Whether you’re just visiting Vancouver or a long-time local, Granville Island is no doubt a popular destination when the good weather gods bless the city.
After all, who can resist amazing water views, artsy shops, and good noms all in one spot? Not many people.
And when it comes to good noms, we’ve compiled the 13 best Granville Island restaurants to dine at and what to order at each below. Just for you.
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1. Vancouver Fish Company
Vancouver Fish Company stands out as an icon inspired by the stunning waterside locale. With all-day dining and a tempting Happy Hour, it’s the perfect spot for a gathering of friends, family, or a romantic date night.
For an unforgettable culinary experience, consider trying the award-winning Fish & Chips—this spot lives up to its reputation.
Unlike other places, the fish here is perfectly fried, boasting a light batter that allows the flavours to shine. Partnered with stellar fries, this meal is a game-changer that will have you reminiscing.
If you’re a fellow shellfish enthusiast, explore enticing options like the Scallops or Lobster. Alternatively, the sought-after Surf ‘N’ Turf offers the best of both worlds.
To cap off your visit, my best advice is to finish with a specialty Irish Coffee, a Rum Chata Latte, or the always divine Espresso Martini.
What to order: Fish & Chips, Sangria, Seafood Platter, Irish Coffee, Rum Chata Latte, Espresso Martini, Maple Walnut Prawns
Address: 1517 Anderson St, Vancouver, BC
2. Alimentaria Mexicana
Not many places that big emphasis on the stories their food tells or the source of the ingredients. This casual – yet deliberate – Mexican spot makes both of these things happen, which makes it a refreshing experience for all those who walk in.
From their cocktail straw umbrellas down to the colorfully painted walls and the scrumptious dishes, Alimentaria Mexicana is all about Mexico and fun. Add that to the patterned dress walls of lively colors and the ambivalent lighting, and you’ve got the full-on Mexican dream!
Best believe that their food is just as good as their interior! Their Churros are just pure delight. It’s homemade and the sweetness of the chocolate plus the taste of the bread is mouthwatering.
Their Halloumi & Grilled Cactus is the bomb and missing this means you’re missing out on A LOT. The flavours, the texture, it just leaves you with a bang. The green nopal leaves cooked in salsa plus the chunky and rich cheese? I couldn’t ask for anything more!
If you’re still hungry for more, the Carne Asada Con Queso demands attention. Packed with succulent carne asada, the dish takes indulgence to new heights with its generous layers of rich and flavourful cheese.
What to order: Churros, Halloumi & Grilled Cactus, Carne Asada Con Queso, Verde
Address: 1596 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC
3. The Sandbar
Whether you’re looking for a great lunch or dinner option while you’re visiting Granville Island, The Sandbar comes highly recommended by both locals and visitors alike.
Set right beside the water and offering stunning views from their patio, and equally good ones from their classy nautical themed interior, this is one restaurant you don’t want to miss out on experiencing.
The Sandbar has a great menu that has separate seafood, vegan, and gluten-free options. Enjoy a taste of some Dungeness Crab Cakes, or yummy Har Gow for starters, go for the Wok Mussels, or The Sandbar Tower, which is a fresh and chilled seafood feast.
Pair your meal with some wine or cocktails, or even beer from the tap.
What to order: Dungeness Crab Cakes, Har Gow, Wok Mussels, The Sandbar Tower
Address: 1535 Johnston Street, Creekhouse #102, Vancouver, BC
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4. Afghan Horsemen
Afghan Horseman is the first Afghanistan restaurant in Canada and has been operating since 1974. You can tell that the vibe and ambiance of Afghanistan culture is truly alive in their interior.
The different colourful lights, the artistic and cultural patterns, and the large paintings truly make for an authentic ambiance.
Get their Kebab Platter Delight, it has a bit of everything! It’s presented well and has bursting flavors of spices that you will love. After this platter, you’re going to have a full stomach and full of appreciation for Afghanistan cuisine!
Also give their Pakawra a try.It has the best texture with the perfect crunch and the Chaka dip gives it the extra kick it needs!
Another appetizer you have to get is their Mantu. It’s basically an Afghanistan dumpling and they taste like heaven in the mouth. The herbs and spices linger to the taste, making it incredibly savory!
Their Lamb Shoulder Chop is nothing but excellence on a plate. Perfectly cooked plus the taste has that phenomenal fall-off-the-bone deliciousness. It’s definitely not a flavor you taste everywhere, it’s going to make you anticipate more and more.
