Vancouver, Washington, is a gem for foodies waiting to be discovered. This city is not just known for its rich history and stunning landscapes but also for its enticing and diverse food scene.
Whether you’re seeking an elegant, upscale dining experience, a casual and welcoming ambiance in a neighborhood restaurant, budget-friendly yet scrumptious meals, or something new, the Vancouver restaurant scene will not disappoint.
So, let’s take a journey through the top 14 restaurants in Vancouver, Washington.
1. Cecilia
Address: 2520 Columbia House Blvd #108, Vancouver, WA 98661
Cecilia, a slightly costly restaurant serving Mexican, American, and European cuisine from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM, stands out for its excellent service and memorable food.
Service is consistently good, contributing to an overall pleasant dining experience. If you’re looking for a new favorite place for brunch, Cecilia might just be it.
This spot might surprise you with its prices at first glance, especially if you’re accustomed to paying such rates at upscale restaurants. However, I assure you that the quality of the food justifies the cost. The Chicken Fried Steak is a standout dish, noted for its well-cooked and flavorful presentation.
But it’s not just the main dishes that shine at Cecilia; the brunch offerings are popular as well. The Espresso Martini and Chilaquiles are frequently mentioned as must-tries, known for their delicious taste that’ll make you lick your plate clean.
2. The Cove
Address: 5731 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661
If you’re a fan of seafood, delicious desserts, and exquisite cocktail bars, make sure to visit The Cove. Open from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, this seafood place might be a bit costly, but diners say it’s well worth the price.
Their halibut fish and chips have won my and many other people’s hearts. The staff here is welcoming and always ready to help, making your visit as enjoyable as possible. Plus, the views are stunning from the windows! You get to see boats docking and, if you’re lucky, a spectacular sunset.
Their weekend brunch is a hit, especially the crab cake benedict paired with tasty potatoes. But be warned, the steak might not be to everyone’s liking. Some found it tough and lacking in flavor.
3. Slow Fox
Address: 108 E 7th St Vancouver, WA 98660
Slow Fox, an American bar offering delectable meals at very affordable prices, is the perfect embodiment of a hidden gem in Vancouver. Its doors are open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
The staff at Slow Fox are very warm and friendly, efficiently catering to everyone’s needs, making for an overall pleasant dining experience. The ambiance is also noted for its casual charm. While the interior dining area gives off a nostalgic high-school cafeteria vibe, the outdoor seating provides a more serene and enjoyable dining environment.
There are plenty of things to love at Slow Fox, especially their special chili and the lentil chili mac and cheese. What sets them apart is their unique flavor profiles and meticulous preparation. The restaurant also offers a refreshing strawberry salad, which has surprisingly generous servings of strawberries and a perfectly balanced dressing.
4. Amaro’s Table – Downtown Vancouver
Address: 1220 Main St Ste 100 Vancouver, WA 98660
Amaro’s Table – Downtown Vancouver, a pricier American Bar, stands tall in its commitment to excellent food and attentive service, even during its busiest hours. It opens for lunch and dinner from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
The modern, sharp aesthetic of Amaro’s Table is visually pleasing, setting the tone for a sophisticated dining experience. The venue’s attractiveness is only further enhanced by the proficient and friendly staff.
But the true star at Amaro’s Table is the food and drinks. From their perfectly balanced cocktails to the unforgettable fried chicken that has customers lining their wallets up, every dish is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication.
5. La Bottega
Address: 1220 Main St Ste 100 Vancouver, WA 98660
La Bottega, an affordable Deli, Wine Bar, and Italian restaurant open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM in Vancouver, evokes mixed feelings among its customers.
Great food is not without its flaws. Despite the beautiful ambiance and flavorful meals, the service has been a point of contention for some visitors. Several people express dissatisfaction with the restaurant’s wait staff.
Although the restaurant is known for its great food. La Bottega serves a variety of Italian dishes that have left patrons coming back for more. The Mac and cheese, penne alla vodka, and smoked mushroom ravioli are just a few of the fan favorites. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list and cellar, adding a touch of elegance to the dining experience.
6. Winston’s British Fish N Chips
Address: 2711 NE Andresen Rd Vancouver, WA 98661
Salty’s on the Columbia River, a seafood and traditional American food truck, is open from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It may be worth noting that it might be a bit pricey for a food truck, depending on what you order.
The outdoor deck offers stunning views of the Columbia River, turning your meal into a memorable experience. However, be aware that the tranquil ambiance might occasionally be disrupted by the roar of F-16s flying by.
The food is consistently great, and the drinks recommendations are appreciated, especially when they come from the friendly, helpful staff.
The restaurant’s menu is diverse and inviting. Their dishes, including their Caesar salads, oysters Rockefeller, shrimp Louis salad, raw oysters, seafood chowder, and salmon, are fresh, simple, and beautifully presented. The Caesar salad, in particular, has garnered popularity, with some customers because its dressing is some of the best.
7. El Gaucho Vancouver
Address: 510 Waterfront Wy, Vancouver, WA 98660
El Gaucho Vancouver, a stylish steakhouse and cocktail bar, opens its doors from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. While there are certain elements that customers appreciate, some aspects of the dining experience seem to need improvement.
The restaurant excels in providing a refined, elegant atmosphere with dimly lit lights and smooth jazz playing in the background, setting the stage for a relaxing and sophisticated dining experience. The service is also praised for being excellent, further adding to the restaurant’s charm.
