Vancouver Magazine
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Where to find the best contemporary food in a more casual atmosphere in Vancouver.
Splitting the Contemporary category in two means a chance to highlight the restaurants where “New Canadian” cuisine shines and is distinctly Vancouver in nature. Yes, this is due to the food served, but the environment is also reflective of our city’s laidback attitude: casual but not counter service, the ideal restaurant for an impromptu date night.
Last year’s Best New winner, Bar Bravo, clinches gold this year thanks to its inventive, seafood-focused menu (including an exceptional dry-aged fish program) and what our judges called a “special room with unrivalled energy.” You can’t go wrong when ordering here, but you don’t want to miss the fremantle octopus (with brava sauce, salsa verde and labeh) or the squid tagliolini, which arrives dotted with briny olives. “I love the vision of the menu—it’s the perfect size with something that seems to work for every occasion,” said one judge.
4194 Fraser St. bravovancouver.com
Local favourite Nightingale takes home silver this year—last year it was our editors’ pick for Best Any Occasion, and that reputation still stands. The menu is ambitious, showcasing the full spectrum of West Coast fare, from charred miso-marinated mackerel to locally grown parsnips and carrots lacquered in chimichurri to its expertly crafted wood-fired pizza.
1017 W Hastings St. hawknightingale.com
After rising from the ashes of a literal fire and re-opening in its original location, Bar Susu takes bronze thanks to its innovative wine and small plates program (do not miss the forever-favourite fried maitake mushrooms). [Editors’ note: after going to press, we learned that Bar Susu will be closing its doors this spring. Thanks for everything, Team Susu!]
209 E 6th Ave. thisisbarsusu.com
Torafuku 958 Main St. torafuku.ca
Folke 2585 W Broadway folkerestaurant.com
Find more of the best Vancouver restaurants on our list of 2025 Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Award winners.
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