic steam clock, Pourhouse offers a deliciously modern take on old-school fine dining. Don’t sleep on the spaghetti and meatballs—they may sound unassuming, but they’re way better than they need to be. The bartenders in charge of Pourhouse’s carefully chosen list are true mixologists and avid students of their craft, so be sure to save time for pre and post-dinner cocktails.
PiDGiN
350 Carrall St, Vancouver, BC
If anyone in your hearing ever doubts Vancouver’s status as a world-class foodie destination, gently steer them towards PiDGiN and get ready to receive their apologies. The Asian-meets-French menu here typifies the very best of world-melding casual excellence characterized by West Coast cuisine. Don’t even worry about what you’ll order: just trust the chef and go with the tasting menu. The friendly, expert service is just casual enough to put you at ease. Oh, PiDGiN—don’t tell the others, but you’re our favourite.
