From Ocean to Plate: Top 6 Seafood Restaurants in Vancouver

Vancouver is known for its beautiful scenery, bustling city life, and of course, its delicious seafood. With a plethora of restaurants and eateries to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to go for the best seafood experience.

That's where we come in! We've scoured the city to find the top seafood spots that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Our list includes a mix of fine dining establishments and casual eateries, all carefully chosen for their quality ingredients, unique flavors, and exceptional service. Whether you're in the mood for classic fish dishes or a fancy seafood tower, we've got you covered.

With two beautiful locations, one in the heart of downtown Vancouver and the other in West Vancouver, Ancora offers stunning waterfront views of Granville Island, gorgeous interiors, top-notch service, and scrumptious seafood that will leave you wanting more.

When it comes to appetizers, try the spicy tuna rolls - a perfect combination of heat and freshness. For something a little more unique, try octopus anticucho, a delicious blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Another standout dish is the sea octopus tagliatelle, a dish that's sure to impress with its rich, umami flavor.

For the main course, the lobster and prawn risotto is a standout dish that's sure to satisfy. The creamy risotto is perfectly complemented by succulent pieces of lobster and prawn. However, if you're looking for something truly special, try the Sablefish, which is cooked to perfection and served with a miso glaze that enhances its natural flavor.

One of the things that sets Ancora apart from other seafood restaurants in Vancouver is the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cultures across the menu. This unique blend of flavors is evident in the presentation and taste of each dish, making it a dining experience that you won't find elsewhere in Vancouver.

Known for its fresh seafood, sustainably-sourced ingredients, and elegant atmosphere, Blue Water Cafe is a popular choice for seafood lovers in Vancouver. An ideal place to celebrate a special occasion. The atmosphere is intimate, cozy, and sophisticated with impressive food presentations.

At Blue Water Cafe, the seafood is delivered fresh daily, so you can be assured of the quality of each dish. One of the standout dishes is the seafood tower, which is a delightful option to share with the whole table. It features a generous assortment of oysters, crab, lobster, shrimp, and more, arranged in an elegant display that is sure to impress.

If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, try their selection of flavorful caviar, which pairs perfectly with a glass of champagne. For a lighter option, the fresh scallops served with colorful veggies are a must-try dish that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The attention to detail is what sets Blue Water Café apart from other seafood restaurants in Vancouver. From the blooming bouquets that add a touch of opulence to the impressive food presentations, everything is designed to create an unforgettable dining experience.

Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish is a bright, modern seafood place with a fun and relaxed atmosphere. You can have dinner at a table or watch the action up close at the raw bar. The friendly staff will help you order and enjoy fresh seafood like a pro.

The best thing on the menu is their variety of fresh oysters, each with its own special taste. You can try some with their famous cocktail, The Fanny Bay Caesar, which has Stealth vodka and a fresh oyster. If you don't like raw oysters, don't worry, you should also try the grilled ones with spicy creole butter and a tasty green sauce.

You should try the Sablefish collars and Grilled Oysters too. Clams are also fantastic and good for sharing as well as the mussels. If you want something more filling, go for the West Coast Bouillabaisse. This dish is typically made by simmering a combination of fresh seafood such as fish, clams, mussels, and prawns in a tomato-based broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices.

If you're in the mood for seafood and looking for something unique, Oddfish should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Vancouver. With its ever-changing menu, Oddfish offers an exciting culinary experience that's hard to find elsewhere.

The restaurant's concept is simple: they create dishes based on the freshest ingredients available that day, be it from the sea or the land. This means that you never quite know what you're going to get, but that's part of the appeal. What you can count on is that the seafood will be exceptionally fresh and prepared to perfection.

Oddfish has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with comfortable seating, including cushy booths and chairs. The restaurant's stylish fish-themed décor, chic green colour scheme, and greenery-lined patio all add to the inviting ambiance. It's the perfect spot for a relaxing dinner with friends or a romantic evening out.

If you're a pasta lover, then Oddfish has got you covered. Their pasta dishes are hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. They often feature ocean fare like clams and are topped with flavorful sauces, creating a delectable entree. Of course, you won't want to miss out on the daily fish offerings, prepared in unique ways, which pair perfectly with the restaurant's curated wines.

Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House is a timeless classic in the Vancouver dining scene. With a menu that highlights the freshest seafood and a dedication to exceptional service, this restaurant has been a go-to for over three decades. Oysters are a highlight, with over 20 varieties available to choose from. Whether you're a fan of raw or cooked, there's an oyster dish for you.

The restaurant's classic decor exudes old-world charm with its rich woods, crisp linens, and polished silverware. The rooftop patio is a great spot to enjoy a drink or meal while taking in the city views. Depending on the occasion and your preference, the balcony seating, bistro and bar area, or foliage-filled patio offer varying vibes to enjoy your meal.

Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House's happy hour is a hit with locals and tourists alike. Parmesan truffle fries and lobster and shrimp rolls are just a few of the tasty items on the menu.

For a meal, start with the creamy Lobster Bisque or a fresh selection of oysters on the half shell. The Seafood Linguine is a must-try, featuring seared scallops and prawns, topped with a white wine sauce. The Fish and Chips is another popular dish that's cooked to perfection, with crispy batter and a tender interior.

Situated on Granville Island with stunning views of False Creek, The Sandbar offers a wide range of seafood options, from sushi rolls to seafood platters. They also have a great patio for outdoor dining.

Two floors of dining space offer a unique atmosphere that is sure to impress. With a 180-degree view of Burrard Inlet, you can take in the picturesque scenery while enjoying a meal. Plus, the patio located under the Granville Street Bridge is a fantastic spot to soak up the sun and enjoy some fresh air.

Speaking of fresh, The Sandbar's kitchen serves up an extensive menu of sustainable seafood dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're in the mood for brunch, lunch, or dinner, they have you covered. And if you have dietary restrictions, don't worry - they have plenty of options for you too.

For those who enjoy sharing plates, the Wok Squid and Mussels are both fantastic options. The Wok Squid is crispy and packed with flavour, while the Mussels are served in a white wine cream sauce that will leave you wanting more.