We hope you’re hungry, Vancouver, because there are plenty of new additions to the city’s culinary scene worth checking out this month, and even more to look forward to in the coming weeks. From a new French bistro to Vegas-inspired donuts, here are 11 new restaurants and cafes to keep an eye out for in Metro Vancouver.
Now open
Merèon
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Inspired by the iconic cafe culture throughout France, Merèon combines the best of French bistros with tasty brunch dishes – offering diners a range of time-honoured recipes. This includes Monsieur, Madame, and Forestièr Croque sandwiches, Quiche du Jour, Eggs en Cocotte, French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, and Signature Socca – to name a few.
Where: 1479 Clyde Avenue, West Vancouver
Wayback Brewing Co.
Looking for a new spot for craft beer in Surrey? Way Back Brewing opened back in December, and if you love a spot with a retro vibe, you’ll definitely want to check it out. With a 70’s-inspired taproom, roller skate memorabilia, and craft pizza coming soon – there’s something for everyone here.
Where: 116 – 15063 54A, Surrey
Merci Boulangerie – Commercial Drive
For a little taste of Paris, head to Merci Boulangerie, which already operates on Powell Street and farmers’ markets across the city. And now, you’ll be able to check out the French patisserie on Commercial Drive. Here, you’ll find plenty of tempting cinnamon buns, breads, croissants, seasonal danishes, and much more.
Where: 2879 Commercial Drive
Cowdog Coffee
While technically a pop-up, it looks like this quirky, delicious coffee shop now has a permanent home at 2040 Quebec Street on Sundays – where Dear Gus Snack Bar operates during the rest of the week. So if you’re craving a Sunday morning walk, coffee, and fresh pastry, you know where to head!
Where: 2040 Quebec Street
Coming soon
Meo
Brought together by the teams of award-winning restaurants Bao Bei and Michelin-starred Kissa Tanto is a new neighbourhood bar concept called ‘Meo,’ which will lean on ’70s-inspired nostalgia and bold flavours to create a cozy dining experience.
When: TBA this February
Where: 265 East Pender Street
Marugame Udon
This spot for authentic Sanuki udon is set to open downtown this winter, drawing on centuries-old traditions in the Kagawa Prefecture in Japan. In addition to hand-crafted udon bowls and tempura, diners will be able to watch as their food is being made from a live kitchen.
When: Saturday, February 24th
Where: 589 Beatty Street
Vegas Donuts
Retro vibes meet sweet treats at this Vegas-inspired donut shop. As the name suggests, Vegas Donuts will soon serve up delicious donuts inspired by ’60s in Las Vegas. The baby blue and pink donut shop will whisk you back in time to “an era filled with peace, love, and delicious treats,” according to its website.
When: TBA this winter
Where: 4003 Knight Street
Osteria Elio Volpe
Originally anticipated for winter 2023, Osteria Elio Volpe is the newest venture of Banda Volpi – the team behind many popular Italian eateries across the city, including Osteria Savio Volpe, Caffè La Tana, and Pepino’s Spaghetti House. While its opening has been delayed to early winter 2024, we’re betting that every savoury bite is worth the wait.
When: Winter 2024
Where: 540 West 17th Avenue
Casa Molina
If you love Spanish tapas and dishes, get ready for a new dining concept that will steal your heart. Chef Javier Blanc of Paella Guys (AKA the chef behind the second-best paella in the world) is starting a new culinary venture in Mount Pleasant, in the spot formerly occupied by Mangia Cucina & Bar. While nothing can take its place, if there’s one chef who can bring the iconic red heritage house a new life, it’s Chef Javier Blanc.
The new spot for Spanish fare will open within the final week of February, according to a past Instagram story.
When: February 2024
Where: 2211 Manitoba Street
Gordon Ramsay Steak
Following the opening of Canada’s first Gordon Ramsay Burger dining concept is Gordon Ramsay Steak, a second dining experience dedicated to the notorious chef and TV personality. In early 2024, guests at the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond can enjoy impeccable food in an elegant atmosphere, indulging in dishes that show off the chef’s signature flair – from succulent steaks to his famous Beef Wellington.
When: Winter 2024
Where: 8811 River Road, Richmond
Fogo de Chão
Internationally renowned Fogo de Chão from Brazil is expanding to Canada, and its first location in the country will be situated at Vancouver’s historic Canada Post building. For those who aren’t familiar, Fogo serves up everything from their signature steak cuts to classic seafood plates, to weekend brunch, and Vancouverites can look forward to dining there in April of 2024.
When: April 2024
Where: 658 Homer Street
And that’s a wrap on some tasty new Metro Vancouver restaurants, bars, & cafes. Cheers!
