This year has been a rough one for Vancouver’s food scene.
Longtime mom-and-pop spots and iconic restaurants that stood for decades have now closed their doors.
Some owners chose retirement, while others were forced out by redevelopment or crushing lease hikes.
Here’s a look back at the OG spots we’ve sadly lost in 2025:
1. Penang Bistro
After 21 years of serving Malaysian favourites like char kway teow and beef rendang, Penang Bistro closed on July 31.
Known for its flaky roti canai and colourful Southeast Asian desserts, this Fraser Street gem was a comfort food staple.
2. Pizzeria Farina
Main Street’s iconic red door closed on May 31 after 13 years of Neapolitan-style pizzas. Fans will remember their Valentine’s Day heart-shaped pies and minimalist, cozy space.
3. Bob Likes Thai Food
After over a decade on Main Street, Bob Likes Thai Food closed. However, another Thai spot has recently taken over, which brings back the Bob’s Fish n Chips!
4. Ma Dang Goul
Vancouver’s cozy Korean haven, Ma Dang Goul, has bid adieu after a delicious 30-year stint in the West End.
Known for soulful classics like their $12 kalguksu, this beloved eatery couldn’t withstand recent economic hurdles, leaving locals with fond memories of noodle-filled joy.
It has been replaced by Handson Steak & Frites.
5. Solly’s Bagels W Broadway
After 30 years, Solly’s closed its West Broadway shop due to rising costs. Their eggels, lox sandwiches, and cinnamon buns live on at other locations.
6. Yandoux Patisserie
Olympic Village said goodbye to Yandoux after seven years as the patisserie moved operations to Richmond. Known for French pastries with Asian twists, it was a dessert destination.
It has been replaced by Mon Paris.
7. McKim Wonton Mein Saga
Kingsway’s late-night noodle favourite closed after 15 years when the owner retired to spend time with family.
It has been replaced by La Chuoi.
- Address
- 2565 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC
8. Zefferelli’s Spaghetti Joint
After 36 years above Robson Street, Zefferelli’s closed in May. Diners will miss its hearty pastas and charming upstairs escape.
9. Tinseltown Starbucks
After more than 16 years, the Starbucks at Tinseltown, Vancouver’s quirkiest mall, has closed its doors for good. Despite its location in a hilariously odd setting of eclectic shops and questionable mall vibes, what finally ended its long run wasn’t local mischief but simply an expired lease.
10. Pizzeria Barbarella
After 13 years in Mount Pleasant, Pizzeria Barbarella shut down in March. Their Margherita and honey-drizzled Miele were local legends.
11. New India Buffet
West Broadway’s buffet giant closed after 23 years, making way for a hotel development. Its 70+ dish spread was unmatched in the city.
12. Jiu Jiang Japanese Restaurant
Kerrisdale lost this no-frills sushi spot after eight years. Regulars loved its sashimi sets and fair prices served with genuine warmth.
13. Cottage Deli
After 25 years in Gastown, Cottage Deli closed due to mall redevelopment. Famous for soups, Reubens, and harbour views, it was a true hidden gem.
14. Cartems Donuts
Cartems closed all locations on February 14 after 14 years. Known for creative flavours, vegan options, and those iconic red boxes, it changed the city’s donut game.
Cream Pony will be taking over the Main Street unit.
15. Mahony’s Tavern Stamps Landing
This False Creek spot wrapped up its decade-long run in 2025. Its patio sunsets and sports nights will be missed as it transforms into a new concept.
Bae Side has taken over the unit.
16. Ming Fong Fast Food
After more than 20 years in Chinatown Plaza’s hidden food court, this Cantonese stall closed. Huge portions, affordable prices, and old-school charm made it a downtown treasure.
17. Aphrodite’s Organic Café
This Kitsilano brunch favourite closed on February 2 after more than 20 years. Its farm-to-table brunches and community focus made it a local institution.
18. Ba Le Deli & Bakery Kingsway
After 37 years, Ba Le’s original Kingsway shop closed for redevelopment in June. Fans flocked for final banh mi and a farewell block party.
Ofcourse you can still find Ba Le at their other locations!
These closures mark the end of an era for Vancouver’s dining scene.
While the city continues to welcome new spots, the loss of these longtime favourites is felt deeply by those who grew up with them, celebrated milestones there, or simply dropped in for a comforting meal.
