Adventures in Vancouver
Our vacations aren’t to fancy resorts for relaxation and beach-bumming; we use our time away to visit new places and enjoy big cities. I’m not complected for long days in the tropics, and with so many places still on the “must-see” list, it makes sense that vacations are planned around urban centers. Our trip last fall to Vancouver didn’t disappoint - the weather, food, coffee, and scenery were amazing. This west coast gem is the perfect combination of nature and cityscape.
The Food - Vegan in Vancouver
Vancouver offered up some of the best food I’ve tasted, especially since going vegan. From sweet to savory, the city’s options were delicious at all price-points.
Cartem’s Donuts - We ate so many types of donuts here, but the fig was a standout. I was so happy they had vegan friendly options.
MeeT - 2 words - VEGAN POUTINE. This was hands down the best restaurant experience, and we went several times. The menu was tasty, and at one point the manager heard that I was from Texas and brought me over a blanket and free appetizer. The mushroom kalamari, poutine, and the kronut are things dreams are made of. If I could eat a vegan meal anywhere in the world I’ve been so far, I’m headed to MeeT.
Nuba - This tiny Lebanese spot was cheap and plentiful; when they call it La Feast, they mean it. The falafel was so yummy!
Heirloom Vegetarian - Another great spot we visited more than once, Heirloom is where basic Canadians go to get fancy brunch and have former models serve them juice. I can’t complain, it was the first wedge salad I’ve eaten since becoming a vegan, and the options were delicious and healthy. They offer a great juice bar and cafe in addition to full menu.
Melu Juice Bar - Good juice and smoothie bowls.
Kokomo - If you’re in the market for some instagram-ready smoothie bowls, this is your place. The pink interior made for a great, quick-and-easy breakfast.
Danbo Ramen - Had we not stumbled upon Danbo Ramen toward the end of our trip, we would’ve eaten here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is the best vegan ramen I’ve had, and I cannot think of anything more satisfying than spicy ramen on a cold, rainy day. I was so thrilled with this experience and hope to get back soon!
Acorn - Since this trip overlapped with our anniversary, we wanted to have one fancy dinner that was more of an experience than a feast. Acorn offers gorgeous, vegetable-forward dishes and they were completely accommodating to our vegan diet. It was top-notch and perfect for a special celebratory meal.
Virtuous Pie - This is one of those restaurants where I’m grateful to be vacationing in a city where no one knows me. This way I can order two pizzas for myself and not feel any shame at all. Virtuous was such an amazing experience and again, we went more than once. Superfunghi was a truffle and arugula delight while the sweet pepper + sausage still makes my mouth water. How I transitioned back to living in a world where this place is two plane rides away is a mystery.
The City
We thoroughly enjoyed just walking around the city (admittedly I wanted to ride around in the water taxis more than walk, but we did plenty of both). The density is unique compared to most US cities, and the modern skyscrapers are made of enough glass that they reflect the sunsets. Combined with the clear reflective water from the coast and little inlets, and you’re surrounded with soft, cool hues wherever you look. With plenty of protected bike lanes, wide pedestrian paths, and parkspace, this is one of the most walkable cities we’ve visited.
The Cycling
September in Austin is disgusting; 100 degree days, full sun, and a lingering heat that makes you feel like you’re breathing into a fireplace. Throw in sunburn-prone skin and you’re banished indoors. Group cycling rides this time of year are branded as “Hotter than Hell” and taglines are things like “see if you can survive.” Yeah, not great.
Vancouver is cool and crisp, with sprinkles of rain and patches of clouds that make riding so enjoyable. The mountain and coastal views make it stunning to ride through. So, knowing it was gearing up to be another blistering summer, we registered for the RBC GranFondo, an organized ride along the Sea to Sky highway.
The GranFondo had several options, but the route we chose was 76 miles with 6,200 feet of elevation. We trained up and had a great ride. The ride culminates in the Whistler Olympic Village, and between reaching a fitness goal and seeing the Olympic rings, it was easy to feel like Rocky.
Vancouver is for Nature Lovers
Between Stanley Park, pristine mountains and coasts, flower markets, and a fantastic conservation-focused aquarium, there is plenty for nature lovers in Vancouver. We adored the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park and there was so much more to see than just the bridge. We could’ve spent the whole day there, and despite blog posts that made it sound like transportation to and from the park was costly and lengthy, we hopped on a free shuttle right outside our hotel with no issues.
But First, Coffee
Vancouver offered up some amazing coffee shops, but our favorite by far was Revolver. If you haven’t had an espresso flight, you’re missing out. Who wouldn’t want an Americano, Cappuccino, and a shot in one order? All of these locations offered great milk alternatives (including oat milk, my go-to).
While it definitely seems like all we did was eat and cycle, we did get to experience a lot of Vancouver in this trip, including the amazing neighborhoods of Yaletown, Gastown, and Granville Island. I’m ready to go back!