Spring is in full swing, bringing fresh flavours and exciting culinary experiences across Metro Vancouver.
In April and May (and beyond) there are plenty of ways to sip, savour, and support local restaurants, chefs, and businesses.
From a whimsical globally-inspired afternoon tea to a special menu celebrating Canadian ingredients, plus an exciting food truck festival and a limited-edition pop-ups there’s something for every palate.
Whether you’re in the mood for a winemakers' dinner or seeking sakura inspired treats, these upcoming events in and around Vancouveroffer the perfect way to explore the city’s ever-evolving food and drink scene.
Apprentice Dinner Series at Chambar
Chambar is launching its inaugural Apprentice Dinner Series this April, celebrating mentorship, creativity, and rising culinary talent. Each month, a promising young chef will craft a menu inspired by their heritage under the guidance of co-founder Chef Nico Schuermans. The series kicks off on April 1, with Chef Nikola Janitsova, who will present a Slovak-inspired feast featuring dishes like filo tart with ling cod rillette and roasted pork tenderloin with klobasa and sauerkraut spätzle. Future dinners will highlight Nepalese and Belgian influences, with long-table experiences priced at $65 per person. Dishes will be available as part of a set menu available to diners for the rest of the month.
This initiative, part of Chambar’s legacy of fostering talent offers guests a unique opportunity to connect with emerging chefs and their stories. Reservations for the launch dinner are now open.
When: April 1 at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Chambar - 568 Beatty St
Cost: $65 per person. Reserve online.
Karen-tainer Day at Container Brewing
Don't stop by Container Brewing for a bevvy on April 1 unless you can handle some serious staff from the staff, who have been getting ready for the brewery's annual "Karen" day. Come through for an all-day "UN" Happy Hour — that's $2 off full pours and cans, all day long, served with a side of playful cheek from the crew.
When: Tuesday, April 1
Where: Container Brewing - 1216 Franklin St
Oh Canada menu at The Flying Pig
The Flying Pig will launch an "Oh Canada" menu on April 2, featuring local, fresh, and seasonal ingredients to celebrate Canadian products. The menu will change every 30 days, maintaining a Canadian theme to support local producers.
For the debut April menu, appetizers will include fried B.C. oysters with pickle and dill dip, Alberta beef croquettes, PEI mussels and spicy frites, and Canadian bison carpaccio. For main courses, there will be Fraser Valley game hen with smashed B.C. potatoes, B.C. ling cod with local prawn risotto, and PEI beef cheek ragu with red wine-braised beef cheek and pappardelle. Desserts include Quebec maple sugar pie, based on an old family recipe. The feature cocktail, the Okanagan Sunrise, is made with Reifel rye, elderflower, apple, lemon, and sparkling wine. The wine selection includes options by the glass and bottle, highlighting B.C. wineries like Monte Creek and Burrowing Owl.
When: Changes monthly, starting April 2
Where: The Flying Pig - 1168 Hamilton St.
Slay the Night: Drag & Drinks at Papi's
Carlotta Gurl and Phyllis Hull will take the stage for a dazzling drag dinner at the West End seafood spot. Reservations available online.
When: April 2 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Where: Papi's Seafood & Oyster Bar - 1193 Denman St.
In the Heights: Ned Bell and Kurtis Kolt Pop-Up
Chef Ned Bell and sommelier Kurtis Kolt are teaming up for a 12-night seafood-centric pop-up at The Gray Olive Cafeteria in Burnaby Heights, running Thursdays through Saturdays from April 3 to 26. Bell, known for his work with Ocean Wise and food sustainability initiatives, is making a return to restaurant cooking with a menu featuring dishes like wild Pacific albacore tuna tacos, creamy geoduck and halibut chowder, and roasted wild Pacific halibut. Kolt has curated a lineup of non-alcoholic pairings, including zero-proof wines, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic beer.
When: Thursday-Saturday, April 3-26, from 5:30 p.m.
