Casual, fine and ethnic dining opportunities abound in the region and it is best known for the ethnic diversity of restaurants rarely seen elsewhere in the world - some of the best Chinese, Japanese, and Indian food is served in cities like Richmond and Vancouver and many of the restaurants here are award-winning.
West Coast cuisine that focuses on fresh seafood and locally grown produce, and sustainable resources is incredibly popular and quite specific to BC. Expect to eat at restaurants that boast ingredients sourced from local and sustainable sources and according to the season's offerings. Expect your taste buds to be dazzled with a delicious fusion of food, occasionally served as part of sharing or tapas-sized plates.
Or, combine your gourmet experiences with a bit of sightseeing. There are several lunch and dinner cruises that pair stunning vistas with savoury repasts.
Or, if you want a sumptuous mid-day break, many places in this region offer traditional afternoon tea with scones, tiny sandwiches and berries and cream.
There are also unparalleled opportunities to learn from master chefs at the region's leading culinary schools.
If you have an abiding passion for food, the Farms, Orchards and Markets of the region will prove sublime.
Highlights include:
- Farmers’ markets flourish here, tempting with seasonal fruits and vegetables, locally raised meats, foraged mushrooms and greens, plus locally produced and freshly baked breads and sweets
- Take a fascinating tour of one of the many family-run farms of the fertile and scenic Fraser Valley, the region’s largest agricultural belt
- Pick your own berries: the valley is Canada’s blueberry capital
- Buy artisanal products such as cheese (and ice cream!) direct from producers.
The Fraser Valley is fast becoming a notable wine-producing region, specializing in northern-climate grapes and fruit wines. More than ten Wineries and Vineyards are found here, most offering tours, tastings and even sumptuous meals. Sample local wines as well as the region’s micro-brewed beers in many of the area’s restaurants, particularly in Vancouver.