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CRE Annual Convention 2023
Recommended Restaurants & Things to Do
2023 Annual Convention: Vancouver, British Columbia
From William P.J. McCarthy, CRE and Family
Welcome to Vancouver, and Metro Vancouver, our home region! Our food and restaurant scene reflect the evolution of this region – diverse, multi-ethnic, and benefitting from the abundance of products and food from our local land and sea and beyond. We are also an adventurous and ever-changing foodscape. Many restaurants and food trends come and go, but many become institutions. We encourage you to explore both virtually, and when you land in the city. Anywhere you walk, you will find something interesting, either for a great cup of coffee, a light snack, or a very nice meal. The same applied for things to see and do here.
Here are some base recommendations on where to eat and go see. We have focused on the unique and the close by. Please feel free to ask any questions, on any matter, anytime. We are most gladly at your service – William McCarthy, CRE
McCARTHY RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
Greater Vancouver is a restaurant rich region. We are ethnically diverse and we have an abundance of food, produce, and fish and meat to work with. Our restaurant recommendations are divided into some of our favorite places where you are sure to have a good meal experience, ranging from the high end to the casual. We have also included the recent entries to the Michelin Guide following Vancouver’s inclusion last year.
And, we always advise guest to study the restaurants website and have a look see when you walk around the city. Our Convention hotel is ideally situated for just this.
Also, keep in mind the value of the Canadian dollar (around $0.75 of USD) with regards to tipping. Expect your bill to have a “recommended” tip in the 15 – 22% range programmed for selection, if you are so inclined. Many restaurants come and go and while they are here they are often quite good. Those which have endured do so because of their quality and consistency. Again, you really can’t go too far wrong with your selection(s). Bon Appetit!
Name: Le Crocodile
Description: For well over 30 years, the most consistently high quality and enjoyable restaurant experience in Vancouver. Traditional French cuisine, with multiple menu selections. Quality service and dining throughout. Reservations a must.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 909 Burrard St #100, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 16 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 669-4298 / info@lecrocodilerestaurant.com Website: https://www.lecrocodilerestaurant.com/
Price Range: High
Name: Gotham Steakhouse
Description: A traditional high end (and cost) steakhouse in a retrofitted hotel. In recent years the menu has been compressed and the prices have gone upwards but still a good steak experience. The Gotham’s Bar is often busy as well.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 615 Seymour St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 11 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 605-8282 / info@gothamsteakhouse.com Website: https://www.gothamsteakhouse.com/
Price Range: High
Name: Vij’s
Description: A true restaurant experience! Vikram Vij brought high end Indian cuisine to this region – which has hundreds of Southeast Asian restaurants to choose from. For those wanting to experience very good and very refined Indian cuisine from a Master, this is the place. Note: Vij’s reservation policy sometimes varies. Always check online and make a reservation.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3106 Cambie St, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 57 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 736-6664 Website: https://vijs.ca/vijs-restaurant/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Miku
Description: Sushi and sustainable seafood are served in a sophisticated setting with a patio and water views. Close to the Convention hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 200 Granville St #70, Vancouver – 1 minute by car / 2 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 568-3900 Website: https://mikurestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill
Description: Classic Italian fare with Westcoast influences. Cioppino’s is one of the premier dining destinations in the few blocks known as “Yaletown.” (There are several eateries in this neighborhood.) The chef/owner focuses on Tuscan/Florentine favorites and fish and meats.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1133 Hamilton St, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 25 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 688-7466 / pino@cioppinosyaletown.com Website: https://www.cioppinosyaletown.com/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Tojo’s Restaurant
Description: Internationally famous, the original high end and innovative sushi restaurant in the region and Canada. Tojo’s is famous for fresh and innovative sushi and Japanese specialties. This is the place the “Hollywood/celebrity crowd” goes to when they are in the city filming and other reasons. An interesting dining experience for sure. Located outside the
downtown core on the Broadway corridor (which is under construction for an expansion of our transit system.) Reservations recommended.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1133 W Broadway, Vancouver – 13 minutes by car / 56 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 872-8050 / info@tojos.com Website: https://tojos.com/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Giardino Restaurant
Description: The flagship operation of one of the region’s longest and most durable restauranteurs, Umberto Menghi. Since 1976 Umberto has been serving premium
Italian food, focused on his Tuscan roots. He formerly operated several restaurants, including the legendary Il Giardino. He now focuses on this one location and
it is renowned for its food, wine and beverage bar and service. One of the most influential operations in Canada. Reservations recommended.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1328 Hornby St, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 25 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 669-2422 Website: http://umberto.com/giardino/
Price Range: High
Name: Tasty’s Indian Bistro
Description: A recent addition to the Indian cuisine restaurant scene in downtown Vancouver. Tasty and reliable indeed.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1261 Hamilton Street, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 28 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 423-3300 / yaletown@tastybistro.com Website: https://tastybistro.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: East is East
Description: This restaurant cuisine is a homage to the Silk Road. The proprietors are of Afghan descent and offerings are reflective of the region and southern Asia. (Note, two locations – Broadway and Main Street.)
