Best West End 2015

Best West End Restaurant winners of Vancouver Magazine’s 26th Annual Restaurant Awards

• Gold: Kingyo
• Silver: Nook
• Bronze: Buckstop
• Honourable Mentions: España, Damso Modern Korean

 Several years into its happily brisk operation, Kingyo (Gold) still manages to feel like the liveliest spot in which to spend a Friday night. Bring a crowd to sample lots of the $10-and-under dishes, and don’t leave without an order of the self-proclaimed “invincible and undefeated” tantan noodles in an elevated pork and shrimp broth. Insiders choose a seat at the bar at Nook (Silver), where, over a dish of creamy burrata paired with salty prosciutto, you can watch the prep master fly through orders of charcuterie and antipasto. Pastas and pizzas are perfectly sauced and perfectly fresh, the wine list short but smart. Buckstop (Bronze) is just the kind of spot locals wish for more of in this ’hood: a narrow, bustling room that keeps the menu simple (you’re here for barbecue and bourbon) and the hours late. Come back to chase down last night’s outing with the (also meat-forward) brunch: eggs Benny sees pulled pork piled high over homemade cornbread with a side of hash. Honourable Mentions: España, Damso Modern Korean