Photo courtesy of Timbertrain
The neighbourhood is home to more than 65 spots that can take you from your morning espresso to late night cocktails. Bold flavours and intimate spaces set each restaurant apart, and the best way to experience them is all at once.
Coffee shops are a weekday staple and a great place to sit, sip and watch the world go by. Some of Gastown’s independents offer locally roasted beans while others source standout offerings from around the world. While I’m generally on the go, there’s something to be said about slowing down and people watching for while.
Who’s ready for breakfast? If you’ve got time for a hearty meal in the morning, neighbourhood eateries offer twists on the classics. Think poached eggs over smoked pork belly or lobster hash. Add lime mimosas and lavender lattes, and the feast is complete.
Ok, time to take a walk around the block and check out a few of Gastown’s boutiques in order to make room for lunch…
Whether you decide to go gourmet or keep it simple, there are plenty of options to choose from for the midday meal. Sit on a patio and sample house-made gnocci, kimchi fries or farm-to-table favourites.
Photo courtesy of Chill Winston
Ok, now it gets serious. When it comes to the cocktail hour, there’s no better place to be than right here. Every bartender has a signature tipple featuring gin, vodka, tequila and hints of lemon, rosemary, ginger or something else just as fabulous. Whichever way you go, expect flavours that will ease you into the evening.
Keep it rolling right into dinner. Gastown is home to some of the best culinary spots in the city – and few are more than a block’s walk away. Modern, rustic, ethnic or intimate, each one offers a unique experience. If you feel like down-home barbecue, you’ll find it. How about upscale German? There’s that too. And, many of the restaurants pay homage to BC sourced ingredients paired with small-batch wines. The neighbourhood has been voted the best for dining five years running by readers of the Georgia Straight thanks to the diverse array of familiar establishments and epic newcomers.
I’m not done yet. The night calls for dessert and a nightcap. How about a shot of whiskey and vanilla crème brulee – or champagne with coconut lavender macaroons. Sweet and savoury are all on the menu to help wrap it up right.
For more on Eating & Drinking in Gastown, check out these features from our blog.