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3035 West Broadway, Vancouver – 16 minutes by car
Telephone/Email: 604-734-5881 Website:https://www.eastiseast.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Homer Street Cafe
Description: A great place to go for rotisserie chicken – that is their specialty. Chicken with potatoes and vegetables highlight a comfort food menu.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 898 Homer St, Vancouver – 7 minutes by car / 20 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 428-4299 / info@homerstreetcafebar.com Website: https://www.homerstreetcafebar.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House
Description: A longstanding Vancouver restaurant landmark with an active and oyster scene. Its Oyster Bar is renowned. Fortes focuses on all things seafood, but also has meat and pasta dishes. It is located near Vancouver’s “higher end” street shopping scene situated on Robson and Alberni Streets. A brisk walk from the Convention hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 777 Thurlow St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 14 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 669-1940 / info@joefortes.ca Website: https://www.joefortes.ca/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Blue Water Cafe
Description: Blue Water has emerged as a premier seafood destination in Greater Vancouver. Higher end but very fresh fare is offered from raw seafood to more
intricate seafood creations and beyond. Noted for its “seafood tower,” Blue Water is perhaps Vancouver’s most prominent seafood establishment now. Located in Yaletown. Reservations are recommended.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver – 4 minutes by car / 11 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 688-8078 Website: https://www.bluewatercafe.net/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: DiBeppe Restaurant
Description: DiBeppe calls itself “an homage to Italian caffè culture.” Good and hearty traditional Italian food.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 8 W Cordova St, Vancouver – 4 minutes by car / 13 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 559-1122 / info@dibeppe.com Website: https://www.dibeppe.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Brix & Mortar
Description: Another newer established restaurant in Yaletown. Brix & Mortar is a restaurant in Yaletown, Vancouver serving up modern Canadian cuisine. With a focus on fine wine and creative cocktails.
Location Distance from Hotel: 1137 Hamilton St, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 25 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 915-9463 Website: https://www.brixandmortar.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Il Nido Cafe
Description: A longstanding traditional Italian café/restaurant situated in Vancouver’s “high end” shopping streetscape. Homemade pastas are the highlight here. A casual and relaxing environment.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 780 Thurlow St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 15 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 685-6436 Website: https://www.ilnido.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Ancora
Description: Here is how Ancora describes their offerings. “Ancora’s cuisine manifesto is hinged on sustainable seafood, while sourcing local and international ingredients, and draws inspiration from its Pacific northwest surroundings.”
