Vancouver 
Over the last year, Vancouver celebrated the grand opening of many new types of eateries and restaurants. There are new cafes, bakeries, bars, breweries, and more to taste your way around for something new.
When it comes to your upcoming holiday plans, there are several new places in Vancouver around which to centre your holiday dining and celebrations.
Credit: Libby Penner/Unsplash
Choose between an array of dine-in experiences and cuisine types this Christmas in Vancouver! In 2024, there were new places for international and fusion cuisine, family dining, brunch and breakfast, or to taste through new cocktail menus.
Yume Japanese Restaurant
Japanese Restaurant opened its airy, inviting, and beautiful dining space a few months ago and has since grown consistently in popularity. Initially, they aspired to be the first Futomaki-inspired restaurant in the city and have greatly succeeded! Futomaki is a style of sushi roll with a wider-than-average circumference. The restaurant offers a wide range of additional Japanese dishes, including several snacks that are great for sharing with a big group over the holidays.
Where: 410 W 2 Ave.
Selen Aegean Bistro
Hurry to make your holiday reservations with Vancouver’s new Selen Aegean Bistro! The reservation spots are filling up quickly thanks to the bistro’s delicious Greek inspired cuisine. Along with a comforting menu of starters, mains, cocktails (mocktails, too), and desserts, Selen boasts homey interior and dining space.
Where: 360 Penticton St.
Ryu Katsu + Ramen Bar
There is no better time than deep into December and some of the coldest or rainiest days in Vancouver to indulge in a hearty bowl of soup.
Treat yourself and your loved ones for the holidays with one of Vancouver’s newest ramen restaurants and all of the spot’s delicious soup flavours. These homemade broths are dressed in a large selection of toppings and noodle types alongside a menu of other savoury plates.
Where: 2120 West Broadway
Sushi Umi
Vancouver’s locally owned Sushi Umi celebrated the grand opening of their second Vancouver-area location in 2024. And for the holidays, they are here to help your celebrate from the original North Van location or the new Fairview restaurant. As a restaurant specializing in sushi, Sushi Umi provide guests with many ways to share these delicious eats among friends and family over the holidays.
Where: 3121 Granville St.
La Forchetta
Cozy up together for the holidays at one of Vancouver’s newest Italian restaurants. La Forchetta in Burnaby have a mouthwatering menu of handmade pastas and other traditional Italian cuisine. Most of their dishes, while inspired by tradition, include La Forchetta’s own flare or unique take on the cuisine.
Where: 5601 Hastings St., Burnaby
Nonna’s Cucina
While only open since August 2024, Nonna’s Cucina already have a viral and signature dish attached to their restaurant. Whether you’re making reservations at Nonna’s for the popular Burrata Bar, or for specific holiday plans, this new restaurant is sure to impress. Reservations to try this epic new Italian menu in Vancouver are strongly recommended.
Where: 1728 Commercial Drive
El Gato Gab Gab
Elevate your holiday plans and taco game this December with Vancouver’s newest authentic Mexican eatery: El Gato Gab Gab. The new-ish restaurant serves up an array of taco varieties among other snacks, sides, desserts, and a crafty list of cocktails. El Gato Gab Gab is part of the family of restaurants that brough Vancouver the delicious eats of Bar Susu, Published on Main, and Mama Said Pizza.
Where: 2650 Main St.
Barra Gitano
Barra Gitano popped up on Davie Street last summer with a menu of vibrant and authentic Mexican cuisine. Warm yourselves on a chilly winter day in Vancouver or over the Christmas season with small plates, tacos, margaritas, and other craft cocktails. From Barra Gitano’s savoury dishes to the sweeter side of the menu, it is almost a guarantee you and your party leave full and satisfied.
Where: 1202 Davie St.
Jinmi
Book your spot with one of the newest eateries in Vancouver for fusion Asian dining. Jinmi have a menu of South Korean and Pacific Northwest fusion plates to indulge in and try within their cozy dining area. The reservation-only restaurant currently have availability throughout December, including Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve! Their menu includes both lunch and dinner service.
Where: 854 Denman St.
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Tequila Lounge
The Tequila Lounge, one of Gastown’s newest Mexican restaurants, are open for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Make the holidays a little extra special with a new dining experience at the Tequila Lounge including classic Mexican fare with the restaurant’s unique twist. The holiday celebrations can continue much later past dinner the Tequila Lounge which transforms into a dance club after the kitchen closes for the night.
Where: 136 W Cordova St.
Holiday Pop-up Bars
Get right into the holiday spirit with festive spirits! These holiday pop-up bars in Vancouver offer a limited chance to experience the magic of the holidays under the soft lights, the holiday décor, and with the Christmas music sure to be playing.
- The Jingle Bar (Hotel Le Soleil, December 1-29, 2024)
- Bar Humbug (Ballyhoo Public House, December 3-31, 2024)