What to order: Kebab Platter, Pakawra, Mantu, Lamb Shoulder
Address: 1833 Anderson St #202, Vancouver, BC
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5. Lee’s Donuts
If you’re strolling along Granville Island’s Public Market and see a long line, you’re probably heading towards Lee’s Donuts. So, queue in and get ready for an amazing sweet treat in the form of classic and melt-in-your-mouth donuts made fresh.
The menu is extensive and packed with sweet temptations. I recommend you try the Blueberry Filled, a Chocolate Cake Donut, or their famous Maple Iced Rings.
Whatever you choose here will take you to donut heaven, so go ahead, indulge your sweet tooth, and don’t forget to take a box home!
What to order: Blueberry Filled, Chocolate Cake Donut, Maple Iced Rings
Address: Granville Island Public Market 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
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6. Dockside Restaurant
Go fancy and head to Dockside Restaurant on Granville Island for a memorable dining experience. Located right by the water, this spot offers gorgeous views of the harbour, classy atmosphere, and food that is casually classic, yet perfection on a plate.
Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, Dockside Restaurant has you covered. For breakfast, consider trying either The Toast or the rich and tangy Classic Benny.
If you’re there for lunch, you can never go wrong with the Oyster Mushroom Calamari and Dry-Aged Beef Burger.
The organic oyster calamari, dipped in tempura batter, results in a crispy yet healthy delight.
On the flip side, the Dry-Aged Beef Burger is a juicy, aged beef masterpiece grilled to perfection, accompanied by delicious fries.
For an upscale dinner experience, get the Cioppino for a seafood bonanza, or if you’re on a date, the 22oz AAA Rib Steak For Two is a top recommendation.
What to order: The Toast, The Classic Benny, Oyster Mushroom Calamari, Dry-aged Beef Burger, Cioppino. 22oz AAA Rib Steak For Two
Address: 1253 Johnston Street, Vancouver B.C
7. Chau Veggie Express
For a unique and delightful Vietnamese vegan experience, the one place you need to stop at in Granville’s Public Market is Chau Veggie Express. This is an adorable and cute spot to stop by for quick service, great variety, and a wholesome and delicious lunch.
Try their signature Golden Temple Soup, a light turmeric coconut curry broth with seasonal veggies, organic tofu, beancurd, mushrooms, taro, yam, kale and herbs. The dish is served with your choice of quinoa, wild rice or rice noodles.
The Nonla Crispy Rolls are also a must-try, wrapped in rice paper and stuffed with a, kale, mung beans, taro, organic tofu, garlic, shallots, sesame, vegetable filling, and lemon vegan “fish” sauce.
What to order: Golden Temple Soup, Nonla Crispy Rolls
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8. Popina Canteen
Set right on the water’s edge, this popular and delightful eatery doesn’t just boast stunning views, but also an array of mouth-watering items all made from scratch.
Feeling hungry? The 8oz Double Cheeseburger is a game-changer with its secret sauce. And if you’re into something crispy and juicy, the Crispy Free Run Chicken Sandwich is your go-to treat.
Don’t forget to leave a little space for their special Puffcream—it’s dessert magic with lots of flavours and toppings to choose from. Trust me, it’s the sweet ending you didn’t know you needed.
What to order: 8oz Double Cheeseburger, Crispy Free Run Chicken Sandwich, Puffcream
Location: Ferry Dock Granville Island, Vancouver, BC
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9. The Keg Steakhouse
No eatery list is complete without the mention of good steakhouse, and this one wouldn’t be either if we didn’t talk about The Keg Steakhouse & Bar. This spot is spacious yet cozy, with booths and great low lighting.
There is an air of comfort and warmth, and the need to feast on good solid food. Dine in and you won’t be disappointed.
With an extensive menu at The Keg, here’s my best advice: kick off with a couple of appetizers, such as the Scallops and Bacon or the heartwarming French Onion Soup.
As for the main course, the options are abundant. If steak is on your mind, go for the Prime Rib or try getting the Peppercorn New York—a 12oz crusted striploin with a whisky sauce that makes the dish sing.
Elevate your steak experience by adding Grilled Jumbo Shrimp or an Atlantic Lobster Tail—it’s the secret to making your meal extra special.
And to end off your meal, get yourself a slice of their Billy Miner Pie. You won’t regret it.
Tip: The Keg has a great Kids Menu if you’re dining with your little ones.
What to order: Scallops and Bacon, French Onion Soup, Prime Rib, Peppercorn New York, Grilled Jumbo Shrimp, Atlantic Lobster Tail, Billy Miner Pie
Address: 1499 Anderson Street, Vancouver, BC
10. Sen Pad Thai
Yes, you read that right! Delicious stir-fried Pad Thai noodles just bursting with flavour and waiting for you to dig in. When you’re in Graville’s Public Market and craving some Thai food, Sen Pad Thai is the place to stop and treat yourself to mind-blowing savory goodness.
