Vancouver is well known for its seafood.
So it is no surprise that the city has some stellar seafood spots.
As someone born and raised in Vancouver, I’ve had my fair share of time at many in the city.
If you’re short on time, go to Tom Sushi, Oddfish or Joe Fortes. You can’t go wrong at either of them when it comes to seafood.
For you, I’ve cast nets far and wide to find the best seafood spots, and got quite a ‘catch.’
1. Oddfish
A large part of what makes Oddfish such a great spot for seafood is the restaurant’s concept: an ever-changing menu that offers what farmers and the sea provides. Isn’t that cool?
They mix it up, write down what’s available on a cute chalkboard, and let you decide. One thing you can be sure of, is the seafood will be super fresh.
If you’re confused about what to get, try their daily selection of Oysters on ice with delicious mignonette and lemon. One bite and you’ll find yourself falling in love. Who knew Oysters could taste THIS good?
Served with red wine butter, the Fife Sourdough Bread is a must-try for its unique sultry flavour. If you want something simple, their Daily Ceviche with sweet potato and avocado doesn’t disappoint.
Last but not least, the Spaghetti Vongole with clams, wine and garlic is unbelievably good, you absolutely mustn’t miss out on it!
What to order: Oysters, Fife Sourdough Bread, Daily Ceviche, Spaghetti Vongole
Address: 1889 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8
Website | Instagram | Facebook
2. Blue Water Cafe
Blue Water Cafe is a seafood paradise, acclaimed for its fresh offerings from live tanks, a raw bar, and an impressive selection of seafood on ice.
As one of Vancouver’s most prestigious seafood restaurants, it offers an unparalleled dining experience with internationally renowned dishes. The Ahi Tuna Tataki from their raw bar is a highlight, ideal for sushi lovers.
The Yellowfin Tuna and Sablefish are fresh and packed with umami flavours, best enjoyed with a glass of wine from their extensive list or a cocktail from their bar.
What to order: Ahi Tuna Tataki, Yellowfin Tuna, Sablefish, Blue Water Cafe Tower
Address: 1095 Hamilton St, Vancouver, BC V6B 5T4
Website | Instagram | Facebook
3. Okeya Kyujiro
In Yaletown, Okeya Kyujiro stands out as a MICHELIN-starred destination, offering a unique omakase experience. As you enter the dimly lit dining room, the atmosphere echoes a blend of Cirque du Soleil grandeur and traditional kabuki. It’s more than a meal; it’s a celebration of art.
The experience unfolds over two hours with a 25-course journey through Japan’s diverse flavours, including sushi and sashimi like chutoro and otoro tuna.
Watch chefs skillfully prepare an array of seafood, from the slender orange trumpet fish to the Hokkaido hairy crab, making each course a story in itself.
Address: 1038 Mainland Street, Vancouver
4. Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House
Joe Fortes on Robson Street is a Vancouver landmark and seafood institution. Start with Joe’s Classic Caesar and Fresh Oysters, or try their Seafood Linguine with jumbo prawns and scallops. Classics like their famous Fish & Chips are always a hit.
Steeped in history, Joe Fortes promises fresh, flavourful seafood that’ll have you returning for more.
What to order: Joe’s Classic Caesar, Fresh Oysters, Seafood Linguine, Fish & Chips
Address: 777 Thurlow Street, Vancouver, BC
Website | Instagram | Facebook
5. Tom Sushi
Vancouver has some incredible sushi spots, and one favourite that is also on our Best Sushi Restaurants in Vancouver list is Tom Sushi.
Having won the hearts of Vancouverites within a short period, this place is where traditional Japanese flavours meet local, west coast elements, leading to a unique dining experience.
Tom Sushi has quickly carved a name for itself as the sushi bar that carefully considers texture, nuance, and flair in fresh ingredients. And best of all – they offer it all without really breaking the bank.
If you like nigiri, my top picks are: Tobiko w/ Quail Egg, Shima-aji, Hotate, and Toro.
And if you’re one of the lucky people to get your hands on their daily limited donburis— don’t miss the chance and go for the Bluefin or Salmon Donburi.
