I’ve already filled you in on my favourite daily drink specials in the neighbourhood, but now that we’re on the verge of patio season it’s important to become well versed in the best drink-side treats as well.
When you’re lounging in the sun with drink in hand, people-watching and wiling away the day, a nibble is a must (because you may as well go the whole ten yards in self-indulgence). What’s my favourite patio snack? Nachos, of course.
Here are the best that Kitsilano has to offer.
1) Local ($18)
The best nachos, hands down, are at Local (and this is the best patio view as well). The mountain of chips is piled high with cheese, avocadoes, salsa, sour cream, and pulled chicken. So tasty! The half size ($9) is generous, but don’t underestimate the deliciousness – I may be guilty of ordering two halves in one sitting (that’s even more embarrassing than just getting the full to myself from the get-go).
Local Public Eatery, 2210 Cornwall Ave., 604-734-3589, www.localkits.com
2) Elwood’s ($13)
A close second to Local, the nachos at Elwood’s are over the top in every way. The massive portion, laden with three cheeses and everything from onions to black beans to jalapeños, are a meal on their own, and are best enjoyed with a cold beer and close-up view of those wandering past on West Broadway.
Elwood’s, 3145 W Broadway, 604-736-4301, www.elwoods.ca
3) Las Margaritas ($7.25 to $11.50)
Of course at least one Mexican restaurant was going to make the cut. While I’m normally not an advocate of the food at Las Margaritas (let’s face it, we’re here for the extensive tequila menu, free chips and salsa, and, well, margaritas), the nachos do deserve a nod. There are three options, and my favourite is the Nachos Rancheros: cheese, black beans, salsa, tomatoes, lettuce, green onions, olives, sour cream, and guacamole.
Las Margaritas, 1999 W 4th Ave., 604-734-7117, www.lasmargaritas.com
4) Coppertank ($13.99 to $18.99)
These nachos have been around forever and are a big draw for regulars of this local. First of all, the size is ridiculous (and that’s just for the regular order, they also offer a “Tank Size”), but that’s not all. The cheese is always generous, the toppings are spot on (black olives, green peppers, green onions, and tomatoes), and the chips are baked to a perfect golden brown every time.
The Coppertank Grill, 3135 W Broadway, 604-731-6565, www.coppertankgrill.com
5) The Naam ($12.50)
Rounding out my top five is the simple but delicious offering from The Naam. Corn tortilla chips smothered in melted cheese and diced tomato, these nachos are pretty straightforward and always hit the spot. But, you absolutely must order the show-stopping guacamole ($4.25) alongside them to make it worthwhile.
The Naam, 2724 W 4th Ave., 604-738-7151, www.the naam.com
Last modified: May 29, 2017