Where: The Gray Olive Cafeteria - 4190 Hastings St, Burnaby
Cost: $99 includes three-course dinner, gratuity, GST and Eventbrite fees; tickets available on Eventbrite
Art Dinner Series at Honey Salt with Deville
Executive Chef Johann Caner is teaming up with local artist Deville for the third installment of the restaurant's Art-Dinner Series, taking place on Thursday, April 3, at Parq Casino in Vancouver. The evening begins with canapés followed by a four-course set menu created by Caner, inspired by Deville's distinctive art. Deville, known for her pen-and-ink art depicting intricate worlds and unique characters, will be present to interact with guests and create an original work of art during the event, which will later be auctioned off to benefit Growing Chefs!, a local organization focused on sustainable food practices and community health.
The menu reflects Caner’s dedication to fresh, local ingredients and is designed to complement Deville's minimalist art style, featuring dishes such as Tourteau aux Fromage with golden tomato jam, shrimp and black garlic dumplings, Wagyu beef cheek, and a canvas of mignardises for dessert. The evening offers a unique fusion of culinary and visual art, celebrating creativity and local talent.
When: April 3 at 6 p.m.
Where: Honey Salt - 39 Smithe St (at Parq Vancouver)
Cost: $95 per person (plus tax and gratuity). B.C. wine pairings available for $45 per person.
Oyster Shucking 101 at Fanny Bay
Hosted by Bad Academy in partnership with Girls That Shuck and led by industry expert Malindi Taylor, this hands-on workshop exclusively for women and gender-non-conforming people will teach you everything you need to know to shuck oysters like a pro. You’ll compare different oyster species and their flavour profiles, shuck a dozen oysters, and take home a new shucking knife, along with a Bad Academy sticker pack. The session includes the opportunity to eat 18-24 oysters and learn top shucking tips to impress at your next dinner party. Optional drink pairings, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, will also be available at an additional cost. All materials are provided for a fun and educational experience.
When: April 3 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Where: Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market - 762 Cambie St
Cost: $125 per person. Purchase tickets online.
Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival - UBC
The Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival is rolling in 21 vendors to the Commons in front of the AMS Student Nest on April 3 and 4, showcasing a smorgasbord of international street cuisine.
The line-up includes favourites on wheels like Chickpea, Shameless Buns, Say Cheese, Crema, and many more. Admission is free and the event will take place rain or shine, so grab your wallet and your umbrella if there are April showers.
When: April 3-4, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: UBC Commons in front of AMS Nest - 6133 University Blvd
Cost: Admission is free
Around the World in 80 Days Afternoon Tea at H Tasting Lounge
This travel-inspired afternoon tea will whisk you away on a virtual world tour. Pay tribute to Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, following in the footsteps of the legendary Phileas Fogg. Experience faraway lands through the flavours of tea and an enchanting selection of sweet and savoury treats — where tradition takes a backseat to adventure.
Rather than the usual finger sandwiches, this globally inspired experience reimagines afternoon tea with bold and unexpected flavours. Nibble on Parisian macarons, taste the bright spices of India with chocolate cardamom cake, and take a virtual trip to Hong Kong with a deconstructed pork spring roll. Elevate your journey with fine Champagne by the glass or bottle, or explore an exquisite selection of black, white, green, oolong, and herbal teas from O-Five Rare Tea and Tea Leaves. A children's menu is available, featuring cotton candy, scones, bite-sized tea sandwiches, s’mores pie, and more.
When: Weekends, now through May 10
Where: H Tasting Lounge - 1601 Bayshore Dr
Cost: $75 per adult; $50 per child; prepaid for parties of 1 to 6. Reservations via Tock
Sipping Around B.C. Dinner Series at L'Abattoir
L'Abattoir’s popular Sipping Around B.C. dinner series returns, expanding to explore even more of British Columbia’s diverse wine regions. Presented in partnership with S. Pellegrino, each dinner brings together top BC winemakers and winery principals for an evening of expertly paired food and wine, celebrating terroir, microclimates, and the unique varietals shaping BC’s wine industry. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase featured wines at cellar door pricing. Tickets for each dinner will be available in the month before the event, with priority access for past attendees. Tickets for the first dinner on April 4 are now available.
