The National Day for Truth & Reconciliation is coming up at the end of the month, and we want to spotlight some amazing Indigenous-led culinary options in the Vancouver area. After all, the stomach can be a wonderful vehicle for acquiring knowledge in addition to new tastes!

According to the Government of Canada website, September 30th, 2022 marks the second National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which coincides with Orange Shirt Day to recognize the “tragic legacy of residential schools,” as well as honour the missing children and their families, and the survivors of these institutions.

Folks can learn more about Indigenous history in Canada and current reconciliation efforts here, as well as through the following Indigenous-led organizations:

In terms of learning more about BC’s diverse Indigenous food scene, Indigenous Tourism BC has several highlighted culinary tours on its website. So, grab a fork and get ready to sample delicious bannock (pan-fried flatbread) and other Indigenous staples!

Mr. Bannock

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by MrBannockFoodtm (@mrbannockfood)

We’re starting with Vancouver’s first-ever Indigenous food truck, Mr. Bannock. Chef Paul Natrall of the Squamish Nation uses traditional cooking methods like smoking clay and stone baking to produce delicious bannock tacos, sandwiches, and even waffles.

Where: 433 West 1st Street, North Vancouver

Recent Posts:
A huge arts & culture festival is coming to Vancouver’s Eastside next month 
Check out this massive haunted house with evil clowns in Surrey this fall 

Thunderbird Cafe

The Thunderbird Cafe is located inside the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, and offers guests a variety of First Nations dishes with a modern twist. Their menu boasts a selection of affordable daily specials like salmon chowder and chocolate bannock mini donuts. Oh, and you don’t have to purchase admission to the museum to stop by the cafe!

Cafe patrons can also take advantage of the cultural centre’s many group tours ($20 per ticket), which include a Holistic Tour & Indigenous Tea Offering, a new Paddling Through the Nations canoe tour, and their iconic What We Treasure tour, which was listed as a Canadian Signature Experience.

Where: 4584 Blackcomb Way

Salmon N’ Bannock Bistro

Salmon N’ Bannock on West Broadway is the city’s only Indigenous-owned and operated restaurant. The team uses traditional ingredients to create authentic flavours in each dish – ranging from smoked salmon burgers to Pemmican Mousse (smoked & dried bison, cream cheese, sage, and blueberries). They also have gluten-free bannock for folks with food allergies.

Where: 7-1128 West Broadway

Finally, if you find yourself on the Island for a quick fall getaway, you’ll definitely want to try Kitchens of Distinction in Victoria. Award-winning Cree-Métis Private Chef creates globally-inspired Indigenous eats.

For even more options across BC, check out the full list of culinary experiences courtesy of Indigenous Tourism BC.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
Read articles