This labour day weekend marks the last long weekend of summer. For those who aren’t able to get away, or don’t feel safe to do so; here are 8 restaurants that will have you feeling like you are on a getaway through ornate decor and authentic plates.
Sula Indian
1128 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC
(604) 265-7493 or sulaindianrestaurant.com
Restaurant With its modern take on Indian cuisine and its rich décor, allow the staff at Sula to transport you to a mystical far away land. Dig into sizzling hot plates and seasoned curries kept warm by candlelight, as you sip on strong but fruity tropical drinks. I highly recommend claiming the jungle-esque scene of vines and greenery by the front window or park yourself by their tranquil indoor water feature. For a scene more lively, head back towards the bar for light conversation and a collection of specialty cocktails.
Moltaqa Moroccan
51 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC
(604) 696-4055 moltaqarestaurant.ca
Restaurant Escape the macabre with a trip to Moltaqa. Partake in healthy and flavourful Moroccan cuisine, while taking in a sun-soaked setting surrounded by rich tapestries, ornate pillows, and traditional dishware. Be sure to order one of their eye-catching tagines, featuring slow-cooked meat and vegetables braised in their juices with plenty of imported Moroccan spices. And if you plan your trip right, you can enjoy all of the above and a belly dancing performance.
Kulinarya Filipino Eatery
1134 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC
(604) 255-4155 or kulinarya.ca/main
Best known for their kamayan, an authentic Filipino feast served on banana leaves, spread across an entire table; this traditional eatery has since had to pivot, in order to accommodate the changing hospitality landscape. And although you may not be able to order the same feast in the same way, you can still enjoy their comforting flavours with your hands. Breakfast bilao platters with fresh fruit, sweet meats, and egg on rice. Or the binalot (individual-sized meals) featuring meat and rice with no plates needed.
Potluck Hawker Eatery
3424 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC
(604) 423-9344 or potluckyvr.ca
Marking its birth in these times, the newcomer Poluck Hawker is bringing Vancouverites the exotic flavors of South-East Asian street food. A great treat when getting on to a plane and flying overseas seems impossible and so far away. With its bold colours and a décor that looks like you are eating out of a well-stocked pantry, this fun atmosphere lends itself to familiar flavours. Expect fish sauce marinated wings, roti canai, Indonesian fried rice, Thai curries, and the fragrant laksa with coconut milk.
DiBeppe Restaurante
8 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC
(604) 559-1122 or dibeppe.com
Serving Italian beverages and cuisine in a café/market setting that has you feeling like you are in the Mediterranean. DiBeppe is the casual and cozy spot for thin crust pizza and luscious pasta on West Cordova. Fine wines, briny olives, and pizza by the foot is the Gastown destination’s hallmark.
Old Beijing Roast Duck
1643 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC
(604) 559-8556 or oldbeijingroastduck.com
Roasting up one of Beijing’s most prized dishes, in a setting befitting of such prestige, Old Beijing Roast Duck restaurant does not mince words. What they are known for and what you need to order is right in their name, and splashed across their awning. Inside, with red paper lanterns littering the ceiling and gold embellishments over warm wood accenting the room, you are transported.
Haven Kitchen + Bar
19664 64 Ave #105, Langley Twp, BC
(604) 539-1131 or havenlangley.com
Located in Langley, this hip casual restaurant is worth commuting to. As its name suggests, it offers respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, with neon highlights and tropical flourishes. Be sure to visit the washroom corridor of a technicolor trip. Similarly, their menu boasts a uniquely modern and global approach. Expect tiki cocktails and fan favourite snacks like fried chicken sandwiches, tempura cauliflower, and truffle fries.
Hanoi Old Quarter
5207 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC
(604) 327-6789 or mrredcafe.ca
Restaurant The proprietors of Mr. Red Cafe have taken their success and ran with it, expanding their traditional Vietnamese cuisine into Hanoi Old Quarter on Victoria Drive. Hanoi offers familiar Mr. Red favourites and a brand new menu focused on Hanoian food. Expect the same fresh and colourful plates served to a setting with thatched roofs and finely lined murals for authenticity.