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1600 Howe Street, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 28 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 681-1164 / falsecreek@ancoradining.com Website: https://www.ancoradining.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Mott 32
Description: Mott 32 has its origins in New York. (Mott Street in Chinatown.) High quality Chinese food served in a very attractive setting in the Paradox Hotel Vancouver (which was originally named the Trump Hotel.) There is a very lively bar here as well. Perhaps Vancouver’s premier higher end Chinese dining experience. Reservations recommended.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1161 W Georgia St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 13 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 861-0032 Website: https://mott32.com/vancouver/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Chambar
Description: Fine Belgium dining with several creative dishes. This is including great frites and moules. An active good bar scene with lots of Belgium beer available.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 568 Beatty St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 15 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 879-7119 / info@chambar.com Website: https://www.chambar.com/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar
Description: Vancouver’s oldest and best-established steakhouse, dating back to 1955. This is Canada’s premier steakhouse chain with locations across Canada. Located close to the hotel, this is Vancouver’s longest standing traditional steak experience. Old school service in a facility not much changed from its origin. An easy walk from the Convention hotel. Located beside the Bill Reid Gallery where the Counselors farewell reception will be held.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 637 Hornby St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 10 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 683-7671 Website: https://www.hyssteakhouse.com/
Price Range: High
Name: Tomahawk
Description: A true Westcoast institution. The Tomahawk has been with us since the 1920s, still owned and operated by the same family. True comfort food, including their legendary Yukon breakfast. Their pies are great as well. This one is located in North Vancouver, so if your travels take you across the bridge it is a great experience. You will also see an excellent collection of First Nations art as the owners often traded pieces for meals years ago. A real bit of Canadiana. Check out Youtube videos on the Tomahawk – including Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive ins and Dives.”
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1550 Philip Ave, North Vancouver – 16 – 20 minutes by car
Telephone/Email: (604) 988-2612 Website: https://www.tomahawkrestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Jules Bar à Vin
Description: A traditional French bistro has morphed somewhat into a bistro-wine bar. Enjoy some traditional French fare and sample their extensive wine collection. This restaurant is located in Vancouver’s historic Gastown, an “interesting” area to walk and not too far from the hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 216 Abbott St, Vancouver – 4 minutes by car / 11 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 669-0033 Website: https://www.julesbistro.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Fish Counter
Description: The best fish and chips in the city! The owner formerly operated high end seafood restaurants and then chose to move to a smaller locale outside the downtown core where he sources and sells sustainable fish as well as operating his fish and chip counter. Great fries and always a wide range of battered fish to go with them. Worth a visit if you are in the area or prepared to travel for your fish and chips. (Note: This is not a sit down restaurant but an actual fish counter.)
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3825 Main St, Vancouver – 15 – 20 minutes by car
Telephone/Email: (604) 876-3474 Website: https://thefishcounter.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Kozaks Ukrainian Eatery
Description: Located just on the fringe of Vancouver’s Gastown, Kozaks is traditional Ukrainian and Central European fare. Enjoy Slavik comfort food in a very nice restaurant setting.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1 W Cordova St, Vancouver – 4 minutes by car / 13 minute walk
Telephone/Email: 778 955 9135 (Press 3) /alex.surnov@kozakeatery.ca Website: https://www.kozakeatery.ca/gt-menu
Price Range: Medium
Name: L’Abattoir
Description: They describe themselves as “Industrial-chic setting for Pacific Northwest fare with a French touch, plus craft cocktails.” A trendy restaurant in Gastown with an extensive menu in a nice setting.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 217 Carrall St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 13 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 568-1701 / info@labattoir.ca Website: https://www.labattoir.ca/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Water Street Cafe
Description: Located in Gastown, close to the hotel, the Water Street Café offers lunch and dinner with a focus on comfort food and homemade pastas. It is located right beside Gastown’s famous steam clock and it is consistently good.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 300 Water Street, Vancouver – 3 minutes by car / 8 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 689-2832 / info@waterstreetcafe.ca Website: https://www.waterstreetcafe.ca/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Five Sails Restaurant
