Lunching it up Downtown

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Some line ups are worth it. Some are not. Here's my take on the lunch spots within walking radius of Dunsmuir & Howe.

 1. The Deli - Family Gourmet

1055 W Georgia St, Ste 242
Vancouver, BC V6E 3P1
(604) 605-3354

Categories: Delis, Sandwiches

Neighbourhood: Downtown

5.0 star rating
  11/3/2011

My 5 stars are reserved for one thing only: smoked salmon on multigrain baguette with roasted vegetables and olive tapenade, toasted. This is my Deli sandwich that has taken me months to perfect. Instant. Foodgasm. Guaranteed.

It's all about how you…More »

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 2. Hawksworth

801 W Georgia St
Vancouver, BC V6C 3G1
(604) 673-7000

Category: Restaurants

Neighbourhood: Downtown

5.0 star rating
  11/21/2011 ROTD 2/3/2012

This place is full of eye candy. Men in suits - nuff said. Too bad I can't do the creeper on them cuz I'm distracted by how AMAZING the Steelhead Salmon was!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ($24 I think?). I've stopped ordering cooked salmon for at least a few years…More »

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 3. Kamei Royale Japanese Restaurant

1030 Georgia Street West
Vancouver, BC V6E 2Y3
(604) 687-8588

Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars

Neighbourhoods: West End, Downtown

5.0 star rating
  11/8/2011

Surprised with the lukewarm reviews. Sure it's more expensive than your Urban/Bay/or similar Sushi's, but you get what you pay for. I think Kamei Royale has character and beautiful food. The waitresses all smile so ridiculously widely that I can't…More »

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 4. Sandwich Plus

530 Hornby St
Vancouver, BC V6C 2E7
(604) 682-7565

Category: Sandwiches

Neighbourhood: Downtown

5.0 star rating
  11/8/2011

Haiku review:

Big pile of turkey
Size of human baby's head,
Get in mah belly!

Screw the mayonnaise
Avocado for the win
And cranberry spread.

Oh that awful line.
Sandwich too big for my mouth.
Mmm gobblelicious!

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 5. Tableau Bar Bistro

1181 Melville St
Vancouver, BC V6E 2S8
(604) 639-8692

Categories: French, Wine Bars

Neighbourhood: Downtown

5.0 star rating
  Update - 4/3/2012

Tableau is quickly becoming one of my favourite Vancouver restaurants, having had a dinner and a lunch visit under my belt (or should I say in my tummy?). The food was consistently mind blowing, the portions continue to surprise me, and of course…More »

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  • 4.0 star rating
    1/4/2012

    Our group came in on a very non-busy weekday. We essentially had an entire corner of the dining room… Read more »

 6. Bay Sushi Express Cafe

678 Seymour St
Vancouver, BC V6B 1Z5
(604) 806-0361

Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars

Neighbourhood: Downtown

4.0 star rating
  11/3/2011

A really popular lunch spot Downtown. How popular you ask? Was just down there for lunch, and I bumped into 2 people I know and my companion bumped into 3.

They do a variety of Japanese and Korean food here. I've had the Sushi & Sashimi Bento box…More »

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 7. Dae-Ji

519 Dunsmuir Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 1Y4
(604) 677-1636

Category: Korean

Neighbourhood: Downtown

4.0 star rating
  Update - 5/5/2012

I'm glad I gave Dae-Ji a second chance. After a lunch visit yesterday, I have changed my mind on this place.

Seeing how I didn't entirely enjoy the curry last time, I went with their #1 menu item - Pork Cutlet with Gravy. It came with two large…More »

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  • 2.0 star rating
    11/23/2011

    No doubt a hearty meal, because c'mon, we're talking generous portions of carbs and deep fried stuff… Read more »

 8. Gallery Café & Catering

750 Hornby St
Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7
(604) 688-2233

Categories: Delis, Canadian (New), Local Flavour

Neighbourhood: Downtown

4.0 star rating
  4/21/2012

Dining in on April 20th with wafts of errrr "grassy" scents drifting by and blaring rock music is probably not the best representation of this eatery's atmosphere. Regardless, I'm pretty stoked about this patio. It shall be my mini-mini-lunch break…More »

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 9. Joyeaux Cafe & Restaurant

551 Howe St
Vancouver, BC V6C 2C2
(604) 681-9168

Categories: Vietnamese, Sandwiches

Neighbourhood: Downtown

4.0 star rating
  10/28/2011

A really popular place for lunch Downtown. At 11:30 this place starts to fill up and quick too! So if you want to score a table, make sure to come early.

