No matter what you’re looking for—epic waterfront dining, a light snack or a leisurely lunch, a patio for people-watching, or a pub to gather with friends and watch the game— Coal Harbour is not short on options. Take a stroll along the world-famous seawall, and get ready to settle in for a meal you won’t soon forget.
If you need a bit of inspiration before you hit the town, here are our top five restaurant picks in Coal Harbour.
Lift Bar & Grill
333 Menchion Mews, Vancouver, BC
Lift Bar & Grill is a Coal Harbour favourite due to its unparalleled waterfront location and unobstructed views of Stanley Park. A sleek eatery offering upscale Pacific Northwest fare, Lift is a modern west coast marine bistro you need to try. Dishes such as the Salt Spring Island mussels, oysters on the half shell, and fresh sushi, as well as pasta & steak, showcases the best ingredients BC has to offer. Go for brunch and order the savoury french toast or Coal Harbour breakfast on their bustling rooftop bar. Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning view!
Cardero’s
1583 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC
Known by locals to be a Vancouver institution, Cardero’s marina-side patio offers spectacular mountain & inlet views and fantastic eats for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy the casual, upscale menu – highlights include grilled fish and sharing platters, classic comfort dishes from the wood-burning oven, or indulge in a light lunch featuring fresh, Oceanwise seafood paired with a great bottle of local, BC wine.
Tap & Barrel
76-1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC
Tap & Barrel’s contemporary pub fare, craft brews, and sprawling ocean-view patio are located right next to the Vancouver convention center. Seasonally inspired and locally sourced whenever possible, their menu is robust. Some local favourites are the pulled bacon poutine, crispy lettuce wraps, handmade guac & salsa, burgers, hand-stretched pizzas, and bowls. They also have an innovative on-tap beverage program which is always a massive hit for BC craft beer and premium BC wine lovers. If you’re in the mood for casual eats, lively atmosphere, and delicious food, Tap & Barrel has it all.
Chewies
1055 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC
This fun and lively neighbourhood hot-spot is just off the seawall and in the heart of downtown Vancouver. Chewies is known in Vancouver as the oyster specialist, featuring a rotating selection of West Coast oysters through the year. Their New Orleans–inspired Cajun & Creole fare doesn’t stop there, though. Try the poboy, catfish & chips, jambalaya, deep-fried cauliflower, pork belly cracklin’, or fried chicken with grits. In an upbeat locale with a lively happy hour, Chewies is the perfect place to meet with friends and order a “grown-up” size glass of wine.
Heritage Asian Eatery
1108 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC
Heritage Asian Eatery is a chic, counter-service restaurant that features a menu of Far-East flavours prepared with locally sourced ingredients and modern techniques. This playful and fun dining experience provides a casual communal atmosphere for lunch and dinner. Order the fluffy steamed bao buns with house-made sausage or savoury mushrooms, pork belly rice bowl, or a big bowl of udon – this may become your new go-to spot!
