Vancouver, Washington, has become one of the best spots for dining out, offering a mix of flavors and atmospheres that cater to every mood and occasion. From savoring delicious tapas with friends to enjoying a cozy brunch on a lazy Sunday morning, or even treating yourself to an unforgettable fine dining experience, this city has it all. Here’s our personal picks for the best restaurants in Vancouver, where each meal is an opportunity to indulge in mouthwatering flavors and enjoy unforgettable dining experiences.
The Cove
The Cove, in the Riverview district of Vancouver, WA, is one of the best restaurants where friends come together to savor the best of Northwest cuisine. Enjoy fresh seafood, craft cocktails, and local beer & wine in a stunning riverfront environment. The brunch menu boasts housemade buttermilk biscuits, red barrel braised short rib hash, and eggs benedict with wood-grilled Carlton Farms Canadian bacon. The raw bar offers fresh oysters and a sampler featuring poached prawns, oysters on the half shell, ahi poke on sesame wontons, daily sushi rolls, and sashimi. With an impressive cocktail selection and a delectable dinner menu, The Cove is the perfect place for any occasion.
5731 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States
Cecilia
Cecilia, near Marine Park on the coast of Vancouver, offers the best brunch in town. This charming restaurant features a bistro-style menu with a mimosa brunch that includes specials like chicken fried steak, biscuits and gravy, and fried chicken and waffles. Their dinner menu is equally impressive, highlighting dishes such as Alaskan halibut, braised lamb shank, and the Chef’s Jumbalaya. They also cater to dietary needs with a dedicated gluten-free menu. The contemporary and beautiful interior, featuring exposed brick walls, pink accents, and renovated restrooms and banquet room, adds to the dining experience. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Cecilia provides a welcoming atmosphere where the cheerful staff works hard, stays positive, and makes every visit truly wonderful.
2520 Columbia House Blvd #108, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States
Heathen Brewing Feral Public House
Heathen Brewing and Feral Public House, known for crafting small batches of “Progressive Ales for the Promiscuous Palate,” stands out in the local brewing scene with their dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from the community. Born from the soul of home brewing, Heathen Brewing offers a delightful array of delicious food, from appetizers to salads, soups, pizzas, and entrees that cater to meat lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and spice enthusiasts alike. Beyond their locally made beers and ciders, they also offer a wonderful selection of wines and a cocktail bar. With 31 taps featuring craft beers inspired by travel and a love for different cultures, Heathen Brewing provides great drinks, food, and excellent service, making it an ideal spot for big groups to gather and enjoy.
1109 Washington St, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States
The Sedgewick
The Sedgewick, in downtown Vancouver, offers a unique dining experience with flavorful small plates and an array of salads and bites. The restaurant’s cozy lounge area features couches, while table seating is also available for a more traditional dining experience. Their small, family-style shared plates pair beautifully with craft cocktails focused on the classics, allowing guests to sample a variety of different flavors in one meal. This approach creates a warm, nostalgic feeling, making it an ideal spot to share a meal with loved ones and explore new tastes of traditional dishes. Notable highlights include the coconut curry bisque, bone marrow & escargot, and Japanese fried rabbit. Cocktails are a must as well, made with unusual ingredients like lime sage cello, magnolia petals and blackberry coulis.
801 Washington St, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States
Casa Colima Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
Casa Colima Mexican Restaurant & Cantina brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico City to Vancouver. Known for its zesty dishes, this eatery will leave your taste buds tingling with delights such as nachos supremos topped with beef, birria, and guac, marinated shrimp enchiladas, and the famous fiesta sampler. Alongside a selection of top-notch fajitas, tacos and burritos, diners can sip on flights of the finest tequila, refreshing cocktails of mezcaritas and margaritas for a truly authentic touch. Complete the experience with traditional desserts like flan, churros with chocolate, and fried cheesecake. Plus, Casa Colima offers catering for events, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
6700 NE 162nd Ave STE 623, Vancouver, WA 98682, United States
El Gaucho Vancouver
Perhaps the city’s best steakhouse El Gaucho Vancouver is nestled within the Hotel Indigo along the picturesque Columbia River waterfront. Known for its elegant ambiance and impeccable service, El Gaucho is the perfect destination for business meetings and special occasions alike. The menu features high-end classics such as Angus beef and fresh seafood, all prepared with meticulous care on their charcoal grill in an open exhibition-style kitchen. From the moment guests step through the doors, they are treated to old-school, tableside service that honors tradition while setting a standard for modern fine dining. Whether indulging in the signature Steak El Gaucho—a custom-aged filet mignon with lobster medallion, asparagus, and béarnaise—or enjoying fire-dancing desserts, every visit to El Gaucho is a culinary work of art.
510 Waterfront Wy, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States