Ahhh… British Columbia! Beautiful mountains, temperate rainforests, and the Pacific Ocean all within arm’s reach.
But a magnificent landscape is not the only thing that makes this province so special. One of the things that attracts international tourism to British Columbia year-round is its long list of world-class, high-quality restaurants. Not only that, but those who are vegan like myself, have so many delicious options to choose from!
For me, being Vegan for life starts with my love of and concern for all animals. Whether you are choosing more plant-based options for compassionate reasons, for health benefits, or out of concern for the environment - or are already an “all in” Vegan, a plant-based diet is much more accessible than it used to be, with many mouth-wateringly delicious Vegan and plant-based options available here in B.C.!
That’s why I wanted to share with you some of my favourite places to eat (in no particular order!).
Alright, we have all heard it before -- “Do you have vegan pizza?”
Wait... that might just be me!
Finding good vegan pizza in any city is challenging. That is, until Virtuous Pie came along. They delivered a completely plant-based pizza joint to the pizza-lovers of Vancouver and they never skip a beat. With unique flavors including “Stranger Wings” and “Super Fungi,” they have become a hotspot at both their Chinatown and UBC locations.
Heading into the heart of Vancouver to Granville and 12th, you’ll find an Heirloom. This chic restaurant’s name certainly precedes it and doesn’t exaggerate. It truly represents some of the best casual, yet contemporary, cuisine that Vancouver has to offer -- and yes, it’s entirely vegetarian with Vegan options for the majority of their menu.
Here, there is something for everyone and everything is made fresh to order. They serve brunch on the weekends and an all-day menu with a variety of dishes, and always cater to specific needs as requested. I highly recommend their home-made falafel burgers, or the Ninja bowl for a healthy, hearty meal.
If you’re in West Vancouver, they have a location in Ambleside, too. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
If you’re a North Vancouverite, or just love to come for the hiking trails, Buddha-full is one of my favorite local places to eat. They have something for just about any mood, whether it’s a quick smoothie, a coffee break, or a delicious meal. There is such a variety of tasty options that I know I will find exactly what I’m craving when I go there. Just look at their menu and you’ll see what I mean!
Not only is their menu completely vegan, it’s also 100% organic!
They serve breakfast, smoothies, fresh juice, hot bowls and salads -- and on a cold day, they also offer a variety of interesting and delicious hot beverages including Turmeric Lattes and Superfood Hot Chocolates.
With numerous locations throughout the Province, including Lower Lonsdale, Squamish and Whistler, the Green Moustache is a health food connoisseur’s paradise!
A Vancouver staple for vegan and vegetarian comfort food, MeeT’s various locations throughout the City have won numerous awards including the Georgia Straight’s Golden Plates awards placing 1st in both the Vegan and Vegetarian categories. You can find Meet in Yaletown, Gastown and on Main Street!
This is the spot to check out in Vancouver if you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience and unique cocktails! Located on Main Street, this award-winning restaurant offers a variety of creative meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You’ll find their more casual sister-restaurant, The Arbor, just down the block – also highly recommended if you’re in the mood for a great plant-based burger!
You can find BeetBox in the Downtown Vancouver’s Westend in the heart of Davie Village. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, you can’t beat their Friend “Chick-Un” Sandwich with a side of Crispy Onion Rings!
Zeyphy’s has been a longtime favourite of mine that I always try to make a visit to when I’m showing clients properties in Squamish! More than just serving great tasting, healthy, and fresh food options, Zephyr’s also supports local farmers in and around Squamish by sourcing local ingredients and provides a great space for community events and live performances (including an open mic night - can’t wait to enjoy these again)!
Located in Chinatown, MILA is one of Vancouver’s hottest new restaurants (and an instant favourite), combining a fun atmosphere, unique dishes, and artfully crafted cocktails – a great spot for a date or a night out with friends!
Copper Branch originally started in Montreal but has expanded across Canada, and Vancouver’s first Copper Branch location can be found in Yaletown.
A perfect spot for lunch or for takeout when you’re in a rush but want an affordable and healthy bite. I’m a big fan of their Power Bowls (which you can customize to your liking) – my favourite being the Aztek bowl.
If you have any favourite plant-based restaurants that I haven’t included on this list, please reach out and share your recommendations with me! I would love to meet you at one of these spots to discuss your real estate needs!
- Jacqueline