When:
- Friday, April 4: Naramata Bench (Little Engine Wines, MacIntyre Heritage Reserve, Terravista Vineyards)
- Friday, June 13: Similkameen Valley (Clos du Soleil Winery, Orofino Vineyard, Little Farm Winery)
- Thursday, October 23: B.C. Islands (Averill Creek Vineyard, Unsworth Vineyards, Kutatás Wines)
Where: L'Abattoir (Private Dining Room) - 217 Carrall St
Cost: $195 per guest plus tax and gratuity. Purchase tickets online.
Oaxacan Menu at Ophelia
Ophelia’s Executive Chef Francisco Higareda is showcasing the flavours of Oaxaca with a limited-time Oaxaca Regional Menu, available nightly until Sunday, April 6. This $60 three-course menu highlights the diverse ingredients and culinary traditions of one of Mexico’s most celebrated food regions, featuring staples like corn, beans, chile peppers, Oaxacan cheese, and mezcal. Guests can also opt for an Oaxacan Sunset cocktail ($15) or a Mezcal Species Flight ($35), featuring a trio of mezcals from Santiago Matatlán, known for its deep mezcal-making traditions.
When: Through Sunday, April 6
Where: Ophelia - 165 W 2nd Ave
Cost: $60 per person. Reserve online.
The Secret Garden at the H Tasting Lounge
The clear, cozy outdoor domes of H Tasting Lounge have been reimagined for 2025 with the whimsy of vintage air travel in mind. From March 5 to May 11, take a spring voyage to this dreamy, imagination-sparking landscape where pastel-hued hot air balloons float overhead, cascading floral garlands drape from above, and flower-adorned archways invite you in. Each panoramic dome is equipped with a sound system, adjustable heaters, and everything needed for up to six guests to dine in comfort. At lunch or in the evening, savour cocktails and modern-coastal cuisine while taking in the beautiful waterfront views. Reservations are available via Tock. Please note, minimum spends of $150 to $300 apply.
When: Lunch and dinner daily from now through May 11
Where: H Tasting Lounge - 1601 Bayshore Dr
Mission Hill Wine Dinner at The Teahouse
Since 1981, Mission Hill has been a trailblazer in elevating the Okanagan Valley to world-class status, earning international acclaim. Indulge in a five-course dinner, each dish thoughtfully paired with selections from their acclaimed Reserve collection. The West Coast-inspired menu features fresh, local produce and seasonal ingredients, with pairings that highlight the perfect combination of local flavors and exceptional wines. Menu highlights include beet and goat cheese tart with 2023 Exhilaration Brut Rosé, sablefish cakes with 2021 Reserve Chardonnay, salmon Wellington with 2021 Reserve Pinot Noir, a blood orange sorbet topped with mezcal as a palate cleanser, beef striploin with 2021 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, and a lemon meringue pie with 2017 Reserve Riesling Icewine for dessert.
When: April 9 at 6 p.m.
Where: The Teahouse in Stanley Park - 7501 Stanley Park Dr.
Cost: $172.22 per person. Reserve online.
Vino & Vibes: Burger Edition at Wildlight
Wildlight Kitchen + Bar wine director Michael Cooke has sourced some hard-to-get wines and will be pouring them alongside some delicious food, specifically burgers. Diners can expect a fun, chill vibe and a casual tasting of multiple vintages from a few wine producers on three different nights, all while enjoying one of Wildlight's juicy burgers.
The schedule is as follows:
- April 9: Chablis/White Burgundy & Fried Chicken Burger
- April 23: Brunello & Aussie Burger
When: April 9 and 23, 2025.
Where: Wildlight - 5380 University Blvd.
Cost: $99 per person. Reservations and pre-payment via OpenTable
Dine Chilliwack
Celebrating the vibrant local culinary scene with Dine Chilliwack, running from April 11 to 27. Tourism Chilliwack's two-week event offers two-for-one deals, prix fixe menus, and more at various local restaurants, wine bars, breweries, and attractions. Some of the participating establishments include Fortitude Wine Bar, Farmhouse Brewing Co., The Lakeside Beach Club, Kelly O’Bryan’s, Duke’s Country Pub, and Hugo’s Mexican Kitchen, among others. Other participating locations include Elevated Pizza, Bravo Restaurant & Lounge, Sidekick Brewing, Hana Sushi, and more, with new businesses being added daily on the Tourism Chilliwack website.
