We’ve officially entered one of the least exciting months of the year. Many are returning to their mundane routine now that the holiday season has ended, and we’re still right at the start of winter, meaning there’s plenty more cold and dreary weather on the way.
That’s why it’s nice to pretend you’re somewhere warmer or more tropical, even if it is just for a few hours, and these restaurants can help you do just that.
Whether you want to feel like you’re dining in the middle of the jungle, at a cafe in Paris, or enjoying a tiki beverage in a bar decked out in Hawaiian decor, here’s a list of restaurants that will help you feel like you’re on vacation.
Take a break from the concrete jungle of Vancouver and step into the lush green forest of the Jungle Room. The room’s decor creates a dark and moody atmosphere, complete with a deep green and gold aesthetic with plant-forward decor. This is the grown-up version of Rainforest Cafe we’ve been dreaming of.
Address: 961 Denman Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-558-4343
This lively, colourful restaurant will instantly transport you to Brazil — a definite welcome when we’re deep in Vancouver’s rainy winter. Not only can you enjoy some authentic Brazilian cuisine here — think steak with roasted cassava — but Boteco also often has live music.
Address: 2545 Nanaimo Street, Vancouver
Phone: 778-379-7995
This Moroccan restaurant is one of the city’s most special spots. With sumptuous interiors straight out of Marrakech, silver platters of traditional mint tea, belly dancing performances, and fantastic Moroccan food, this spot will make you feel like you’re worlds away.
Address: 1002 Mainland Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-696-4055
One of Vancouver’s only tiki bars, the Shameful Tiki is always guaranteed to be a good time. Fully decked out in Hawaiian and retro tiki decor — from the thatched bar to hanging globe lights to tropical paraphernalia — this spot is a fully immersive bar experience.
Address: 4362 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-336-1395
Located on the vibrant Commercial Drive, Havana is inspired by the flavours, colours, and culture of Cuba’s Old Havana. In addition to Cuban-inspired cuisine, this is the perfect spot to sip some mojitos and sangria.
Address: 1212 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Phone: 604-253-9119
Au Comptoir, which translates to “at the counter,” is Vancouver’s version of the Parisian culture of standing at a cafe counter to eat and drink. Whether you’re sipping on a cappuccino or a glass of wine or enjoying some of its French cuisine, Au Comptoir is the place to be if you want to feel like you’re in the city of light.
Address: 2278 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Phone: 604-569-2278
As soon as you walk into La Casita, you’ll feel like you’re on vacation in Mexico. The little Gastown restaurant has vibrant, colourful interiors and plenty of tropical plants, and if that doesn’t do the trick, the giant margarita the size of your head will.
Address: 101 West Cordova Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-646-2444
Moose’s Down Under is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver and does everything Aussie style. Mates, it’s time to familiarize yourself with a Kangaroo burger, Aussie Meat Pie, and Oz Fries.
Address: 830 West Pender Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-683-3300
This Latin-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant in Mount Pleasant has a great little street-side patio and vibrant and charming interiors inspired by Cuba. Come for a cocktail and some patatas bravas, and stay for the tropical vibes.
Address: 2610 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-620-2433
For both Greek food and fun, check out this restaurant and bar on Commercial Drive. Loula’s white bricks and colourful seating mimic the kind of family spots you’d find in Greece, while the sun and sea-inspired menu will transport you directly to the Mediterranean.
Address: 1608 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Phone: 604-255-3787
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