Description: This is the signature restaurant within the Pan Pacific Hotel, site of the CRE Convention. The Five Sails offers one of the great restaurant views in the city, overlooking Burrard Inlet, Stanley Park and the Northshore mountains. Until recently this was a signature fine dining location, run by a classically trained husband and wife team. It is part of a local chain now, who are trying to maintain its reputation. Take a look at the menu and the view.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 999 Canada Pl Suite 410, Vancouver Telephone/Email: (604) 844-2855 Website: https://glowbalgroup.com/five-sails/
Price Range: High
Name: Published on Main (Plus Michelin Sommelier Award)
Description: Here is what Published says about themselves: “Upscale restaurant presenting innovative, carefully sourced cuisine amid retro-chic surroundings.” This restaurant was one of the initial group in Vancouver to get a Michelin Star (1) when the Guide introduced Vancouver establishments. Since opening a few years ago, Published in Main has won several awards. It was recently named again one of Canada’s top restaurant (No. 3 of 100 ranked coast to coast.) Reservations are recommended and you will need vehicle transportation to get to this locale outside the downtown core.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2593 Main Street, Vancouver – 15 minutes by car / 1 hour walk
Telephone/Email: 604) 423-4840 / info@publishedyvr.com Website: https://publishedonmain.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: St. Lawrence
Description: Since its opening a few years ago, the St. Lawrence has been a hit. This restaurant plays homage to hearty Quebecois cuisine from Canada’s La Belle province. A real Canadiana experience. Always highly ranked nationally, the same group survey that ranked Published on Main as Canada’s 3rd best, ranked the St. Lawrence as No. 6. Reservations recommended.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 269 Powell Street, Vancouver – 6 minutes by car / 18 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 620-3800 / info@stlawrencerestaurant.com Website: https://www.stlawrencerestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
VANCOUVER’S MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANTS
Greater Vancouver finally made the Michelin scene in 2022. What follows is the list of those receiving either a Michelin star (none exceeded one star), and/or a “worth a visit” status, and the Bib Gormand designation. Those who follow the Michelin process and have experienced so designated restaurants, know just how subjective this entire process and rating system is. This is the case in Vancouver after its two separate Michelin unveilings.
The number of omissions and many of the restaurants recognized surprised many would partake in the region’s culinary scene. Take a look at the list below and see what interests you – or not.
Metro Vancouver currently has eight one star restaurants. Michelin defines a one star as being “very good in its category, having a quality menu and prepares cuisine to a consistently high standard.” We will let you take a look at their websites for guidance.
Name: Annalena
Description: Season inspired
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1809 W. 1st Avenue, Vancouver – 11 minutes by car / 43 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (778) 379-4052 / info@annalena.ca Website: https://www.annalena.ca/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Barbara Restaurant
Description: Contemporary Cuisine
Location/Distance from Hotel: 305 East Pender Street, Vancouver – 7 minutes by car / 23 minute walk
Telephone/Email: info@barbararestaurant.com Website: https://barbararestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Burdock & Co
Description: Contemporary
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2707 Main Street, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 48 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 879-0077 / eat@burdockandco.com Website: https://www.burdockandco.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: IDen & Quani Ju De Beijing Duck House
Description: Chinese cuisine
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2808 Cambie Street, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 53 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (236) 477-7777 / info@quanjude1864.com Website: https://quanjudevancouver.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Kissa Tanto (Michelin Service Award)
Description: Japanese cuisine
Location/Distance from Hotel: 263 E. Pender Street, Vancouver – 7 minutes by car / 22 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (778) 379-8078 / hello@kissatanto.com Website: http://www.kissatanto.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Masayoshi
Description: Japanese cuisine
Location/Distance from Hotel: 4376 Fraser Street, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 1 hr. 12 min. walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 428-6272 Website: https://www.masayoshi.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Published on Main (Michelin Sommelier Award)
Description: Contemporary cuisine
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2593 Main Street, Vancouver – 15 minutes by car / 1 hour walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 423-4840 / info@publishedyvr.com
Website: https://publishedonmain.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: St. Lawrence
Description: French-Canadian cuisine Location/Distance from Hotel: 269 Powell Street, Vancouver – 6 minutes by car / 18 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 620-3800 / info@stlawrencerestaurant.com Website: https://www.stlawrencerestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
VANCOUVER’S “BIB GOURMAND” RESTAURANTS
In 2022, the Michelin Guide designated 12 restaurants as “Bib Gourmand” restaurants. These are defined as “a good restaurant that offers a refined cuisine at an affordable price.” The following is the list of Vancouver’s inaugural twelve “Bib Gourmand” recipients.