What to order: Tobiko w/ Quail Egg Nigiri, Shima-aji Nigiri, Hotate Nigiri, Toro Nigiri, Bluefin Donburi, Salmon Amaebi Zuke Donburi
Address: 1175 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1N2
Order Online: Website | Uber Eats
6. Ancora Waterfront Dining
Ancora Waterfront Dining is a gem in Vancouver that everyone loves.
Nestled along the waterfront, this place blends stunning views of Granville Island with exceptional cuisine.
If you’re a fan of sushi rolls, I highly recommend the Spicy Tuna Roll. The combination of fresh tuna, crisp cucumber, asparagus, rocoto aioli, and delicate chilli threads creates a spicy and savoury choice that makes the dish sing.
Going the seafood route is the best way to enjoy the waterfront views. With this in mind, consider getting their Octopus Tagliatelle which offers tender octopus and squid ink pasta, enhanced by sudado sauce and the burst of sweetness from cherry tomatoes.
At the same time, the Cauliflower Steak is an impeccable vegetarian option, boasting perfectly roasted cauliflower with a miso glaze that imparts a savoury depth of flavour.
What to order: Spicy Tuna Roll, Octopus Tagliatelle, Cauliflower Steak, Lobster and Shrimp Risotto, Sablefish
Address:
-Ambleside – 1351 Bellevue Avenue, West Vancouver BC V7T 2P9
-False Creek – 1600 Howe Street, Vancouver BC V6Z 2L9
Website | Instagram | Facebook
7. Sandbar
Dinner and dancing? Then, Sandbar is for you! So, put on your dancing shoes, grab your partner and go.
Enjoy your meal out on their covered and heated patio, with a beautiful view of Yaletown and False Creek, or opt for a cozier table on one of their three dining floors.
Get the most out of your Sandbar experience by getting the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl. This dish strikes the perfect balance between healthy and appetizing, making it a must-try!
If you’re here for the sushi, the Special Hoshi Roll is a true showstopper, special indeed. The light frying technique adds a crunch on the outside, contrasting with the melt-in-your-mouth goodness within.
What to order: Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl, Special Hoshi Roll, Wok Tossed Local Mussels, Seafood Hot Pot
Address: 1535 Johnston St. Creekhouse #102, Granville Island, Vancouver, BC
Website | Instagram | Facebook
8. Pink Peppercorn Seafood House
If you’re looking for a no-fuss spot to enjoy a relaxing and delicious meal, look no further than Pink Peppercorn Seafood House.
This warm and cozy eatery offers diners top-notch service, great ambiance, and wonderfully prepared West Coast style seafood.
This is where you don’t hesitate, and just order yourself a feast! The Calamari is excellent, and the San Francisco Style Mussels are super yummy.
Hands down, the best item on their menu is their signature Salmon Wellington that leaves anyone who has sampled it, raving about its melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
What to order: calamari, San Francisco Style Mussels, Salmon Wellington
Address: 1485 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5N 2R6
9. Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar
At Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar, you’ll find a modern and comfortable ambiance perfect for enjoying some of Vancouver’s finest seafood.
Whether you choose to dine at their oyster bar, patio, or in a private room, the experience is sure to be memorable.
Their Seafood Tower is an absolute delight for seafood lovers, and the Albacore Tuna Tataki is a simple yet impactful dish.
Don’t miss the Hamachi Crudo and Foie Gras – each bite is a celebration of flavour. Boulevard’s exquisite menu makes it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
What to order: Seafood Tower, Albacore Tuna Tataki, Hamachi Crudo, Foie Gras
Address: 845 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2K6
10. Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market
Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market is a versatile dining destination in Vancouver, perfect for any occasion – from casual brunches to romantic dinners. Their menu boasts fresh and flavourful options like Clam Chowder, Umami Bomb, and Mussels & Clams.
The Paella for 2 is a standout, featuring locally sourced scallops, prawns, octopus, mussels, and clams.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take home some fresh shellfish from their market, and check out their website for exciting seafood recipes to try in your kitchen.
What to order: Clam Chowder, Umami Bomb, Mussels & Clams, Paella for 2
Address: 762 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2P2
Website | Instagram | Facebook
When in Vancouver, the options of deliciously fresh seafood are plenty. These are just some of the very best in the city that you won’t be disappointed in trying.
Looking for more food spots? Well, take a look at our picks of the best restaurants in Vancouver!
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.