If you’re constantly on the run and can’t find anything to eat during your lunch break, look no further.
We have compiled five of the best spots for you to grab a great meal when you’re in a pinch. Whether you’re on your break, heading to work or just want something on the go, we have a variety of spots that are convenient, quick and delicious.
1. Disco Cheetah
This Korean Grill can be found over in the Davie Village and offers some great bowls and items that will fill you right up, and leave you with plenty for later.
This spot started off as a food truck but now has a full time location in one of downtown’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. The food truck can still be found around town. Between Monday and Friday, they are parked over at Robson Square from 11 am – 2 pm. On the weekends, you can find the colourful truck at different farmers markets and events around the city.
The process is simple here.
Start with a base: rice, salad, fries or a wrap (all have different vegetable toppings). Then choose a protein: fried chicken, bulgogi beef, tofu, falafel, spicy pork. And then choose from a wide variety of sauces.
It’s all prepared right in front of you from the moment you order and comes out quick and hot.
What to order: Custom bowl or wrap made to your liking. Or if you want something a little more snack-ish, try the Korean fried chicken bites.
Address: 1183 Davie Street, Vancouver
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2. Mr. Shawarma
An icon in the Vancouver food truck scene, Mr.Shawarma serves delicious middle eastern food that’s quick and convenient.
With three trucks in the downtown area, you can find them at Robson Square, outside of Granville station and outside of Burrard station.
Many people are surprised to learn this, but this middle eastern truck is renowned for their Philly cheesesteaks. You can choose from a variety of different meats and cheeses but their most popular is the classic cheddar cheesesteak.
If you’re looking for something more traditional, they have wraps and bowls with all sorts of protein options that are halal and vegan. So there’s something for everyone!
The food is prepared to order but comes out quickly and is all very reasonable in price.
What to order: Original cheddar cheesesteak: comes with grilled onions and peppers. If you’re feeling something more middle eastern, get one of their grilled pita wraps with whatever protein you’d like, they’re great for eating on the go.
Address:
-800 Robson Street
-680 Granville Street
-655 Burrard Street
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3. Angus T Bakery & Cafe
I’ve never been to France, but Angus T brings the suave delicious flavours of the Parisian streets to Vancouver’s Yaletown area.
Inspired by French pastries and croissants, Angus T will have you hooked before you even step foot in the door. The smell of their delicious pastries is worth checking out.
As soon as you walk in, you’ll see a great big glass case filled with all sorts of flakey, ooey-gooey goodness. The cinnamon buns light up the room but it’s the croissants that you’ll want to try first.
There is a wide variety of sweet and savoury options but their most popular item is the double baked almond croissant. Don’t feel guilty about having this for breakfast, it’s delicious and filling.
If you don’t have a sweet tooth like me, there are a number of savoury options to choose from, such as the popular ham and gruyere cheese croissant.
What to order: Double baked almond croissant or the ham and gruyere cheese croissant.
Address: 1036 Mainland Street, Vancouver
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4. New Town Bakery
Located in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Chinatown area, New Town Bakery has been a staple of Chinese cuisine in the city.
If you have the time, stop in for their delicious dim sum-style food, or take a gander around their glorious case full of incredible Chinese and Filipino-style baked goods.
This place is a childhood favourite of mine and I’m always brought back to the memories of my mother taking me here for a quick lunch. But even if it’s your first time here, I’m sure you’ll want to come back.
While I could spend all day rambling about the delicious pastries they serve, you cannot overlook the incredible steamed buns. It’s always so much fun seeing them come out steaming hot.
Everything here is priced very fairly and it’s worth grabbing a few items on your way out. I always go for the steamed BBQ pork bun with an egg tart but other bun fillings include chicken, red bean and custard.
If you’re interested in some of the baked buns, you can grab a savoury bun or a sweet one, you can’t go wrong with any of them.
What to order: Steamed BBQ pork bun, steamed chicken bun, egg tart, pineapple bun
Address: 148 East Pender Street, Vancouver
5. The Poke Guy
Regarded as some of the best poke in the city, The Poke Guy is fast, convenient and packed full of flavour. Just a few minutes walk from Granville and Waterfront Station, they offer a variety of options that will quench everyone’s cravings.
You can build your own bowl and make it exactly to your liking, or choose from one of their set menu options which all have a unique identity and flavour. The classic fuego offers a great balance of freshness, spice and layers of flavour and texture.
It takes only moments for them to prepare and is a great option if you’re in a rush to get back to the office. If you’ve got a couple extra minutes on your hands, try the hot plates that offer delicious Hawaiian meats with rice and more of those delicious vegetables.
The staff here are very friendly and will help you find just what you’re looking for. No matter what you get, I promise you’ll have plenty left over for later. Most of the poke options are gluten free and lots are vegan friendly.
What to order: Classic Fuego comes with: albacore tuna, Atlantic salmon, spicy mayo and many different toppings. If you have some time to wait, try the Huli Huli chicken which comes with: a chicken leg, rice, sweet corn and chili pineapple.
Address: 420 Richards Street, Vancouver
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These are just a handful of great spots to grab a quick meal in the Downtown area. For more great eats, check out our list of the best restaurants in Downtown Vancouver.
This piece was made possible thanks to Ryan Bailey