Best Restaurants in Chinatown Vancouver
1. Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie
Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie is a standout in Vancouver's Chinatown, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary Chinese cuisine. The restaurant's chic and modern decor contrasts with its deeply rooted culinary traditions, creating a unique dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Mapo Tofu: This dish is a flavorful mix of spicy, numbing, and savory elements, with tender tofu pieces in a rich sauce.
- Pork Belly: Braised to perfection, the pork belly is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Why It’s Special: Bao Bei focuses on quality ingredients and a fusion of flavors that respect traditional Chinese cooking while embracing modern culinary techniques.
2. Jade Dynasty Restaurant
Jade Dynasty Restaurant is known for its exceptional dim sum and classic Cantonese dishes. The restaurant's ambiance is elegant, making it a great spot for both casual meals and special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow): These delicate dumplings are a dim sum staple, featuring plump shrimp wrapped in a translucent dough.
- BBQ Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao): Soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet and savory BBQ pork.
Why It’s Special: Jade Dynasty offers a comprehensive dim sum menu that includes both traditional favorites and innovative new creations. The quality of ingredients and meticulous preparation are evident in every dish.
3. Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is a celebrated spot for its Cambodian cuisine, which includes influences from both Vietnamese and Thai flavors. It’s a favorite for its vibrant and bold flavors, and it often draws lines of eager patrons.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Chicken Wings: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these wings are marinated with a unique blend of spices.
- Beef Lok Lak: A flavorful stir-fried beef dish served with a tangy lemon-pepper dipping sauce.
Why It’s Special: Phnom Penh stands out for its rich and complex flavors, combining traditional Cambodian techniques with a diverse range of spices.
4. New Town Bakery & Restaurant
New Town Bakery & Restaurant is renowned for its delectable bakery items and comforting Cantonese dishes. The bakery offers a range of pastries and buns that are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Egg Tarts: These custard tarts have a smooth, creamy filling encased in a flaky pastry shell.
- BBQ Pork Buns: Another take on the classic, featuring a slightly sweet and savory filling.
Why It’s Special: New Town Bakery is celebrated for its baked goods, which are made fresh daily. The combination of traditional Cantonese cuisine and bakery items makes it a must-visit for any food lover.
5. Ho Yuen Kee
Ho Yuen Kee is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving traditional Cantonese dishes for decades. Its reputation for consistent quality and generous portions makes it a local favorite.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Wonton Noodle Soup: A comforting bowl of clear broth with tender wontons and thin egg noodles.
- Salt and Pepper Squid: Crispy squid rings seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and aromatic spices.
Why It’s Special: The restaurant’s long-standing reputation and commitment to traditional Cantonese flavors make it a reliable choice for classic dishes.
6. The Bao Place
The Bao Place specializes in a variety of bao (steamed buns) with creative fillings. The restaurant’s modern and casual atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a quick meal or a laid-back lunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Pork Belly Bao: Rich and flavorful pork belly served in a soft steamed bun.
- Chicken Katsu Bao: A Japanese-inspired bao with crispy chicken katsu and tangy sauce.
Why It’s Special: The Bao Place offers an inventive take on traditional bao, with a range of fillings that blend different culinary influences.
7. Kam Wai Dim Sum
Kam Wai Dim Sum is a go-to spot for dim sum enthusiasts. Its extensive menu features a wide range of dim sum options, from dumplings to buns, all made fresh to order.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Beef Meatballs: Tender meatballs with a savory sauce.
- Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf: A flavorful mixture of rice, meats, and vegetables wrapped in lotus leaves.
Why It’s Special: Kam Wai Dim Sum is known for its dedication to traditional dim sum preparation and high-quality ingredients.
8. Tasty Restaurant
Tasty Restaurant is known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and friendly service. It’s a great place to enjoy traditional dishes in a relaxed environment.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Clay Pot Rice: A hearty and flavorful rice dish cooked in a clay pot with a variety of meats and vegetables.
- Beef Brisket Noodle Soup: Tender beef brisket served with flavorful broth and noodles.
Why It’s Special: The restaurant’s focus on traditional Cantonese dishes and warm service make it a popular choice among locals.
9. Seven Seas Restaurant
Seven Seas Restaurant offers a diverse menu that includes both Chinese and Western dishes. Its casual atmosphere and extensive menu make it a versatile dining option.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Seafood Hot Pot: A hearty and flavorful hot pot filled with a variety of seafood and vegetables.
- Sweet and Sour Pork: A classic dish with crispy pork chunks in a tangy sweet and sour sauce.
Why It’s Special: Seven Seas provides a wide range of dishes that cater to different tastes, making it a versatile option for groups with varied preferences.
10. Yu Xiang Yuan Restaurant
Yu Xiang Yuan Restaurant is known for its Szechuan cuisine, featuring bold and spicy flavors. It’s a great spot for those who enjoy dishes with a kick.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Mapo Tofu: A spicy tofu dish with a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Kung Pao Chicken: A classic Szechuan dish with a combination of chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce.
Why It’s Special: The restaurant’s focus on Szechuan flavors and its commitment to authenticity make it a favorite for fans of spicy cuisine.
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