Looking for the best food to try in Vancouver, Canada? Last month, I visited Vancouver for a short anniversary trip, and it was my first time exploring the city’s culinary scene. I only had four days to indulge, but I made sure to try as many local food experiences as possible. Whether you’re a fan of Canadian maple, wild salmon, or unique street food, Vancouver offers a delightful array of flavors.
Here’s my list of must-try foods in Vancouver, which will hopefully inspire you on your next visit to Vancouver.
(If you’re a fan of maple syrup and salmon, just like me, you’ll definitely want to save this list!)
1. Maple Cream Cookies – A True Canadian Treat
When it comes to iconic Canadian snacks, you can’t miss maple cream cookies. These traditional cookies, shaped like maple leaves and filled with rich maple cream, are an absolute must-try. You can find them at local markets and shops throughout Vancouver. I enjoyed mine while taking in stunning views of the mountains, the seaplanes taking off, and the ferries docking in the harbor.
Pro tip: Grab a box of these cookies to bring home as a Canadian souvenir – they make the perfect gift!
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2. Maple & Walnut Ice Cream – Best Dessert in Vancouver
If you’re a fan of maple syrup, you have to try maple & walnut ice cream. This classic flavor is a divine combination of sweet, rich maple and crunchy walnuts. I found it at a local ice cream shop while exploring Granville Island, and it was the perfect treat on a warm afternoon.
For the best experience, enjoy this ice cream while strolling through the Granville Island Public Market, which is a food lover’s paradise offering everything from fresh seafood to artisanal pastries.
3. Candied Wild Chinook Salmon – A Vancouver Specialty
When it comes to local seafood, Vancouver’s wild Chinook salmon is legendary. One of my favorite discoveries was candied salmon, a snack that’s a bit like fish jerky, but even more delicious. I found this treat while on a guided tour at the Shipyards in North Vancouver, and I couldn’t stop eating it. The mix of sweet and savory flavors in each bite is unforgettable. If you love seafood, this is a must-try food in Vancouver.
4. Maple Glazed Candied Salmon – My favorite food in Vancouver
Probably the best thing I have eaten in Vancouver. I’m a big fan of salmon, and seeing all the smoked fish stalls at Granville Public Market was like a dream come true. I tried the Maple Glazed Candied Salmon, and it was divine. It’s pretty expensive, but I cherished every single bite. It was a bit smoky, a bit salty, a bit sweet, a perfect mix of maple sweetness and salmon buttery flavors.
5. Nanaimo Bars – A Classic Vancouver Dessert
You can’t talk about desserts in Vancouver without mentioning the iconic Nanaimo Bars. Named after the nearby city of Nanaimo, these no-bake bars consist of three layers: a coconut-graham cracker base, creamy custard, and a smooth chocolate topping. You’ll find them in nearly every coffee shop and bakery in Vancouver, and they make a perfect sweet snack to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.
Looking for the best Nanaimo Bars in Vancouver? Try them at local cafés in Gastown or Kitsilano.
6. Japadog – Vancouver’s Famous Japanese Hot Dog
One of the most unique street foods in Vancouver is Japadog, a fusion of Japanese and Western flavors served from the city’s famous food trucks. The most popular choice is the Terimayo Dog, topped with teriyaki sauce, mayo, and nori (dried seaweed). This fusion of flavors is like nothing else, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore the city’s diverse food scene.
If you’re looking for where to eat street food in Vancouver, keep an eye out for Japadog food trucks, which are scattered throughout the city. I was skeptical initially, but after tasting the Japadog, I sent my husband to get another one. That good it was!
7. Poutine – Canada’s Comfort Food
No list of Canadian foods is complete without poutine. Originally from Quebec, this dish of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy has become a staple across Canada, including Vancouver. I tried several variations, from the classic version to modern twists like poutine with smoked bacon or lobster. If you’re craving comfort food after a long day of exploring the city, poutine is the ultimate choice.
Want to try the best poutine in Vancouver? Head to Gastown or Commercial Drive, where you’ll find plenty of spots serving this Canadian favorite.
Vancouver’s diverse food scene is a reflection of the city’s multiculturalism and its close connection to the Pacific Ocean. From fresh seafood to iconic Canadian desserts, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, make sure to add these foods to your list of what to eat in Vancouver. You won’t be disappointed!
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