However, on the food front, the offerings are a bit of a mixed bag. The 4oz filet mignon and Dungeness crab cakes are highly recommended, seasoned well, and cooked to perfection. The wine list is also commendable, featuring selections that pair well with the steak.
However, some people have found issues with their other meals. The lobster mashed potatoes have been described as overly salty and oversized for single servings. Furthermore, some have noted a lack of lobster in the dish, despite the abundance of sauce.
8. La Provence
Address: 17719 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98683
La Provence, a charming bakery offering French food from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, provides an intriguing mix of breakfast meals, lunch meals, and snacks.
Service at La Provence is often impeccable. Their friendly demeanor and spot-on recommendations significantly elevate the dining experience.
A delightful standout at La Provence is the banana French toast, which seems to have won over patrons’ hearts with its exquisite flavor. The Pink Lady pastry, despite its mystifying composition, is intriguing and generally well-received.
However, the baguettes might not live up to expectations. The pricing has drawn some scrutiny, with some finding the $5 baguettes and $17 French toast a bit steep.
9. WildFin American Grill
Address: 777 Waterfront Wy #101, Vancouver, WA 98660
WildFin American Grill, serving American and seafood dishes from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, might require a reconsideration of their offerings based on the feedback of some recent diners. This affordable restaurant seems to face some challenges with its food quality.
Some customers have noted that the fish served was overcooked and tasteless. Likewise, the pasta has been described as dry and not living up to its description on the menu. There was also disappointment regarding the tacos, described as messy, and the fish used in the risotto dish was unfavorably compared to fried bread rather than lightly seasoned fish.
However, it’s not all criticism. The ribs have been liked because they are well prepared, and the staff’s friendliness and pleasant demeanor have been appreciated as well. Despite this, the general consensus from these diners is that they are unlikely to return due to issues with food quality and value.
10. The Great North
Address: 602 N Devine Rd, Vancouver, WA 98661
The Great North, an affordable spot offering American cuisine and seafood from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, has garnered a fantastic reputation for its delightful breakfast offerings and exceptional service.
The Great North also offers a well-decorated, appropriate ambiance that aligns with the local area. Inside has plenty of plants and a cabin-like feel. This place comes highly recommended by patrons for its delightful food, top-tier coffee, and excellent service.
Praised for its delicious coffee, this place is an amazing spot for those who appreciate a well-brewed cup to start their day. If you’re looking for a light, healthy breakfast, their chia pudding comes highly recommended as well. The breakfast sandwich is another popular option and is sure to satisfy any morning cravings.
The Great North is also appreciated for the exceptional customer service provided by their staff, Marianne and Jayden. They can help with everything from choosing delicious meals to recommending a spot in town to visit.
11. Scratch Breakfast
Address: 1300 Washington St Vancouver, WA 98660
If you’re in search of a vegan-friendly breakfast spot with a relaxed vibe, Scratch Breakfast in Vancouver is the place for you. This unique eatery, operating from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, is not only affordable but also boasts a cool venue that will make your brunch experience memorable.
The food at Scratch is an all-vegan delight, with gluten-free options like pancakes and bread also available. Patrons rave about the breakfast sandwich and the blueberry French toast, although the latter is quite generously drenched in blueberry sauce – something you may want to consider ordering on the side.
12. El Viejon Taqueria & Mariscos
Address: 705 SE Park Crest Ave D430, Vancouver, WA 98683
For those with a liking for authentic Mexican cuisine, El Viejon Taqueria & Mariscos, open from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, is an excellent choice that promises affordable foods.
Although the wait time can be a bit long at times, even when there’s not a crowd, it seems to be a small price to pay for the impressive quality of their food. It’s no wonder customers keep coming back for more of their delicious offerings.
I really liked their Carne Asada tacos, and their birria ramen also stands out. Not only is it packed with plenty of meat, but it’s also served in generous portions that offer great value for money. Just remember to enjoy it quickly to prevent the noodles from getting soggy in the hot broth.
While they may be a newcomer on the food scene and their taco prices might be a tad higher than at other food trucks, El Viejon Taqueria & Mariscos has managed to carve a niche for itself with its delicious foods.
13. The Sedgwick
Address: 801 Washington St Vancouver, WA 98660
If you find yourself in Vancouver craving a variety of small plates, a visit to The Sedgwick should be on your list. Operating from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, The Sedgwick is known for its affordable yet exceptional salads, wine, and cocktails.
The ambiance is characterized as cool and not overly loud, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience. Despite being fairly small, customers generally report no trouble getting a table. On the service front, the staff here is always helpful, making the dining experience enjoyable
The food consistently gets spectacular reviews, with the burger being proclaimed as one of the best around. The Brie, steak, and Mac and cheese also come highly recommended by patrons. The bread accompanying the Brie is a standout as well. It is difficult to stop eating once you’ve started.
For a well-rounded dining experience complete with tasty food, refreshing drinks, and excellent service, The Sedgwick is a must-visit. Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, it’s sure to leave a positive impression.
14. Coast to Coast Fish House
Address: 19206 SE 1st Ste 102. Camas, WA 98607
Coast to Coast Fish House, an affordable seafood restaurant open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, has won over people with its delicious cuisine and excellent service. The chef, in particular, earns high praise for the world-class fried oysters, which are a must-try for any seafood lover.
Also highly recommended is the clam chowder, noted for its fresh taste that leaves diners craving for more. The promise of excellent clams on the menu has many vowing to return.
Visitors who have been fortunate enough to dine at Coast to Coast Fish House speak highly of the clam strips, regarded as some of the best in the area, thanks to their light breading and tender texture.