Name: Anh and Chi
Description: Authentic Vietnamese
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3388 Main Street, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 58 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 878-8883 / eat@anhandchi.com Website: https://anhandchi.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Chupito
Description: Mexican and local
Location/Distance from Hotel: 322 W. Hastings Street, Vancouver – 3 minutes by car / 10 minute walk
Telephone/Email: info@chupito.ca Website: https://www.chupito.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Fable Kitchen
Description: Local and farm to table
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1944 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver – 11 minutes by car / 49 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 732-1322 / food@fablekitchen.ca Website: https://fablekitchen.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Fiorino Italian Street Food
Description: Name says it all
Location/Distance from Hotel: 212 E. Georgia Street, Vancouver – 7 minutes by car / 23 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 568-0905 / info@fiorinovancouver.com Website: https://www.fiorinovancouver.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Song (by Kin Kao)
Description: Authentic Thai
Location/Distance from Hotel: 317 E. Broadway, Vancouver – 13 minutes by car / 36 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 568-0400 / info@songyvr.com Website: https://www.songyvr.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Little Bird Dim Sum + Craft Beer
Description: Traditional Dim Sum
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2958 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver – 15 minutes by car / 1 hour 8 min. walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 325-8132 Website: https://littlebirddimsum.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Nightshade
Description: “Elevated plant based experience.”
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1079 Mainland Street, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 24 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 566-2955 Website: https://www.nightshadeyvr.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Lunch Lady
Description: Vietnamese Street Food
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1046 Commercial Drive, Vancouver – 12 minutes by car / 55 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 559-5938 Website: https://thelunchlady.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Oca Pastificio
Description: Italian
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1260 Commercial Drive, Vancouver – 18 minutes by car
Telephone/Email: n/a Website: https://ocapastificio.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Phnom Penh
Description: Vietnamese
Location/Distance from Hotel: 244 East Georgia Street, Vancouver – 8 minutes by car / 24 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 734-8898 Website: https://phnompenhrestaurant.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Say Mercy!
Description: “An unexpected love story between Italian and American BBQ.”
Location/Distance from Hotel: 4298 Fraser Street, Vancouver – 19 minutes by car / 1 hr. 14 min. walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 423-3624 / reservations@saymercy.ca Website: https://www.saymercy.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Vij’s
Description: Premium Indian
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3106 Cambie Street, Vancouver – 15 minutes by car / 57 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 736-6664 Website: https://vijs.ca/vijs-restaurant/
Price Range: Medium-High
In July 2023 ten additional Vancouver area restaurants were also designated as “Bib Gourmand.” (No further Michelin stars were awarded to any of the current one star
restaurants. No new additional one stars made the list either.) The new “Bibs” are listed as follows:
Name: Archer
Description: Seasonal with a focus on fish.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1152 Alberni St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 14 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (778) 737-6218 / eat@archerdining.com Website: https://www.archerdining.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Bao Bei
Description: Chinese Brasserie
Location/Distance from Hotel: 163 Keefer St, Vancouver – 7 minutes by car / 21 minute drive
Telephone/Email: (604) 688-0876 / info@bao-bei.ca Website: https://www.bao-bei.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Farmer’s Apprentice
Description: Located in the Kitsilano neighborhood, the menu is contemporary, seasonal and includes BBQ.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1535 W 6th Ave, Vancouver – 10 minutes by car / 48 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 620-2070 / info@farmersapprentice.ca Website: https://farmersapprentice.ca/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Folke
Description: Vegetable and local farm focused.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2585 W Broadway, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 1 hr. 8 min. walk
Telephone/Email: (236) 455-6556 / info@folkerestaurant.com Website: https://www.folkerestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Hanai Vancouver
Description: Asian themed. Note, restaurant was temporarily closed. Check for status.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1590 Commercial Drive, Vancouver – 14 minutes by car / 1 hour walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 251-6932 Website: https://hanaivancouver.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Karma Indian Bistro
Description: Very good Indian food in a nice setting.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2741 W. 4th Ave, Vancouver – 15 minutes by car / 1 hr. 6 min. walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 559-1666 Website: https://www.karmaindianbistro.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Motonobu Udon
Description: Handmade Japanese Udon highlights the menu. Japanese comfort food.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3501 E. Hastings Street, Vancouver – 16 minutes by car / 1 hr. 27 min. walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 293-1889 Website: https://motonobuudon.ca/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Okeya Kyujiro
Description: Traditional Japanese – with an emphasis on fresh sushi.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1038 Mainland St, Vancouver, BC – 8 minutes by car / 24 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (778) 999-1038 Website: https://okeya.ca/vancouver-reservation-dinner/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Sushi Hil
Description: A newer addition to Vancouver’s ever growing sushi scene, the focus here is on fresh seafood and local ingredients.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3330 Main St, Vancouver – 15 minutes by car / 57 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (236) 482-9060 Website: https://www.sushihil.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Sushi Jin
Description: The restaurant is small with eight seats at the bar and two tables. Fresh artisan sushi.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 750 Nelson St, Vancouver – 6 minutes by car / 17 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 559-8834 Website: https://sushijinvancouver.ca/
Price Range: Medium-High
COCKTAILS, BARS & PUBS
Vancouver has a pretty active bar and pub scene, with all major hotels and restaurants operating their own take on the bar and wine scene. Here are some of the highlights.
