First dates can be nerve-wracking enough without having to choose the perfect restaurant.
Luckily, you have a wide range of fantastic, unique and romantic spots to choose from right in the neighborhood. While there are countless chefs that have put down roots in Kitsilano, we’ve put together a list of some of the brightest hidden gems guaranteed to wow your date.
1) Sophie’s Cosmic Cafe
2095 West 4th Avenue | 604-732-6810 | www.sophiescosmiccafe.com
Who says a first date has to be dinner? Get to know each other over a brunch date at this casual, kitschy diner. People watch at a window table, or marvel at the various odds and ends of nostalgic novelties on the walls. As an added bonus, if your date is on a Sunday you may catch Sunday morning trivia, where patrons compete for a bottle of Sophie’s Hot Sauce or a free sundae by shouting answers to trivia questions from their tables.
2) Fable
1944 West 4th Avenue | 604-732-1322 | www.fablekitchen.ca
With a winning combination of fantastic food, a local celebrity chef and major presentation wow factor, Fable is sure to be a hit for a first date. Created by Top Chef Canada alumni Trevor Bird, and conceptualized during his time on the show, Fable uses local ingredients and showcases innovative Canadian cuisine. With a warm, inviting and utterly unpretentious setting, outstanding food, and gorgeous presentation, this is one first date that will score huge points with any foodie.
3) Bistro Pastis
2153 West 4th Avenue | 604-731-5020 | www.bistropastis.com
What could be more romantic than a taste of France? The award winning Bistro Pastis offers clasic French fare in a warm, sophisticated environment. With over 250 wines and champagnes from all over the world, there’s something for everyone! The restaurant itself is a warm mix of sophistication and comfort, complete with white tablecloths and a beautiful fireplace. Bon appétit!
4) Salade de Fruits Café
1551 West 7th Avenue | 604-714-5987 | www.saladedefruits.com
One of my favourite hidden gems, Salade de Fruit specializes in home made, casual French food. Uniquely located in the foyer area of the Vancouver Francophone Cultural Centre, the utterly charming Salade de Fruits offers traditional French food in a playful faux-France environment. But do note, it’s cash only – nothing ruins a first date like washing dishes for payment!
5) Farmer’s Apprentice
1535 West 6th Avenue | 604-620-2070 | www.farmersapprentice.ca
Farmer’s Apprentice has fantastic daily creations for dinner, meaning it’s also a great place for your 2nd, 3rd and 4th date! The restaurant specializes in farm-to-table pacific northwest meals with a contemporary twist. While the setting is fairly minimalist, the warm atmosphere, organic wine list and mind-blowing dishes set this restaurant apart as a romantic spot to experience unique flavors.
Honourable mention: The Boathouse
1305 Arbutus Street | 604-738-5487 | www.boathouserestaurants.ca
In terms of the view, The Boathouse on a summer evening simply can’t be beat. Boasting a massive patio overlooking beautiful Kits Beach, a great wine selection and a specialization in seafood, it’s well worth lingering for a nightcap to watch the sun go down.
Last modified: February 21, 2018
