One of Vancouver’s most distinct neighbourhoods, Gastown is home to a many highly-acclaimed and locally-loved restaurants. Century-old heritage buildings house everything from hole-in-the-wall izakayas, to Michelin-rated fine dining, with a genuine mix of cuisines packed into a few walkable blocks.
Here are some of our team’s favourite places to eat in Gastown.
L’Abattoir
A true Gastown institution, L’Abattoir has been cooking French-influenced west coast cuisine since 2010. Hidden just behind Gaoler’s Mews, it’s one of our favourite spots to get dressed up and book ahead for a proper date night. But don’t overlook the bar: A seat at the bar is one of the most underrated moves, with a happy hour running until 6pm and playful cocktails that pair perfectly with a couple of snacks and oysters.
217 Carrall St
labattoir.ca
Di Beppe
Part cafe, part restaurant, Di Beppe splits its corner space in two: a quick-serve Italian cafe up front for espresso and pastries, and a full dining room in back for lunch and dinner. Our go-to is the salsiccia pizza, topped with fennel sausage, provolone, and rosemary – and don’t forget to save room for the tiramisu. Gluten-free pasta is available for anyone who needs it, plus their aperitivo hour is a good excuse to stop in for an Italian cocktail or a glass of wine before dinner.
8 W Cordova St
dibeppe.com
Oku Izakaya Bar
Tucked into the historic Byrnes Block, Oku is a cozy Japanese izakaya built around temaki, sashimi, and traditional small plates. And if you’re into sake, their list is as impressive as the food. As per authentic izakaya tradition, Oku is open late and one of Gastown’s most-loved late night spots, staying open well past most of its neighbours.
2 Water St
okuizakayabar.com
Is That French
A wine bar hidden behind Blood Alley with a name that’s more tongue-in-cheek than literal, Is That French pairs a French-ish share plate menu with a wine list that pulls from well beyond France. The room is as considered as the menu, making it as good a stop for a full dinner as it is for a glass of something on the way to somewhere else.
45 Blood Alley Square
isthatfrench.com
Guu with Otokomae
Part of the small chain credited with bringing izakaya dining to Vancouver, Guu with Otokomae is the casual, no-fuss version of a night out: sushi, udon, and everything in between, best ordered as a table full of shared plates. Order a giant plate of chicken karaage and a pitcher of Sapporo, and split between however many people you’ve brought along.
375 Water St #105
guu-izakaya.com/otokomae_qr
Zoomak
A modern take on the old Korean tavern, Zoomak leans on homemade, fermentation-forward cooking, kimchi included, and to us, they have one of the best seafood pancakes in the city. The cocktail list leans just as inventive, with Asian-inspired drinks that hold their own against the food.
52 Alexander St
zoomakyvr.com
Where to Stay in Gastown
Located at the edge of the neighbourhood, Block House is the only hotel in Gastown. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a while, Block House offers heritage apartment-style suites with kitchens, thoughtful layouts, and everything you need to make our house your home. And with the city’s most acclaimed restaurants and bars are all within walking distance, it’s the perfect home base for your stay in the city.
Ready to explore? Book your stay in Gastown.
Looking for more things to do in Gastown? Explore our Gastown neighbourhood guide.