Name: Irish Heather Shebeen
Description: A traditional Irish bar located in a “rougher” area of Vancouver. You could take the Skytrain line to the Main Street station and walk to this gastro pub.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 248 E Georgia St, Vancouver – 9 minutes by car / 24 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 688-9779 / reso@irishheather.com Website: https://www.irishheather.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Botanist at Fairmont Pacific Rim
Description: Located in the newest Fairmont hotel, a four minute walk from the hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver – 2 minutes by car / 4 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 695-5557 / info@botanistrestaurant.com Website: https://www.botanistrestaurant.com/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Reflections: The Garden Terrace (at Rosewood Hotel Georgia)
Description: Located in the historic Hotel Georgia (where Elvis and the Beatles stayed) before becoming part of the Rosewood chain.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 801 W Georgia St 4th Floor, Vancouver – 4 minutes by car / 11 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 673-7043 Website: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/
Price Range: Medium – High
Name: Bartholomew Bar
Description: Located in Vancouver’s Yaletown district, an upscale bar with a broad food selection from Happy Hour eats to full dinners.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1026 Mainland St, Vancouver – 8 minutes by car / 24 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 423-4131 Website: https://www.bartholomewbar.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: The Keefer Bar
Description: A traditional Westcoast bar.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 135 Keefer St, Vancouver – 6 minutes by car / 20 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 688-1961 Website: https://thekeeferbar.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Local Public Eatery – Gastown
Description: Several locations, including Gastown. (This is their test kitchen.) A diverse food menu to go with their brews and drink.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3 Alexander Street, Vancouver – 6 minutes by car / 12 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (778) 737-4277 Website: https://localpubliceatery.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market
Description: A great place to try fresh Westcoast seafood, either cooked (in multiple ways) or raw. Solid fish and chips.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 762 Cambie Street, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 18 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (778) 379-9510 Website: http://www.fannybayoysters.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Steamworks
Description: A major craft brewery operation in the region. Located right by the Convention hotel, at the gateway to historic Gastown. The place to sample B.C.’s craft brewery scene and have a snack or a meal.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 375 Water St, Vancouver – 2 minutes by car / 6 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 689-2739 Website: https://steamworks.com/brew-pub/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Pourhouse Restaurant
Description: A combination gastro pub and restaurant with casual plus dining. One of the few places to get a “Scotch egg” in Vancouver. A good burger selection. Located in historic Gastown.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 162 Water St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car, 8 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 568-7022 Website: https://www.pourhousevancouver.com/
Price Range: Medium
COFFEE / CAKE / CASUAL
Name: Faubourg Bakery
Description: Good coffee and traditional French pastries.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 769 Hornby Street, Vancouver – 7 minutes by car / 13 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 267–0769 / hornby@faubourg.com Website: https://www.faubourg.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Mario’s Coffee Express
Description: The proprietor takes pride in his rich coffee creations.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 595 Howe St, Vancouver – 3 minutes by car / 8 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 608-2804 Website: See Facebook
Price Range: Medium
Name: Angus T Bakery