As part of a cross-promotion, diners can collect stamps on their Dine Chilliwack Passport, which can be redeemed for two-for-one entry to the Sweet Spring Flower Festival at Greendale Acres or the Botanica Tulip Festival.
When: April 11 to 27
Where: Participating venues in Chilliwack, B.C.
Vegan Night Market
Fans of plant-based food and products should have the Vegan Market on their radar. The market, which features everything from food to clothing to skincare products to books, has set dates for two Wednesday night events in East Van at the Waldorf on April 16. Entrance is $4 or a donation of canned goods, clothing, or pet food. Shop from 45+ vendors, and enjoy live music, bonfires, giveaways, and "soy" much more.
When: April 16 from 6-9:30 p.m.
Where: Waldorf Hotel - 1489 E Hastings St
Cost: $4 or a donation of canned goods, clothing, or pet food
Four Hands Dinner at Elem
Elem is hosting its first-ever "Four Hands" collaboration dinner on April 16, featuring award-winning chef Ron McKinlay (formerly of Canoe) and Elem chef-owner Vish Mayekar. This exclusive evening will highlight the combined culinary skills of the two chefs with a five-course menu (plus snacks). Optional cocktail pairings by beverage director and partner Winnie Sun and wine pairings by sommelier Daniel Klintworth are also available.
When: April 16
Where: Elem - 2110 Main St
Cost: Tickets are $225 plus tax and tip per person. Tickets available online via the restaurant.
Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea at Notch8
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s beloved Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea returns for the season, offering an elegant tribute to the beauty of sakura. This exquisite experience features a curated selection of teas, handcrafted pastries, and savoury bites, all delicately adorned with cherry blossom-inspired touches. Highlights include Morello cherry and buttermilk scones, pork menchi katsu sandwiches, sakura matcha mousse cake, and specialty floral teas. Enhance the experience with sakura-infused cocktails for a truly indulgent springtime treat.
When: Now through May 25; Wednesday to Sunday, seatings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. (excluding March 8-9, April 20; open on Monday, April 21)
Where: Notch8 at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver - 900 W Georgia St
Cost: $75 per adult, $45 per child (ages 12 and under)
Half-price bottles of B.C. wine at Belgard Kitchen
Belgard Kitchen is making B.C. wines more accessible with 50% off bottles from its exclusively local wine list every Monday and Tuesday. A longtime champion of BC’s wine scene, Belgard has been highlighting the region’s top producers since opening in 2014. At a time when supporting local is more important than ever, this initiative offers an easy way to enjoy exceptional wines at an unbeatable value while directly supporting B.C. wineries.
When: Every Monday and Tuesday
Where: Belgard Kitchen – 55 Dunlevy Ave
Vancouver Cherry Blossom Food Festival
Organized by Noms Magazine, the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Food Festival is in its second year. Though it is not affiliated with the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, its spirit of sakura is the same (and anyone can most certainly take part in both). The event is once again bringing together several cafés and restaurants in Metro Vancouver who will feature special cherry blossom-inspired treats and drinks for a DIY multi-week event. From March 14 to April 27, you'll find special items on offer at nearly two dozen businesses spanning Vancouver, Richmond, and Burnaby.
When: March 14 to April 27
Where: Various locations in Vancouver, Burnaby, and Richmond
Sakura Sake Flights at Ancora
Cherry blossom season is here — toast to it with limited-edition Sakura Sake Flights inspired by the beauty of spring in bloom at both Ancora locations.
When: Now through April 28
Where: Ancora False Creek - 1600 Howe Street #2, Vancouver and Ambleside - 11351 Bellevue Ave, West Vancouver
Aprés Beach Happy Hour at Kits Beach Coffee
This daily happy hour, running from 4 to 6 p.m., invites beachgoers, locals, and visitors to enjoy the café's vibes. With a refreshing cocktail, beer or glass of wine, guests can unwind after a day in the sun or a busy workday. To make this even more convenient, the café will be extending its hours to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, ensuring that guests can enjoy their favourite drinks, food and baked goods all day long. The café plans to keep chasing the sunset with longer evening hours coming in May.