Last time I tried their beef brisket soup (#3). Don't expect regular pho with this one. The…More »

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 10. Zero One Sushi

559 W Pender St
Vancouver, BC V6B 1V5
(604) 605-1625

Categories: Sushi Bars, Japanese

Neighbourhood: Downtown

4.0 star rating
  2/24/2012

This tiny joint is nearly impossible to locate - they really need a clear sign, sandwich board, or something. If I didn't have the address and didn't sample their delicious offering at Yelp's MOV event, I would've given up. But alas, my hungry brain…More »

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 11. Zorbas Souvlaki

530 Hornby St
Vancouver, BC V6C 2E7
(604) 669-9774

Category: Greek

Neighbourhood: Downtown

4.0 star rating
  1/3/2012

Was debating what to get from International Food Court. Not in mood for Indian food (India Abroad). And was tired of sandwiches all the time at work (Sandwich Plus). This stall to the left of India Abroad and its cheap special caught my eye. So, the…More »

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 12. Bellaggio Cafe

1055 Canada Place
Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3
(604) 647-7523

Categories: Bars, Italian

Neighbourhoods: Coal Harbour, Downtown

3.0 star rating
  5/11/2012

This is a "breastaurant." Didn't really expect it with such a homely name, but the girls are definitely here.

Fabulous patio, and among the largest I've seen in Vancouver. If your companions are nice enough to save you a seat facing the waters, be…More »

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 13. Copper Chimney Restaurant

567 Hornby St
Vancouver, BC V6C 2E8
(604) 689-8862

Categories: Indian, Canadian (New)

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  11/17/2011

Hmm... Indian fusion. First timer and I like it! Whodathunk?!

I got the Crab Cakes ($20) for lunch. It came with rice and salad with mango vinaigrette (this dressing is unique and delish!). The star of the show was, of course, the crab cakes (2 pcs).…More »

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 14. Cuiscene

701 Granville St
Vancouver, BC V6Z
(604) 669-9984

Category: Restaurants

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  Update - 3/4/2012

Heard recently on the papers that this Sears location is closing November 2012. That will certainly be the end of Cuiscene. I will dearly miss this lunch spot and their daily specials. :(

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  • 4.0 star rating
    11/18/2011

    A total hidden lunch gem on the 4th floor of Sears in Pacific Centre. The escalator trip up seems… Read more »

 15. Extreme Pita

1055 W Georgia St, Unit 222
Vancouver, BC V6E 3P1
(604) 687-7482

Category: Fast Food

Neighbourhood: West End

3.0 star rating
  1/12/2012

Chicken Shawarma ($7.79 for regular size). Obviously not the best I've had, but not bad for a quick healthier food court lunch. The regular looks big, but turned out to be the perfect size for my hungry working stomach. Appropriately portioned…More »

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 16. Jugo Juice

701 W Georgia St
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K8
(604) 682-8716

Category: Juice Bars & Smoothies

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  1/23/2012

I thought I was seeing doubles! There are TWO Jugo Juices in Pacific Centre - one in the food court, and one by Holt Renfrew on the underground level. The food court one tends to get busier. Other than that, no differences.

I'm a fan of the Snackin'…More »

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 17. Kim House

538 Seymour St
Vancouver, BC V5L
(604) 677-7112

Categories: Japanese, Vietnamese

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  5/2/2012

20% off after 4pm/5pm (?) for everything on the menu, except certain combos and liquor. Dine in only. No doggy bag. I find the last limitation strange, but whatever, I don't call the bf "Garbagerator" for nothing! What a great promotion to draw in…More »

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 18. Kimono Japanese Restaurant

433 Granville St
Vancouver, BC V6C 1T1
(604) 899-8814

Category: Japanese

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  1/4/2012

A sushi joint NOT packed to the brim during lunch rush in the business core?!?! It exists!

