Craving comfort food, exotic flavours, or a laid-back brunch? This End of Summer guide will help you savour the season with unforgettable meals. From hidden gems to bustling BBQ joints, these spots are sure to make your final summer days deliciously memorable.

Northern Cafe & Grill

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Vancouver that blends nostalgia with some seriously mouth-watering dishes, Northern Cafe and Grill is the spot. Tucked away on top of a lumberyard—yes, you read that right—this family-owned diner has been serving up comfort food since 1949. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.  Expect vintage decor, a cozy vibe, and hearty meals that could have come straight from your grandmother’s kitchen.

And it’s not just us saying this—Northern Cafe has racked up some major street cred. They were named Yelp’s #1 Best Place to Eat in Canada in 2023 and took the spot at #1 for Vancouver’s Best Place to Eat in 2022. That’s right, we’re talking nationwide praise here.

The food? Well, it’s the best of both worlds. They’ve got your classic Western dishes like juicy AAA burgers and fluffy pancakes but they also serve Asian comfort food like homemade wontons and potstickers that hit the spot every time. It’s all about that homemade goodness, and you can feel the love in every bite. Breakfast, lunch, or brunch—Northern Cafe’s got you covered all day long. 

Part of what makes this place special is the sense of community. As a family-owned diner that’s been around for over 70 years, it feels like an extension of Vancouver’s history. Locals have been coming back for generations, and the welcoming vibe makes it easy to see why. 

Whether you’re on the hunt for a new brunch spot or just want a great breakfast in a totally unique location, Northern Cafe and Grill should be on your radar. They are known by many to have the best breakfast / lunch in Vancouver.

Check them out on Instagram for a sneak peek at what’s cooking and visit their website to take a deep dive into their menu.

The Park Pub

The Park Pub is a beloved Vancouver hotspot that’s perfect for enjoying a game. With 25 beer taps and 14 screens, it’s the go-to destination to watch the game any night of the week. Don’t miss their daily happy hour from 3-6 PM, where you can score fantastic deals on food and drinks.

Located at 1755 Davie St, Vancouver, The Park Pub’s menu caters to a variety of tastes with options for breakfast, brunch, and dinner. Start your day with their French Toast Churros—brioche bread dipped in French toast batter, rolled in cinnamon, sugar, and cornflakes, and topped with seasonal berries and mint—or the Fried Chicken Benny, featuring crispy fried chicken, pickles, pickled onions, and chipotle hollandaise.

For dinner, savour dishes like Sweet + Savoury Braised Beef with seasonal vegetables and creamy garlic mashed potatoes, Pistachio-Crusted Chicken with pistachio lime butter, garlic mashed potatoes, and asparagus, or a Coconut Basil Rice Noodle Bowl with rice noodles, garlic, ginger, chicken, and vegetables in a sweet, spicy sauce.

Starting September 3rd, The Park Pub is launching a new breakfast rewards card. Earn a stamp with every visit and unlock complimentary items and exclusive discounts. Unlike many rewards programs, this one rewards you with something special every time you dine.

Explore their full menu and daily specials and check them out on Instagram to discover why The Park Pub is a must-visit spot!

Beest Ramen

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver at 770 Bute Street, Beest Ramen offers a unique dining experience with its modern, samurai-inspired décor. The restaurant specialises in mazemen, a brothless ramen, but also serves a variety of ramen dishes. Each meal is meticulously crafted with roast beef as the central protein, and their ramen features a rich beef broth simmered for over 12 hours. Whether you choose mazemen or ramen, you’re in for a satisfying bowl.

Since its opening last year, Beest Ramen has continued to refine its menu based on customer feedback. With every dish, the team strives for improvement, ensuring that the food has only gotten better over time. The chewy noodles, paired with tender roast beef, are complemented by a variety of flavourful oils and sauces. If you opt for the mazemen, you’ll enjoy the vibrant flavours of the Shoyu, Smokey Miso, or Creamy sauces, among others. Each bowl is customizable with portion sizes and add-ons like kimchi or poached egg.

Beest Ramen not only offers top-quality dishes but also a unique ambiance that reflects the strength and honour of samurai culture. Decorated in black and grey with gold accents, the space provides a perfect backdrop for a hearty meal. And if you frequent Beest, the loyalty program offers perks like free ice cream and extra noodles with each visit. Whether you’re seeking a cosy bowl of ramen or the bold, complex flavours of mazemen, Beest Ramen promises a memorable and continually improving dining experience​.

Check out their Instagram to stay up to date with Beest Ramen.

Skye Avenue

Skye Avenue in Surrey has quickly become a must-visit for those seeking a mix of fine dining and exceptional whisky. Since opening last year, this restaurant-lounge hybrid has quickly gained attention for offering a remarkable mix of upscale dining, world-class whisky selections, and a chic atmosphere.

Skye Avenue isn’t just another dining spot; it’s home to one of the world’s largest whisky collections. Skye Avenue boasts over 3,000 bottles of whisky. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or simply curious, their whisky lounge offers a wide range of globally sourced options, making it a perfect place for exploring new flavours and enjoying a relaxing drink in style.

