^{Aug 10, 2023}
Top Seafood Restaurants in Vancouver: A Local’s Guide

Given its proximity to the coast, Vancouver offers a fantastic selection of seafood that is showcased in many of the city’s restaurants. Whether you’re looking for favourite local establishment, or one of Vancouver’s Michelin Starred restaurants, with its diverse and ever-changing seafood scene, Vancouver offers the freshest catch from ocean to plate. 

Let’s dive into Vancouver’s seafood culture and explore some of the city’s top seafood restaurants recommended by locals.

Seafood Staples in Vancouver

When it comes to seafood in Vancouver, the selection is as vast as the ocean itself. Sockeye Salmon, one of the most celebrated local catches, is a staple on menus across the city. Whether grilled, smoked, or served as sashimi, it’s a must-try for any seafood lover. Halibut, another local favorite, is often served pan-seared, offering a delicate and mildly sweet flavor. For shellfish lovers, Vancouver boasts an abundance of locally-sourced options. Dungeness crab, Pacific scallops, spot prawns, and the ever-popular BC oysters, all shine in their freshness and quality.

Vancouver’s Sustainable Seafood Scene

Sustainability is a word that’s taken very seriously in Vancouver’s seafood industry. Recognizing the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems, many local restaurants are committed to serving sustainably sourced seafood. This means the seafood is caught or farmed in ways that consider the long-term viability of the species and the ocean’s well-being. It’s not uncommon to see the Ocean Wise symbol on Vancouver menus – a mark indicating sustainably sourced seafood. 

Top Seafood Restaurants in Vancouver

From established restaurants to up and coming, we’ve put together a list of must-try seafood restaurants in Vancouver.

• Blue Water Cafe: Tucked in the heart of Yaletown, Blue Water Cafe is renowned for its innovative seafood dishes and commitment to sustainability. The raw bar is exceptional, and their seafood platter is a visual and culinary delight, featuring a medley of oysters, clams, mussels, prawns, and more.
• Rodney’s Oyster House: Rodney’s, in the bustling Gastown district, is an oyster lover’s paradise. With a selection of the freshest local oysters and a knowledgeable staff ready to guide you, this is the perfect place for a shellfish feast.
• The Sandbar Seafood Restaurant: Located on Granville Island, The Sandbar serves up fresh seafood with a side of scenic views. Dine on their balcony for a breathtaking vista of the city skyline and the harbor, while enjoying dishes like their wild BC salmon or seafood hot pot.
• Miku Vancouver: Miku brings a unique blend of traditional Japanese flavors and West Coast ingredients, with a focus on sustainable seafood. Their Aburi Sushi, flame-seared with a signature sauce, is a game changer and a must-try.
• Fanny Bay Oyster Bar: Located in downtown Vancouver, Fanny Bay Oyster Bar brings the freshest shellfish from tide to table. It’s not just an oyster bar but also a fully licensed seafood market. The tasting menu here changes daily, offering a true taste of the ocean’s bounty. Whether you’re an oyster aficionado or a seafood newbie, Fanny Bay is an excellent spot for a delightful maritime feast.
• Sushi Hii: Sushi Hii is situated on Main Street and offers an intimate sushi dining experience. The chefs here meticulously prepare each piece of sushi with a high level of attention to detail, all while using sustainable and locally sourced seafood. It’s a spot that beautifully marries simplicity with luxury.
• Minami: Sister restaurant to Miku, Minami continues the tradition of serving outstanding Aburi Sushi in the vibrant Yaletown neighborhood. The upscale space combines traditional Japanese elements with West Coast design, creating an elegant dining atmosphere. Expect mouthwatering dishes like the Minami Zen, a lunch platter featuring seasonal items from the kitchen, sushi, and dessert.
• Coast: As the name suggests, Coast celebrates all things seafood. Located in the heart of downtown, this spot offers a range of dining options from a seafood tower to an exquisite a la carte menu. Coast prides itself on using the freshest seafood, presenting dishes that showcase natural flavors with a sophisticated twist.
• Oddfish: Oddfish is all about simplicity and honesty. Located in Kitsilano, the restaurant’s focus is on serving the freshest sustainable seafood in a relaxed, unpretentious setting. Their menu changes daily, reflecting the catch of the day, and the dishes allow the ingredients to speak for themselves.

Tips for Dining

Reservations: Vancouver’s popular seafood restaurants can fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours. Making a reservation ahead of time can ensure you secure a spot and avoid waiting.

Sustainability Matters: Many Vancouver restaurants are committed to sustainability, serving Ocean Wise certified seafood. This means the seafood is ethically sourced, promoting healthy oceans. Don’t hesitate to ask your server about the origin of the seafood you are ordering.

Dress Code: While most seafood restaurants in Vancouver have a casual atmosphere, some of the upscale places may have a more formal dress code. Check the restaurant’s website or call ahead if you’re unsure.

Try Local Specialties: British Columbia is known for its salmon and spot prawns, so consider trying dishes featuring these local specialties when they’re in season.

Pair with Local Wines: British Columbia is also known for its wineries. A local white wine can often complement your seafood meal perfectly.

Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Whether it’s the catch of the day or a house specialty, restaurant staff can guide you towards an unforgettable dining experience.

Conclusion

Exploring Vancouver’s seafood scene is a culinary journey worth undertaking. Each restaurant on this list offers a unique experience, from upscale dining to the quaint charm of a seaside shack. At each spot, you can look forward to fresh, sustainably sourced seafood that captures the city’s close ties with the ocean.

Whether you’re feasting on sushi at Sushi Hii, savouring a seafood tower at Coast, or discovering the daily changing menu at Oddfish, you’ll be experiencing the very best of Vancouver’s seafood offerings. With such a vibrant and diverse seafood scene, you’ll find it easy to understand why Vancouver is considered one of the world’s top food cities. So, venture out, try these spots, and let your taste buds dive into the city’s rich ocean bounty.