Went in with no expectations and the Chicken Soba Noodle Soup was actually pretty delicious. Soup was nice to slurp on - totally comforting on a typical…More »

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 19. Meat & Bread

370 Cambie St
Vancouver, BC V6B 2N4
(604) 566-9003

Category: Sandwiches

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  5/16/2012

The Porchetta didn't rock my socks off. The pork was very nice - perfect combination of fat and lean; not greasy. The crispy skin bits packed a flavourful punch. But the buns - what a major downer! Some parts were rock hard. Overall chewy, not in a…More »

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 20. New York Fries

609 Granville St
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K8
(604) 681-4930

Category: Specialty Food

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  2/15/2012

I actually think NYF's fries are alright. Sure it's a little soggy, but it's the right size for me and you can tell it's from a real potato. The cheese and gravy are below average and made me feel gross - I'll be staying away from their poutines.

The…More »

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 21. Ripple Rock Cafe

1050 Pender Street W
Vancouver, BC V6E 3S7
(604) 568-2289

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  4/19/2012

Tucked in the secret alleyway behind the BMO building is this unassuming little cafe that offers comfort food choices with a gourmet twist. There was a consistent stream of customers at lunch, but not madly hectic. There are oodles of natural…More »

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 22. Sciue Italian Bakery Caffe

800 Pender St W
Vancouver, BC V6C 2V6
(604) 602-7263

Categories: Italian, Bakeries

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  1/28/2012

Pizza by the weight. Interesting. I must admit that's a good way of moderating food portions. However, my 2 moderate pieces of pizza were $10 after tax. It was just enough to push me into full. Hence, pretty pricey for lunch, and definitely dropping…More »

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 23. Scoozi's

445 Howe Street
Vancouver, BC V6C 2X4
(604) 684-1009

Categories: Breakfast & Brunch, Italian

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  3/9/2012

Was here for lunch with a small group. I got a Soup & Spanakopita combo and it ended up being $17 after tax & tips. Good food. But very pricey and not the most value per dollar.

I really enjoyed the Spanakopita. Spinach and cheese didn't sound like a…More »

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 24. Thai Express

701 W Georgia St
Vancouver, BC V7Y
(604) 562-3436

Category: Thai

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  12/14/2011

For a food court stall, I'm actually somewhat impressed. Sure the food is composed of 95% carbohydrate and 5% protein/vegetable/everything else, but I like the concept and execution.

1. Simple menu. A few dishes to choose from - giant bold font of…More »

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 25. Urban Sushi

562 Granville St
Vancouver, BC V6C 1W6
(604) 806-6218

Category: Sushi Bars

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  11/2/2011

I came here for a quick sit-down lunch. Good thing we came early to beat the rush (11:30) because the seating is limited and it gets very busy.

I had the Veggie Bento Box ($8.50 before tax). The veggie teriyaki was average. Some vegetables were…More »

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 26. Vina Vietnamese Gourmet

777 Dunsmuir St
Vancouver, BC V6C 1N5
(604) 682-8016

Category: Vietnamese

Neighbourhood: Downtown

3.0 star rating
  Update - 3/9/2012

Probably one of the better food court stalls at Pacific Centre. I tend to gravitate toward combo #9, which is Fried Noodles + Roll Dip (essentially deep-fried spring roll) + a pathetic excuse of a Salad. It's swimming in oil, but actually has some…More »

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  • 3.0 star rating
    11/20/2011

    This is a matter of opinion: I think Pacific Centre is the most yawn-inducing food court in Downtown… Read more »

 27. Eh! Restaurant

1050 Alberni St
Vancouver, BC V6E 2A3
(604) 568-9915

Category: Canadian (New)

Neighbourhoods: West End, Downtown

2.0 star rating
  2/6/2012

I've been meaning to come to Eh! for dinner since forever, but never quite made their 7pm closing time. So clearly, this is more of a lunch place than dinner. Anyway, came in at 6:20pm and the place only had a few patrons - made for a quiet casual…More »

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 28. H-Mart Korean Grocery Store

