Best of Vancity
EAT
Our Top 5 Restaurants of 2009
CinCin Ristorante + Bar
A winding stone staircase leads the way from bustling Robson Street to this celebrated Vancouver dining room. An ingredient-driven, seasonal focus sets the tone for Executive Chef Francois Gagnon’s menu with distinctive dishes embracing the sensibilities of Italy. Outstanding desserts and baked goods by chef patissier Thierry Busset, whom chef Gordon Ramsay recently called ‘the best in the world.’
Map & directions
Chambar
Awarded ‘Best New Restaurant’ in 2004, Chambar is the perfect balance of fine dining without the formalities; the food is exceptional, with a commitment to fresh seasonal produce, Belgian themed with North African influence. Chambar – an unpretentious fling with fine dining.
Map & directions
Quattro on Fourth
Opened to critical acclaim. It scored two prestigious Vancouver Magazine Critics Choice Awards for Best New Restaurant and the coveted Restaurant of the Year. It offers large round tables for gathering as well as secluded nooks for quiet romantic evenings. During summer months, the lush garden patio is a Vancouver favorite.
Map & directions
db Bistro Moderne
The magnificent cuisine of Vancouver’s most exciting new urban restaurant is in the hands of acclaimed Chef-Proprietor Daniel Boulud and Chef de Cuisine Stephane Istel. Set in a casual and contemporary atmosphere, db Bistro promises dining that is as easy-going and welcoming as it is delicious.
Simply Thai
Superb, authentic Thai food. Open kitchen and excellent service. Simply Thai is one of the best Thai Restaurants in Vancouver. Owner/Chef Siriwan Rerksuttisiridach, Bangkok born and raised, apprenticed under Penpan Sittitrai, teacher of Royal Thai Chefs for the Royal Family of Thailand.
Map & directions
DO
Bike, Walk or Roll Around the Seawall
It doesn’t matter how you get around the Seawall, what matters is that you do it! Whether you bike, walk, run or rollerblade, a day spent under bluebird skies drinking in the amazing mountain and ocean vistas offered by this famed piece of urban infrastructure is a day beyond compare. You can rent bikes and rollerblades from numerous shops on Denman St. near Georgia.
Unfortunately, this is one of the more popular choices for anyone looking to capitalize on a nice, sunny days. The Seawall is long and wide, but it still gets mighty busy. Try it early in the morning or just accept the slower pace and enjoy it all with the crowd.
GRAVILLE ISLAND
Granville island is a magical place and a must see for any visitor to Vancouver. It is considered to be part of downtown Vancouver, along with areas such as Gastown, Chinatown, West End, Stanley Park, Canada Place and Robson Street. All are within a mile of the corners of Georgia and Granville streets the centre of the downtown core of Vancouver.
For more information check out:
www.granvilleisland.com
Granville Island Brewing
Tours of Canada’s first modern microbrewery last about a half hour and include a souvenir glass and a taste of four brews. Kids are welcome; they get a taste of root beer. COST: C$8.75. July and Aug., Sun.-Wed. 10-7, Thurs.-Sat. 10-8; Sept.-June, daily 10-7; call for tour times.
www.gib.ca/
Grouse Mountain
Just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, this rugged mountain attracts locals and tourists alike. During the summer, visitors enjoy hiking and mountain biking. In winter, there’s skiing, snow boarding and sleigh rides. The Mountain also features a refuge for endangered wildlife.
www.grousemountain.com/