When: Daily from 4-6 p.m.
Where: Kits Beach Coffee - 1945 Cornwall Ave
All-Star Snack Part at DD Mau
DD Mau Chinatown is celebrating seven delicious years with an All-Star Snack Party on Sunday, April 20. This milestone event will feature a lineup of fan-favourite bites, including Corn Ribs, Shrimp Skewers, Charlie’s Fried Chicken Sliders, and Phở Gà Trộn, alongside creative cocktails like Grandma’s Tea and Hanoi Hannah. With great food, drinks, and live DJ sets, the evening promises to be a true tribute to DD Mau’s legacy and its beloved Chinatown community. Tickets are $59 and include a cocktail, all four snacks, tax, and gratuity, with additional food and drinks available for purchase.
When: Sunday, April 20. Seatings at 5:30, 6, 7:30, and 8 p.m.
Where: DD May - 145 E Pender St
Cost: $59 per person. Purchase tickets online via Eventbrite
Whisky & Words
Whisky & Words returns to Vancouver on Friday, April 25 for a night of unlimited pours of Canadian and international whisky and spirits. The event supports the Vancouver Writers Fest's year-round programming, as well as its flagship October festival.
This year, Whisky & Words is proud to welcome the following distillers to a classy evening of tantalizing drinks, good company, and a celebration of community:
- Liberty Distillery (BC on Granville Island)
- Alimentaria Mexicana (BC on Granville Island)
- Roots & Wings Distillery (BC)
- Shelter Point (BC)
- Central City Brewers & Distillers (BC)
- Odd Society Spirits (BC)
- Craftwork Spirits (AB)
- TS Global (Canada)
- Charton Hobbs (Canada/Scotland)
- Tomintoul (Scotland)
- Magnum Scotch Malt Whisky Cream Liqueur (Scotland)
- Whyte & MacKay (Scotland)
When: Friday, April 25. VIP hour 7-8 p.m.; general admission opens at 8 p.m. Event ends at 11 p.m.
Where: Performance Works, Granville Island
Cost: $125-$170. Purchase tickets online. 19+ only.
Taste Sound: An Immersive Dining Experience at Burdock & Co
Burdock & Co continues its Taste Sound dinner series with an evening of sonic gastronomy featuring musician and biologist Tarun Nayar (Modern Biology). On three upcoming dates, guests will experience Chef Andrea Carlson’s menus while listening to the bioelectric activity of its ingredients through biodata sonification. This multisensory collaboration explores the connection between taste and sound, offering a unique way to engage with food. Beverages available in addition include natural wines curated by Kelcie Jones, the Vancouver Michelin Guide’s 2023 Sommelier of the Year and a signature cocktail. The themes for the dinners in the series are Resin (May 22), Road Trip (Sept. 25) and Radicchio (Nov. 20). Tickets are on sale for all dinners in the series now.
When: May 22, Sept. 25, and Nov. 20, 2025
Where: Burdock & Co - 2702 Main St
Cost: $200 per person + tax & gratuity (includes a four-course meal and headphone rental). Reserve and pre-pay online.
Brewery & the Beast Vancouver
Brewery & the Beast returns to Vancouver on Sunday, July 27, bringing an afternoon of open-fire cooking, incredible food, and refreshing drinks to Concord Pacific Place. This highly anticipated annual event showcases some of the region’s top culinary talent, offering guests an all-you-can-enjoy experience featuring expertly grilled meats, seasonal sides, and a selection of wine, beer, cider, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages—all without the hassle of drink tickets. Live entertainment, a lively atmosphere, and the chance to watch chefs in action make it a true feast for the senses. For those looking to enhance their experience, the VIP tier offers exclusive early access, special dishes, and a private lounge. A full lineup of participating chefs and restaurants will be announced soon.
When: Sunday, July 27, 2025 from 2-5 p.m. (VIP lounge access opens at 1 p.m.)
Where: Concord Pacific Place - 88 Pacific Blvd
Cost: VIP Experience $299.95; Main Event $178.95 (plus taxes and fees). Tickets available online.
With files from Kyle Balzer and Brendan Kergin
Want to have your event included? Email lindsay@vancouverisawesome.com with the info and links.
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