590 Robson St
Vancouver, BC V6J 5L1
(604) 609-4567

Category: Grocery

Neighbourhood: Downtown

2.0 star rating
  11/5/2011

This review is strictly on my dine-in lunch experience yesterday. H-Mart reminds me of a Korean T&T. The hot food section in the Metrotown T&T was a lunch goldmine for me. Sadly, working Downtown means that I am no longer within walking distance of…More »

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 29. Japa Dog

530 Robson St
Vancouver, BC V6B 2B7
(604) 809-4333

Categories: Japanese, Hot Dogs

Neighbourhood: Downtown

2.0 star rating
  10/28/2011

I don't consider myself a particularly critical or picky eater. I love me some hot dogs once in a while. However, I will say I tend to prefer foods done the traditional way. So, this mentality probably plays a factor here.

Sorry to rock the boat, but…More »

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 30. Rogue Kitchen & Wetbar

601 W Cordova St
Vancouver, BC V6B 1G1
(604) 678-8000

Categories: Canadian (Traditional), Gastropubs

Neighbourhood: Downtown

2.0 star rating
  5/16/2012

Why such a dry salty burger? At least there was the patio.

There is a Yelp check in offer of $5 off next visit. I highly doubt there will be a next visit.

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 31. Shuraku Restaurant

833 Granville Street
Vancouver, BC V6Z
(604) 687-6622

Category: Japanese

Neighbourhoods: Downtown, Granville Entertainment District

2.0 star rating
  4/3/2012

I don't know man. After 3 visits, including lunch and dinner, I'm just not feeling this place. Everything about it is just alright. It's hard finding that interesting aspect about the restaurant to entice revisits. Menu offerings seem similar to…More »

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 32. St. Regis Bar and Grille

608 Dunsmuir St
Vancouver, BC V6B
(604) 696-5558

Category: Canadian (Traditional)

Neighbourhood: Downtown

2.0 star rating
  10/23/2011

Was here for a quick work lunch. Service was prompt, warm, and friendly.  Menu selection seemed like slightly more upscale pub fare. I had the Blondie Strawberry Salad and added the grilled chicken for $16 total. Chicken was dry and spinach leaves…More »

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 33. Umi Sushi Express

700 W Georgia St
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K8
(604) 633-9228

Category: Japanese

Neighbourhood: Downtown

2.0 star rating
  11/21/2011

I got the Brown Rice California Roll (8 pcs; $4.80 after tax) - why you such a soggy sushi?

Saddest sushi roll I've ever seen - cut unevenly, squished on one end of the packaging, and a couple were crumbling apart. Sushi rice was soggy and too sweet…More »

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 34. Victoria Chinese Restaurant

1055 W Georgia St
Vancouver, BC V6E 3B2
(604) 669-8383

Category: Dim Sum

Neighbourhood: Downtown

2.0 star rating
  11/27/2011

I've had lunch dim sum here a few times. No standouts for food. Almost every single dish I've had better elsewhere. There is this Shrimp Salad Roll on the dim sum menu. Do Not Get This! So disgusting - deep fried spring roll with a couple of tiny…More »

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 35. Koya Japan

701 Georgia St W
Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K8
(604) 684-5692

Category: Japanese

Neighbourhood: Downtown

1.0 star rating
  10/31/2011 First to Review

Located in the Pacific Centre food court. I got the Teriyaki tofu ($7 ish) for a quick lunch. Take out box was 2/3 rice! Vegetables consisted of lots of bean sprouts, cabbage, and a few tiny florets of broccoli. The tofu is of the softer variety.…More »

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Review votes:
170 Useful, 128 Funny, and 128 Cool

Location

Surrey, BC

Yelping Since

October 2011

Things I Love

country music, fluffy things, hole in the walls, naps, chocolate, making cards, back rubs, puns, pink

Find Me In

loitering mode

Why You Should Read My Reviews

Because I nom out pretty frequently.

My Favourite Movie

The Godfather Trilogy (can't make up my mind on which one I like best...)

My Last Meal On Earth

Mom's home cooking

Don't Tell Anyone Else But...

I sing along to the honky tonk.

Most Recent Discovery

Bronzer

Current Crush

Keith Urban