If you’re a meat lover, go for the Pad Siew Beef, or for a seafood option try the Prawn Pad Thai. Another popular dish on the menu is the Crispy Pork with Rice, which is seriously just amazing.
For a lighter snack, opt for some Crispy Chicken Wings, or a Fried Cauliflower Salad. Wash it all down with some cool Thai Iced Tea, or grab your choice of some Asian Soda.
What to order: Pad Siew Beef, Prawn Pad Thai, Crispy Pork with Rice, Crispy Chicken Wings, Fried Cauliflower Salad, Thai Iced Tea, Asian Soda
Address: 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
11. Siegal’s Bagels
If you get to Granville Island’s Public Market early, and are looking for good breakfast options, then head to Siegel’s Bagels for a boost of morning energy. They serve a wide array of freshly baked bagels in a variety of flavours, great breakfast sandwiches, as well as regular sandwich options, and deli items.
Try their signature Big Breakfast Bagel that comes packed with cream cheese, smoked meat, lettuce, tomato, green pepper, red onion, egg and cheddar. The toasted Bagel with salami and egg is also delicious, or you can opt for a non-breakfast Turkey Breast, and Tuna Salad.
For something less fancy but equally yummy, go for a Cinnamon Bun, or choose your own toppings from butter, cream cheese, peanut butter and more.
Protip: Be sure to check their list of gorgeous Cream Cheese flavours for your bagel.
What to order: Big Breakfast Bagel, Turkey Breast,Tuna Salad, Cinnamon Bun
Address: 1689 Johnston St #22, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9
12. Blue Hat Bistro
Blue Hat Bistro is a fun and stylish bar/bistro located at Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts in Granville. This rare gem serves gourmet cuisine prepared by budding professionals, and hosts seasonal menus.
Kick off your dining experience with Blue Hat Bistro’s delightful selection of starters. Fresh-shucked Pacific Oysters and Local Farm Greens are highly recommended to set the tone for a memorable meal.
When it comes to the main course, I personally recommend the Pan Roasted Fraser Valley Porchetta, savour the flavours of Fettuccine ‘Aglio e Olio,’ or delight in a sherry-glazed Grilled New York StripLoin.
Don’t forget to conclude your culinary journey with a sweet note. Choose from a scoop of house-made ice cream, a tempting slice of Citrus Cake, or the uniquely delightful Chai-infused Pana Cotta.
What to order: Fresh-shucked Pacific Oysters, Local Farm Greens, Pan Roasted, Fraser Valley Porchetta, Fettuccine ‘Aglio e Olio,’ Grilled New York StripLoin,
Address: 1505 W 2nd Ave #101, Vancouver, BC BC V6H 3Y4
13. Sprig Contemporary Greek Kitchen
Craving Greek food?
Well Sprig inside the Public Market will surely do the trick! This family-operated spot has been around for 18 years, serving incredible Mediterranean food. Sprig is known for its fantastic food made from house-made sauces, great value and really kind staff.
Now, let’s talk about a crowd favorite—their delicious falafel wraps. Trust me; it’s a must-get! Wondering why? Well, they’re not just tasty; they come with an incredible portion of falafels and fresh Greek yogurt that’ll have your taste buds singing in pure contentment.
Don’t stop there! Venture into their menu and try getting the Grilled Calamari which offers a slightly nutty taste that pairs perfectly with either Hummus or Tahini sauce.
What to order: Falafel Wrap, Grilled Calamari, Hummus, Tahini, Grilled Lamb Keftedes, Chicken Souvlaki Wrap
Address: 111-1689 Johnston Street, Vancouver, BC V6H3R9
There you have it for the best restaurants in Granville Island. Since you’re already here, you should know that there’s more to this popular spot than just great eats! Don’t believe it?
Check out our Granville Island Neighbourhood guidebook to let you in on all the deets of drink spots and stores to hit up!
How We Create Our “Best” Lists
All Noms Magazine’s “best” lists are created using multiple factors and signals to help readers find the best restaurants, things to do, and places to stay at. Some of these factors and signs include personal experiences, correspondence with locals, and compiling experiences from review sites.
Each list is also created to be balanced (in terms of price, cuisine type, ambiance, and more) as possible. This means that the lists are not specifically created in ranking order. You should be comfortable picking from any of the spots on the list and generally have a good time. But of course, YMMV (your mileage may vary) and everyone may have different experiences/palates.