Discovering Vancouver’s Chinatown Food Scene: A Culinary Journey

Chinatown is a neighborhood that has been a part of Vancouver’s cultural fabric for over a century. It is a place where you can find a myriad of restaurants, cafes, and bakeries that offer authentic Chinese dishes and fusion cuisine that is unique to this vibrant community. The food scene is constantly evolving, and new restaurants are popping up all the time. Here are the top-rated restaurants to visit and where to find them.

1. The Jade Seafood Restaurant

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The Jade Seafood Restaurant is a fine dining experience that offers authentic Cantonese cuisine. It is located on Pender Street, and it’s the perfect place to go for dim sum. The restaurant has received numerous accolades, including being named Vancouver Magazine’s Restaurant of the Year in 2015. The ambiance is elegant, and the service is exceptional. The Jade Seafood Restaurant is a must-visit for those looking for a special dining experience.

2. Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie

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Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie is a small, intimate restaurant that focuses on modern Chinese cuisine. The dishes are meant to be shared, and they are flavorful and inventive. The restaurant is located on Keefer Street and has a cozy atmosphere that makes it a great spot for a date night. The cocktails are also a must-try, and they have an impressive selection of Chinese spirits.

3. New Town Bakery

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New Town Bakery is a Chinatown institution that has been around for over 30 years. They specialize in Chinese pastries and baked goods, and their barbecue pork buns are a fan favorite. The bakery is located on Pender Street and has a no-frills atmosphere. It’s a great spot to grab a quick snack or to take some treats home with you.

4. Sai Woo

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Sai Woo is a restaurant that combines traditional Chinese flavors with modern techniques. The dishes are creative and visually stunning, and the atmosphere is trendy and chic. The restaurant is located on East Pender Street and has a bar area where you can enjoy a drink before dinner. The menu changes seasonally, so there is always something new to try.

5. Phnom Penh

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Phnom Penh is a Cambodian-Vietnamese restaurant that has been serving up delicious dishes for over 30 years. The restaurant is located on East Georgia Street and is known for its crispy chicken wings and butter beef. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, and it’s not uncommon to see a line out the door. The prices are also reasonable, making it a great spot for a budget-friendly meal.

6. The Ramen Butcher

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The Ramen Butcher is a Japanese-style ramen restaurant that has a cult following. The broth is made from scratch, and the noodles are cooked to perfection. The restaurant is located on East Georgia Street and has a sleek and modern atmosphere. They also have a great selection of Japanese beer and sake.

7. Chinatown BBQ

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Chinatown BBQ is a no-frills barbecue joint that specializes in Cantonese roast meats. The restaurant is located on Gore Avenue and is known for its crispy pork belly and char siu. It’s a great spot for a quick and affordable meal, and the portions are generous.

8. Kissa Tanto

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Kissa Tanto is a restaurant that combines Italian and Japanese flavors to create a unique dining experience. The dishes are creative and beautifully presented, and the atmosphere is sophisticated and romantic. The restaurant is located on East Pender Street and has a lounge area where you can enjoy a cocktail before dinner.

9. The Union

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The Union is a restaurant that offers pan-Asian dishes with a focus on Vietnamese flavors. The dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients, and they have a great selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant is located on Union Street and has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. They also have a great selection of craft beer and wine.

10. Fat Mao Noodles

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Fat Mao Noodles is a restaurant that specializes in hand-pulled noodles and Sichuan cuisine. The dishes are spicy and flavorful, and they have a great selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant is located on East Georgia Street and has a casual and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

11. Matchstick Coffee Roasters

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Matchstick Coffee Roasters is a cafe that offers specialty coffee and baked goods. They have a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing, and the coffee is roasted in-house. The cafe is located on East Georgia Street and has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee and a pastry to go.

12. Harvest Community Foods

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Harvest Community Foods is a grocery store and cafe that offers local and organic produce, as well as prepared foods. The cafe has a focus on vegetarian and vegan dishes, and they have a great selection of gluten-free options. The cafe is located on Union Street and has a bright and airy atmosphere. It’s a great spot to grab a healthy lunch or to stock up on groceries.

13. The Keefer Bar

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The Keefer Bar is a cocktail bar that has a focus on Chinese herbs and ingredients. The drinks are creative and beautifully presented, and the atmosphere is intimate and moody. The bar is located on Keefer Street and has a speakeasy vibe. It’s a great spot for a nightcap and to try some unique cocktails.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Chinatown Vancouver?

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The best time to visit Chinatown Vancouver is during the daytime when the shops and restaurants are all open. However, if you are looking for a more lively atmosphere, it’s best to visit on the weekends when the neighborhood is bustling with activity.

2. Is it safe to walk around Chinatown Vancouver at night?

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Chinatown Vancouver is generally safe to walk around at night, but it’s always best to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone if possible.

3. What type of food can I find in Chinatown Vancouver?

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Chinatown Vancouver is known for its authentic Chinese cuisine, but you can also find a variety of other Asian-inspired dishes, including Japanese, Vietnamese, and Cambodian cuisine.

4. Is parking available in Chinatown Vancouver?

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There are a few parking options available in Chinatown Vancouver, including metered street parking and paid parking lots. However, it’s always best to take public transportation or walk, as parking can be limited and expensive.

5. Can I find vegetarian and vegan options in Chinatown Vancouver?

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Yes, there are a variety of vegetarian and vegan options available in Chinatown Vancouver. Many of the restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, and there are also a few specialty cafes and grocery stores that cater to the plant-based crowd.

6. Are reservations necessary for the restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver?

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It’s always best to make reservations for the more popular restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver, especially on the weekends. However, many of the smaller restaurants operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

7. Are there any specialty food stores in Chinatown Vancouver?

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Yes, there are a few specialty food stores in Chinatown Vancouver where you can find authentic Chinese ingredients and snacks. Some of the stores also carry specialty teas and cookware.

8. What is the price range for the restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver?

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The price range for the restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver varies depending on the restaurant. Some of the fine dining options can be quite expensive, while others are more budget-friendly. However, most of the restaurants offer affordable options for those on a tight budget.

9. What is the dress code for the restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver?

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The dress code for the restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver varies depending on the restaurant. Some of the fine dining options require more formal attire, while others have a more casual dress code. It’s always best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

10. Are there any food tours available in Chinatown Vancouver?

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Yes, there are a few food