Best New Restaurants in Vancouver 2022

GOLD: Bar Susu, 209 E 6th Avenue

SILVER: Collective Goods, 3532 Commercial Street

BRONZE: Elephant, 1879 Powell Street

Bar Susu

Here’s the thing about restaurant pop-ups: no matter their wild success or legions of adoring fans, it’s understood that they’ll eventually, well, pop down. But inside The Whip’s former Mount Pleasant haunt, there’s Bar Susu, the pop-up concept that popped off—and became a natural wine bar that’s loved not for its novelty or “get it while you can”-ness, but for the way it feels like both a secret neighbourhood gem and a Vancouver destination all at once. Chef Gus Stieffenhofer- Brandson, who helped develop the eclectic menu alongside chef de cuisine Ashley Kurtz, is this year’s Vanmag Chef of the Year—and his highly creative yet unpretentious approach to local ingredients shows itself in each thoughtful, technique-driven shared plate. Dishes juxtapose familiar warmth with unexpected ingredients (for instance, a fresh honey cruller topped with a dreamy duck liver parfait or smoked lamb belly served alongside minted grains and garlic-forward labneh).

Collective Goods

Following Bar Susu closely is silver winner Collective Goods, a “French-ish” hybrid concept that’s part neighbourhood bistro, part grocer, serving refined but never fussy dishes that pair traditional sauces with seasonal ingredients; in sum, a spot that exemplifies how Vancouverites are eating right now.

Elephant

With only 18 seats, Elephant is one of the city’s smallest rooms—but that’s part of the charm. This year’s bronze winner offers vibrant, produce-forward omakase and exceptional natural wine. 

Want More Restaurant Award Winners? Read Them All Here