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Food Vancouver Select Guide: West End Part Two
In this issue of “Food Vancouver's Select Guide”, we will take you on a stroll of Davie Street – a very popular dining area in Vancouver’s exciting West End. No matter what the weather, or the time of year, whenever you visit, the hustle and bustle of Davie Street in Vancouver’s West End is always in full swing. The stretch of Davie Street that’s bordered by Denman Street to the west and Burrard Street to the east is particularly lively, and it’s always rainbow-friendly.
After a stroll along the seawall at English Bay, head up the hill toward Davie Village, the heart of Davie Street. Along the way you’ll pass numerous cafes, restaurants, lounges, and great places to stop for a casual nosh.
At the corner of Davie and Denman is The Calling Public House, where locals and visitors feel equally at home. Across the street is the Sands Bayside Room, which has a killer view of English Bay. Indulge your inner Canadian Idol and check out the karaoke at Checkers. There are all sorts of choices at this end of Davie, from Indian at Swagat to healthy smoothies at Wrap Zone.
Two short blocks away starts the area known as Davie Village, known for its diversity. Lolita's serves inspired Mexican cuisine, and if you’re looking for a place to enjoy the game, pop into Score.
Coffee shops abound on Davie, with a Starbucks every few blocks. But for a local, neighbourhood vibe there’s always Melriches Coffee House, which features Fair Trade and organic coffee, and a block up the street is Canadian chain Blenz.
Whether you have time to sit down, or you’re eating on the run, you’ll find it all right here. There are plenty of options for diverse Asian cuisine, such as Sushi Bar or Shang Hai 1949 Bistro – you can’t miss its bright red door. For something on the run there’s Ho Ho’s Kitchen and Thai Away Home. Café Luxy has something for everyone, and you can grab a quick panini at Baguette Time. India Bistro has been featured on City TV, and offers great value, especially at their all-you-can-eat lunch buffet.
If burgers are your style, then you’re in luck. Hamburger Mary’s is an institution on Davie Street, and just across the street in the Mac’s convenience store there’s a Triple O’s outlet. For the true burger lover, Vera’s Burger Shack just up the street is serious burger heaven, and features fresh beef, lamb and turkey burgers.
The next block is absolutely packed with restaurants, and you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. Stepho's is the West End’s most popular Greek restaurant. It’s almost always lined up, but well worth the wait.
On a sunny day the patio at Characters can’t be beat for people watching, but The Pump Jack’s patio gives it a run for its money. Try the Majestic Lounge for snacks and drinks, and Moxie’s for a reliable casual dining option. If cool is what you’re after, head over to 1181, which is becoming a hot spot.
Always diverse, there’s Lebanese at Mona’s, Japanese at Kisha Popo, Thida Thai, Davie Mongolia BBQ, Pacific Wok, and Samurai which is known for its generous potions. You’ll find Persian and vegetarian at Zagros, sushi at Kadoya, Singaporean cuisine at Kam’s Place, and The Fountain Head, which has taken on the role of neighbourhood pub on this stretch of Davie. Check out Oasis for daily cocktail features.
The next block, between Thurlow and Burrard brings you closer to some of the clubs, like Celebrities, that have made this street famous for its late night vibe. On your way home after a night on the town there’s always Denny’s, or for some of the best fries in town, head a little further up to Fritz European Fry House for the fries (and dips) that Belgium is famous for.
You can’t help but feel the energetic vibe of Davie Street when you explore this area, and the eclectic mix of restaurants reflects the diversity of the people and the neighbourhood. It’s worth it to take the time to get to know this part of the West End, and there’s no better way to do that than by noshing your way through it.
by Becky Solomon
photo courtesy of Romano's Macaroni Grill Articles on Food Vancouver:
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