Curated by Michelin-recommended chef Valerio Pescetelli, Skye Avenue’s menu delivers an impressive variety of global dishes. From Italian classics to Peruvian and Asian-inspired creations, the culinary offerings cater to diverse tastes. Highlights include luxurious options like Australian lamb loin and inventive sushi rolls, ensuring something for every palate. The focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients is evident, enhancing every dish’s quality and flavour.

Skye Avenue also offers two exclusive chef’s tables, perfect for anyone looking for a more personal and interactive dining experience. Combine that with their “No Rush Hour” happy hour concept and private dining rooms, and you’ve got a venue that serves as both a top-tier dining spot and an ideal destination for special occasions and social gatherings.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner, Skye Avenue has you covered. It’s a great place to unwind after work or celebrate a weekend outing. The restaurant is located at 13450 102 Avenue in Surrey. This makes it a convenient option for both locals and visitors alike​.

For more information or to make a reservation, check out Skye Avenue’s website. You can check out their full menu here, and make sure to follow them on Instagram to stay up to date with all things Skye Avenue.

Bodega on Main

Bodega on Main, located along Vancouver’s vibrant Main Street, is a beloved family-owned spot that has mastered the art of traditional Spanish tapas. Inside this charming 100-year-old building, the warm atmosphere, high ceilings, and nostalgic Spanish decor set the stage for lively conversations and shared plates.

Enjoy tapas paired with exclusive Spanish wines, sherry flights, or sip on creative cocktails from their full bar. Their expert mixologists ensure every drink is as memorable as the meal. They have a range of signature cocktails, rare wines, and alcohol-free options to choose from.

Bodega on Main offers a variety of tapas, including charcuterie, seafood specialties, and show-stopping, Instagram-worthy paellas. Treat yourself to gourmet preserves, artisanal meats, and a delicious dessert menu that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings—or wrap up your meal with an espresso or glass of port.

There is a daily Happy Hour, with food and drinks starting from just $6, or enjoy their weekend tapas brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM, featuring vegetarian options that cater to all palates.

Craving those classic Bodega flavours at home? Order on Uber Eats, DoorDash, or directly from their website for pickup. You can even take home their signature Bodega Brava Sauce—just ask in-house for details!

If you’re planning a special event, Gran Reserva is tucked beneath Bodega on Main. This venue offers a private dining space perfect for intimate gatherings, whether it’s a seated dinner, cocktail party, or special celebration with family and friends.

Check out their full menu on their website. Keep up to date with Bodega on Main by following them on Instagram.

Dae Bak Bon Ga

Dae Bak Bon Ga is the largest Korean BBQ restaurant in Downtown Vancouver. For over 19 years, this spot has been a favourite for families and friends seeking a memorable Korean BBQ experience.

Located conveniently at Robson and Jervis Street, Dae Bak Bon Ga offers a spacious venue. They can accommodate over 140 guests, making it ideal for gatherings of any size. The highlight here is the All You Can Eat (AYCE) menu, which features a variety of premium Korean beef and pork cuts, all prepared with diverse marinades and spices. The AYCE menu also includes special items like mini-bibimbap and torched sushi.

In addition to the exceptional meats, the restaurant offers an array of traditional Korean side dishes, from kimchi to japchae, adding authentic flavours to your meal. The attentive staff ensure that your grill is replaced regularly, enhancing the overall dining experience​.

After indulging in the BBQ feast, guests can continue the fun in one of the five private Karaoke rooms, making Dae Bak Bon Ga the perfect destination for both dining and entertainment​.

Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a fantastic buffet, there’s something here to satisfy every palate. Check them out on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest and visit their website to dive into their menu.

The Pawn Shop

Welcome to Granville Street’s most vibrant Tex-Mex gem – a multicultural inspired taco and tequila bar. Immerse yourself in the eclectic atmosphere where East L.A meets the Pacific Northwest, boasting hand-painted graffiti walls and mesmerizing murals that add an urban edge to the space.

Step into the lively ambiance, where friendly staff ensures every visit feels like a fiesta. Indulge in a menu bursting with flavor, featuring an array of mouthwatering tacos, loaded nachos, hearty burritos, and irresistible churro donuts. 

Fuel your night with beats supplied by local Vancouver DJs who are spinning tunes every evening. Affordability meets quality at the Pawn Shop. They have happy hour specials, features, and fantastic deals on both food and drink with an extensive selection of tequila and cocktails that are crafted to perfection. Whether you’re seeking a casual dinner or a late-night snack, the kitchen is open late to serve Vancouver night-owls.

Tired of the hustle and bustle? Escape to the secluded back patio, exuding a serene garden vibe. Here you can unwind away from the flurry of Granville Street. 

Make sure to check out this taco and tequila haven, where every visit promises a memorable experience. It’s sure to be filled with great food, fantastic drinks, and even better company.

Follow them on Instagram to keep up with The Pawn Shop. Check out their website to dive into their menu, order delivery, or make a reservation.

These restaurants offer the perfect way to wrap up the season in style. Whether you’re discovering a new favourite spot, or revisiting an old classic, explore their menus, follow them online, and make the most of these final summer days.

Source: 604NOW