While we are well aware there are some incredible bars in Gastown (check out the Best Bars in Gastown), here is my list of the 10 best RESTAURANTS in Gastown! Even some of the local chains appear cooler in Gastown when laid out next to the cobblestone and dimly lit gas lamps.
Pourhouse – Best Burger in the City
Located off of Water Steet, Pourhouse boasts of the best burgers in Vancouver. Come early to grab a seat near the window for good people-watching and check-out their live music schedule. As one of the best restaurants in Gastown, it comes with a higher price tag. This is a great date night spot, a place to bring family in town, or hit up a post-work happy hour with colleagues.
Nuba – Lebanese Eats with Underground, Cool Vibe
Nuba has several locations in Vancouver, but the Gastown location takes the cake. Located on a corner intersection, you walk down the stairs and feel transported into an underground gem. Once the sunsets and the lighting dims, there is gorgeous mood-lighting. I recommend going with a group and ordering one of the platters to share – the food here is delicious and healthy! Win-win!
Gringo – Hidden Late Night Mexican
Hidden down Blood Alley (you’ll miss it if you don’t check the alley close enough), Gringo exists. This funky and quirky Mexican joint serves up delicious tacos and margs all night long. Seats are first come, first come but you’ll be treated like a friend with anyone you interact with or sit near. This is definitely a local favorite – especially on the weekends.
Steamworks – Bustling Brewpub
While Streamworks is famous for their delicious beer, it actually makes the list for best restaurant in Gastown! Why? Well, not only is the menu surprisingly really good (or maybe I’ve always had too much beer before eating), but the vibe and views are also superb. Whether you’re sitting outdoors on the patio, downstairs near the window overlooking the harbor and mountains (with pool tables close by for play), or the main level – all offer a bit of a different atmosphere. All fun.
Chambar – Come for Food, Stay for Ambience
Chambar definitely belongs on the list of best restaurants in Gastown. This Belgian restaurants has a gorgeous, green patio and inside is just as immaculate. Be sure to check out the Events page as there are often unique dinner and drink pairing nights. Chambar almost always has a crowd, so recommendations are highly encouraged.
MeeT – Vegan Reimagined
If you are vegan (which you very likely could be living or visiting Vancouver), one of the best restaurants in Gastown for you is MeeT. This is another local chain, but the Gastown location is my favorite. Hidden slightly off the main drag of Water Street, you’ll find the smaller restaurant. The creative menu is fully vegan – some dishes you’d never expect to be! I typically don’t eat vegan, but have never been disappointed by a meal here. A bonus – ONLY at the Gastown location can you enjoy a brunch offering every day!
PiDGiN – French-Asian Fusion
Another incredible restaurant in Gastown is PiDGin. East meets West at this creative Asian-fusion restaurant. The plating is gorgeous – the presentation sometimes looks too good to eat. But dive in and you won’t be disappointed. They have an ever-changing prix-fixe menu in addition to their outstanding standard dinner menu. Grab a sake flight while you’re here as well.
Salt Tasting Room – Charcuterie Galore
Salt Tasting Room is a fun and delicious experience in the heart of Gastown. This restaurant is one of a kind in the city, focused on artisanal cheese, cured meats, and wine. Pick out which cheese and meats you want and the staff eagerly pairs suitable wine with your selection. Um…awesome much?!
Six Acres – Beer and Food
For a cheeky beer and meal, head to Six Acres for a cozy meal and beverage. This English bar gets packed for soccer games (for British expats this likely makes this THE #1 best restaurant in Gastown) and on a sunny day patrons rush to get the few seats out front in the sun. A long communal table inside makes it great for hosting a fun night out with friends.
LOCAL – Incredible People-Watching Patio
I’m guilty of several Vancouver chains on here – but so many of their best locations are in Gastown! The LOCAL is another popular restaurant/watering hole. The setting is chill during the day with diners shuffling inside and pouring out onto the patio. However, by night this is a hotspot – the music turns up and the crowd grows.
I hope you get to try out one, some, or all of these best restaurants in Gastown, Vancouver. Vancouver is a foodie haven, so bring a full stomach and leave with a full heart.
Check out my additional guides for best restaurants in other Vancouver neighborhoods:
Or if you’d like to check out my other Vancouver-related content, you may enjoy these posts: