Lebanese$$yaletownMon-Sun 11:00-22:00
Nuba on Seymour in Yaletown is the family-run Sabbagh family Lebanese kitchen since 2003, halal-certified throughout the menu, the city's reference Lebanese.
Tip: Najib's Special falafel and the family-sized mezze platter are the kitchen's reference plates. Multiple Vancouver branches.
Mediterranean$$south-granvilleDaily 12:00-22:00
Afghan Horsemen on Anderson on Granville Island since 1974 is Canada's oldest Afghan restaurant, halal kebabs and ashak dumplings, a heritage room.
Tip: Reservations on the website; the back room sits low at floor cushions. The lamb sajee is the kitchen's calendar.
Eastern European$$south-granvilleMon-Thu 09:00-18:00, Fri 09:00-15:00, Sun 10:00-17:00, closed Saturdays
Omnitsky Kosher Deli on Oak Street is Vancouver's reference Glatt kosher deli and butcher since 1942, BC Kosher certified by the Vancouver Beth Din.
Tip: Counter takeout only; the corned beef sandwich is the kitchen's reference plate. Closed Friday afternoon and Saturday for Shabbat.
Vegan$$gastownDaily 11:00-22:00
MeeT in Gastown on Water Street is the original of the city's reference vegan-burger trio since 2014, three Vancouver locations and a classic comfort menu.
Tip: No reservations; walk-in line is busiest Saturday from 18:00. The MeeT on Main branch has the larger room.
Vegetarian$$$mount-pleasantWed-Sun 17:00-22:30, closed Mon-Tue
The Acorn on Main Street since 2012 is Vancouver's reference vegetarian and largely vegan-friendly dining room, Canada's 100 Best top 30 with a Plant-Forward.
Tip: Reservations on Tock open 30 days out; vegan-marked menu options across the entire plate list.
Pizzeria$$mount-pleasantDaily 11:30-22:00
Virtuous Pie on Main Street since 2015 is the city's reference vegan pizzeria with the cashew mozzarella house pour, plus ice cream and a Vancouver classic.
Tip: No reservations; the bar walks in. The Stranger and Super Cheezy are the kitchen's reference pies.