Description: Cake and pastries in Yaletown.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1036 Mainland St, Vancouver – 8 minutes by car / 24 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 559-5989 / info@angust.com Website: http://www.angust.com/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Nemesis Coffee Gastown
Description: A boutique coffee shop in Gastown.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 302 W Hastings St, Vancouver – 3 minutes by car / 10 minute walk
Telephone/Email: n/a Website: https://www.nemesis.coffee/
Price Range: Medium
Name: Thierry Alberni
Description: Premium French pastries, snacks and coffee.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1059 Alberni St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 13 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 608-6870 Website: https://thierrychocolates.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: White Spot
Description: Since the 1920s, the Province’s most iconic and beloved casual dining and “home cooking” experience. Famous for their “Triple O” (it’s the sauce) burgers. A real local Canadian experience.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 405 Dunsmuir St, Vancouver – 5 minutes by car / 14 minute walk (Several locations)
Telephone/Email: (604) 899-4581 Website: https://www.whitespot.ca
Price Range: Medium
Name: Cactus Club
Description: A premier regional “higher end” casual eatery chain. Busy bar scene. This location is a short walk from the Convention hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1085 Canada Pl, Vancouver – 2 minutes by car / 5 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 620-7410 Website: https://www.cactusclubcafe.com
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: De Dutch Pannekoek House
Description: Traditional hearty breakfasts. The focus is on the plate-size Dutch pancakes. Close to the hotel in lower level facing the adjacent Convention Centre.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1055 Canada Pl #60, Vancouver – 2 minutes by car / 4 minute walk
Telephone/Email: (604) 647-7530 / dedutch@dedutch.com Website: https://dedutch.com/locations/burrard-landing/
Price Range: Modest
Name: Japadog
Description: Storefront outlets for the popular street-food purveyors offering over a dozen Japanese-style hotdogs. Popular since the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver.
Location/Distance from Hotel: Various locations. Closest to hotel are:
- 601 W Cordova St, Vancouver
- 530 Robson St, Vancouver
Website: https://japadog.com/
Price Range: Modest
Name: Café Artigiano
Description: Vancouver has a vibrant coffee scene. Café Artigiano is a premium locale chain, with Artisan styled coffee drinks, pastries and snacks. They have seven locations. The two referenced are about a 5 minute walk from the Convention hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel:
- 429 Howe Street, Vancouver
- 1101 W. Pender Street, Vancouver
Website: https://caffeartigiano.com/
Price Range: Medium-High
Name: Breka Bakery and Cafe
Description: A family operated bakery and coffee shop which began in 2006 and now has seven stores. The Hastings store is a 5 minute walk from the Convention hotel. Lots of traditional and fancy cakes, pastries and snacks to choose from. Open 24/7.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 740 West Hastings, Vancouver – 2 minutes by car, 5 minute walk
Website: https://www.breka.ca/
Price Range: Medium
** The Pan Pacific Hotel, site of the Counselors of Real Estate Annual Convention, is denoted in the red No. 7 icon.
SOME THINGS TO SEE AND DO
The Pan Pacific Hotel is a great point of departure for neighborhood and local walks, or to set off for more distance locales. Take a look at the Tourism BC website (https://www.hellobc.com/) and the Vancouver Tourism website (https://www.destinationvancouver.com/) and other sites for some suggestions. What follows are some more popular places to see and visit. Also check with the hotel concierge for any additional recommendations and/or any shows or activities that might be ongoing during our Convention. Also know which areas to be a little bit more cautious in. Always feel free to contact myself at my email (wpjm@wpjmccarthy.com) if you have any travel or related questions
– William McCarthy, CRE
Activity: Take Aquabus to Granville Island
Description: Granville Island is one of the favorite destinations for locals. It has a vibrant Public Market with a wide arrange of fresh Westcoast produce, products and foods. There are restaurants and shops to explore as well. Note that it is generally always busy and it can be hectic. Parking is bad. Our recommendation is that you catch the Aquabus on the north side of False Creek and ride it to the island and back.
