Where to eat and drink near Vancouver beaches

Sunny days on the West Coast are to be savoured. For many Vancouver locals, the perfect summer day in the city means heading to the beach to enjoy some sun, sand and surf before capping the day off with eats and a pint near the water. Here are some choice spots to grab a bite near my favourite Vancouver beaches: Jericho, English Bay, Kitsilano, Dundarave, and Third Beach. [Photo credit: iStock.com/ wundervisuals]

Where to eat and drink near Vancouver beaches
Megan Lau By

Sushi Itoga

1
1668 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1C7

Located on Robson Street in Vancouver’s West End, Sushi Itoga might be a little farther from the beach, but it’s worth the trek. Itoga specializes in super fresh, super delicious sushi that’s also Ocean Wise-certified, meaning you can indulge in local seafood, guilt-free. Order at the counter and grab a seat at the communal table. The staff are friendly and keep the green tea coming. Better yet, order a selection of rolls, nigiri and sashimi to take away, and then rally your pals for an al fresco sushi picnic at nearby English Bay.

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Sylvia Hotel

2
1154 Gilford St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2P6

The ivy-covered Sylvia Hotel is a beloved sight in the West End. Built in 1912, the iconic hotel is one of Vancouver’s heritage jewels; in fact, some of the original Art Deco finishes can still be admired today. For a truly Vancouver experience, take a stroll or bike ride along the Seawall and retire to Sylvia’s onsite restaurant, which offers a formal dining room as well as a more casual lounge and an outdoor patio. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are available and almost every seat offers a stunning view overlooking English Bay.

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Octopus Garden Restaurant

3
1995 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1C9

After admiring the gorgeous Vancouver waterfront, it’s time to sample the bounty that comes out of the ocean! Octopus’ Garden is a hidden gem near Kitsilano Beach offering a small menu of Japanese including sushi and sashimi. On-the-go eaters looking for a beachside snack can order sushi pockets – a handheld sushi sandwich with fillings such as spicy tuna, unagi tempura, and even foie gras! The restaurant’s main event is the omakase menu (chef’s choice); reserve this marvellous meal at least 24 hours in advance, and then prepare to be wowed.

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Siegel's Bagels

4
1883 Cornwall Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1C6

Siegel's has been a Vancouver fixture for over a quarter century. Founder Joel Siegel brought his Montreal-style bagel recipe to Vancouver and quickly boiled and baked his way to a devoted following. On your way to Kits beach, you can pick up bagels and a container of schmear, or a big deli sandwich: Montreal smoked meat and beef salami are specialties. Don’t forget a tasty chocolate walnut rugolach for dessert.

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AnnaLena

5
1809 1st Avenue W, Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8

Drop off the flip-flops and sarong, and dress up for the occasion at this upscale restaurant that’s considered to be one of the best in the city. Located a couple minutes from the eastern edge of Kits Beach, AnnaLena defies neat labels: it fuses global cuisines with French technique, and incorporates street art into its chic dining room. The chocolate-covered fried chicken skin dessert is just one example of chef Michael Robbins’s unorthodox approach to local cuisine.

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Third Beach Concession

6
Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2

Nothing says summertime like an ice cream cone on the beach. Stanley Park’s Third Beach is a little quieter and less crowded than nearby English Bay, and is easy accessible on foot through the park or by bike along the Seawall. Plan to spend the day here soaking up the sun, dipping in the water and enjoying the picturesque mountain views. When hunger strikes, hit the beachside concession stand for casual snacks and no-frills finger-foods like burgers, hot dogs and French fries.

More from Megan Lau Megan Lau
Megan Lau is the Digital and Content Strategist for YWCA Metro Vancouver. She always has 20 tabs open, searching for a great read, an inspiring idea, or compelling cause. Wherever Megan is in the world, you’ll find her on the hunt for a transcendent bite of food, a perfectly mixed cocktail, or a unique space to share a night with friends. At home, she is an enthusiastic cook and baker.
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