Growing up with a Peruvian family I am definitely biased, but I stand firm in my beliefs that Peruvian cuisine is as delicious, robust, and complex as the critics acclaim. Of course, renowned cuisine can be found all over South America – it is a region that produces rich, hearty food meant to be shared and adored.
By Brittany Tiplady
Latin and South American food can be enjoyed at the Michelin Star level, or just as well from a tiny takeout spot.
In the Metro Vancouver area, the options for South American cuisine are limited but not impossible to find. To help you on your gastronomic journey, I’ve compiled a list of South American restaurants and bakeries for you to try.
Vancouver
Ancora Waterfront Dining and Patio
(Two locations: False Creek, Vancouver & Ambleside, Vancouver’s North Shore)
Ancora is a high-end occasion spot, but if your wallet is up for it, I can’t recommend enough. The menu is an elegant marriage of Peruvian-Japanese fusion, with fresh seafood, and a beautiful drink list. On your next date night, don’t skimp on the Causas; enjoy with a Pisco Sour.
Silvestre Deli & Bistro
317 Water St, Vancouver
Located in the heart of Gastown, Silvestre is one of the only spots in the city that serves up Peruvian comfort dishes in a casual setting. Find classics like Aji de gallina and Bisteck a lo pobre on the menu, best enjoyed with a cold glass of Chicha Morada (a beloved juice, made of purple corn, fruits and spices).
SUYO Modern Peruvian
3475 Main Street, Vancouver
Opening at the end of August: a new upscale wine and cocktail bar, serving modern Peruvian fare. Taking over the Main Street Slickity Jim’s suite, Suyo Chef/Partner Ricardo Valverde has designed a seafood-forward menu as well as classic meat, potato, and vegetable dishes that pay homage to Inca dishes and classic Peruvian cuisine. Follow them on Instagram for updates!
Panaderia Latina Bakery
4906 Joyce St, Vancouver
Get your fix of sweet and savoury latin american baked goods like Choripan, Completo, empanadas, and Brazilian Pastel at Panaderia Latina Bakery in the Joyce neighborhood.
Vancouver’s North Shore
El Dorado Pie & Treats
123 Carrie Cates Ct #130, North Vancouver
When our family needs to order empanadas a plenty for a function, this is our go-to! Prepared according to Peruvian tradition, El Dorado empanadas can’t be beat in both price and quality. Owned and operated by Emma Carnero, El Dorado serves a number of other sweet and savoury goods including pies, quiches, and cookies. Follow them on Instagram for delicious updates!
Burnaby
El Inka Deli
3826 Sunset St, Burnaby
This unassuming little spot may not look like much from the outside, but the Google reviews tell a different story. Open for dine-in, take out, I highly recommend ordering my personal favourite, the Anticucho: pieces of barbecued beef heart served with boiled potatoes, and corn. Wash it down with a can of Inka Kola, or a Maracuya (Passion Fruit) with Milk smoothie.
Surrey
Abraxas’ Kitchen
15081 Marine Dr, White Rock
New to the White Rock community, Abraxas’ serves “the Flare of South America- with a twist of classic French. With Dishes from Uruguay to Brazil Chef Abraxas melds his life experience with his kitchen training to bring you a unique array of dishes.” The beverage menu doesn’t disappoint either – an extensive South American-based wine list, and of course, Yerba Mate certainly catches the eye!
This family restaurant is bound to offer a unique and delicious experience. Book your reservation now.
Ancora, Silvestre Deli & Bistro: There are many ways to get to these locations downtown – see TransLink’s Trip Planner.
SUYO Modern Peruvian: Steps away from the 3 bus
Panaderia Latina Bakery: A 3-minute walk from Joyce-Collingwood Station
El Dorado Pie & Treats: A 4-minute walk from the SeaBus on Vancouver’s North Shore
El Inka Deli: Steps away from the 25 bus
Abraxas’ Kitchen: Near the 362 bus or an 18-minute walk from White Rock Centre transit hub
The post Where to Eat South American Cuisine in and around Vancouver appeared first on West Coast Food.