Location/Distance from Hotel: To Aquabus dock 11 minutes by car, 30 minute walk Website: https://theaquabus.com/
Activity: Walk Stanley Park and the Stanley Park Sea Wall
Description: Stanley Park is the crown jewel of Greater Vancouver. 1,000 acres of trails, activities and places to see. The Sea Wall allows you to walk the circumference of the park. Take a look at the Stanley Park website to see what appeals to you. A beautiful way to experience Vancouver’s waterfront.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 2.4 km / 8 minute drive / 29 minute walk Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park-seawall.aspx
Activity: Capilano Suspension Bridge
Description: Located in North Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge is strung across a deep gorge and river. The bridge and other activities located in a northwest forest are popular with tourists.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 3735 Capilano Road, North Vancouver Website: https://www.capbridge.com/
Activity: Walk Gastown and Vancouver’s Chinatown
Description: To the east of the Pan Pacific and very walkable are Vancouver’s Gastown neighborhood, the oldest original section of the City. This gives you a flavour of Vancouver’s development and also provides you with several stores, bars and eating establishments to experience. Adjacent and to the south of Gastown is Vancouver’s historic Chinatown – once second largest in North America only to San Francisco’s at the time. A traditional Chinatown. Highlights are the Sun Yet Sen Gardens and the new Chinese Canadian Museum. Note that both Gastown and Chinatown are areas under social changes. Between them is Vancouver’s downtown eastside (with Hastings Street being the main arterial). This is ground zero for Vancouver’s most challenging neighborhood. Caution is advised when you tour or walk through these areas.
Location/Distance from Hotel: Gastown – 4 minute drive, 11 minute walk and Chinatown – 6 minute drive, 16 minute walk
Name: Seabus to Shipyards in North Vancouver
Description: Vancouver’s unique Seabus operation is an extension of the region’s transportation system. The Seabus terminal is located just east of the hotel, and the Seabus ride across Burrard Inlet takes about 12 minutes. When you dock on the Northshore, you are in North Vancouver. You can walk and explore the Lonsdale Quay, a Public Market, and then walk over to the newer Shipyards District with lots of shops and places to eat and drink. This is the revitalized area which once housed western Canada’s primary ship building industry. You will still get a sense of British Columbia’ maritime heritage here, as well as stunning views across the inlet overlooking downtown Vancouver and the Pan Pacific Hotel.
Location/Distance from Hotel: 4 minute drive, 8 minute walk Website: https://www.translink.ca/schedules-and-maps/seabus
Name: Whistler
Description: Whistler is about a 90+ minute drive north of the Pan Pacific Hotel (assuming no traffic incidents or road construction.) Whistler was the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. It is regarded as one of the premier ski destinations in the world. It is also increasing a four seasons location with golf and outdoor activities in the spring and summer months. There are lots to see and do in Whistler Village and many places to eat and drink. Amongst the highlights are two great First Nations galleries, namely the Audain Gallery (https://audainartmuseum.com/) and the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (https://slcc.ca/) Whistler is a nice place to spend a day or overnight in. The Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler is stunning, with a combination of ocean and mountain views the entire drive. Vehicle transportation is an option. So too are float planes which depart Vancouver and land just outside Whistler Village. (Check the Harbour Air website at https://harbourair.com/
Location/Distance from Hotel: 1 hour, 46 minute drive
Name: Victoria
Description: Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the 43rd largest island in the world. About 16% of British Columbia’s population of 5.44 million live on Vancouver Island, most in the southern region.
Victoria is also the capital of British Columbia and is “old and historic” by Canadian standards. Victoria has a lot of interesting places to see, including the Empress Hotel (afternoon tea) and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Victoria can also be a starting point for any exploration of Vancouver Island. To explore Vancouver Island by car, you would take a BC Ferry from Tsawwassen (52 minute drive from the hotel) to travel to southern Vancouver Island and/or Horseshoe Bay to travel to Nanaimo and the mid and north section of the island (32 minute drive from hotel.) BC Ferries are a great way to experience some of British Columbia’s most beautiful waterways and scenery. Two other ways to travel from the Pan Pacific Hotel directly to Victoria are by Harbour Air’s float plane which literally lands in Victoria Harbour, a 5 – 10 minute walk to the Empress Hotel and Parliament Buildings or Vancouver’s Helijet helicopter service which flies from Vancouver harbour (by the Pan Pacific) directly to Victoria harbour.
Websites:
- Tourism Victoria https://www.tourismvictoria.com/
- B.C. Ferries https://www.bcferries.com/
- Harbour Air https://harbourair.com/
- Helijet https://helijet.com/
