Next Big Thing: New Restaurants Opening in Vancouver for 2025
As the year 2025 approaches, the culinary landscape in Vancouver is set to transform. A series of exciting new openings are poised to bring inventive menus, unique concepts, and thrilling dining experiences to the city. Here’s a sneak peek into some of the most anticipated new restaurants hitting Vancouver.
Jay Nok Modern Thai
Following a long and esteemed career at SalaThai, beloved for 38 years, the Kongslip family brings Jay Nok Modern Thai to Olympic Village. Located at 127 W 2nd Ave in the former Flying Pig space, the new venture combines traditional Thai street food with a modern twist. Led by Bobby Kongslip and his wife, Executive Chef Bumpen “Jay Nok” Khangrang, the restaurant aims to cater to contemporary diners while honoring the family’s culinary legacy.
During the day, Jay Nok offers fast-casual lunches and turns into a vibrant social spot with cocktails and shared plates by night. This evolution represents a fresh continuance of the Kongslip family’s commitment to exquisite Thai cuisine.
June
The team behind the acclaimed Keefer Bar is behind new venture June, a restaurant and cocktail bar set to open in early 2025. Situated at 3305 Cambie St (formerly Biercraft), June’s vision is to create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the essence of nature. Reimagined by Mexico City-based architect Héctor Esrawe, the 150-seat space is a complete departure from its previous incarnation.
Guests can look forward to excellent food and drinks, along with a personal, memorable experience. Chef Connor Sperling and award-winning mixologist Amber Bruce are crafting menus that promise to be both enjoyable and extraordinary.
Folietta
Folietta, from the Wentworth Hospitality Group, is a contemporary Italian ristorante and bar set to open at 1480 Nanaimo St in East Vancouver’s Grandview-Woodlands. Known for their French-inspired spots, such as Tableau and Homer St. Cafe, Wentworth is pivoting to Italian cuisine with Executive Chef Bobby Milheron and Chef de Cuisine Imtiaaz Patel at the helm.
Offering a variety of regional Italian dishes, from house-made pasta to Bistecca Fiorentina, Folietta ensures there’s something for everyone, including a dedicated kids’ menu. The 130-seat space, designed by Ste Marie, features an open kitchen, multiple dining areas, and a semi-enclosed patio. The robust bar program includes Italian-inspired cocktails,Negronis on tap, and Amaro Shave Ice.
Chez Celine
St. Lawrence, Vancouver’s acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant, is behind the new French concept, Chez Celine, to debut in the Fraserhood in spring 2025. The restaurant will likely operate at the location previously occupied by Say Mercy! It continues to positionSt. Lawrence as a leader in French cuisine in Vancouver, amidst other notable neighbors such as Masayoshi, Bar Bravo, Zab Bite, and Nammos Estiatorio.
Chef/owner J-C Poirier’s pedigree and dynamic neighborhood environment make Chez Celine a must-watch as we approach 2025, ensuring a unique addition to the city’s dining scene.
Toptable Group
The former site of Browns Socialhouse in Kitsilano might soon host a new venture by Vancouver-based Toptable. Known for its high-profile restaurants like Elisa, Blue Water, and Cin Cin, Toptable plans to occupy the corner space that Browns Socialhouse once called home.
While initial buzz suggested an outpost of Provisions, the popular all-day café from Toptable’s Whistler location, a rep from Toptable confirmed that these plans are still under consideration and could be subject to change. Regardless, the new venture is anticipated to be a noteworthy addition to the Kitsilano neighborhood.
Saijo Kushiyaki & Handroll
Saijo, a concept under the Jinya restaurant family renowned for their Los Angeles-based Robata Jinya, plans to open its first Vancouver location at 2036 W 4th Ave in Kitsilano in 2025. The restaurant will serve Japanese charcoal-grilled skewers and sushi bar selections, offering a unique dining experience in the area.
Din Tai Fung – Vancouver
Vancouver’s first Din Tai Fung restaurant, a global chain known for its masterful Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), is set to open at 1132 Alberni St in 2025. Despite an initial anticipated 2024 launch, the restaurant website indicates it is still “coming soon.”
Din Tai Fung’s menu includes a wide range of traditional Chinese favorites, including a cucumber salad, assorted dumplings and buns, noodle dishes, milk tea, and dessert dumplings, making it a promising addition to the city’s dining scene.
Aureliana
While details are limited, Aureliana hints at a nostalgic 80s and 90s theme, featuring neon lights and classic tunes, with a waiter in 60s diner attire holding a hamburger on its website. The restaurant’s prime location adds to its potential appeal, promising to be a unique addition to Vancouver’s culinary offerings.
Time Out Market Vancouver
Vancouver’s Time Out Market, modeled after the successful concept in Montreal, is set to open within the Oakridge mall redevelopment in 2025. This upscale food court features curated dining options, local chefs, and a vibrant atmosphere, including dim lights, pulsing music, and a bar.
While the exact food vendors are not yet known, the market promises to be a unique and dynamic dining experience, likely becoming a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
What to Expect in 2025
The year 2025 promises a rich tapestry of new dining experiences in Vancouver. From the fusion of Thai tradition and modernity to the vibrant energy of French and Japanese cuisine, each new restaurant offers a unique twist on the culinary scene. These openings are set to spice up the city’s food district, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
As we look forward to these exciting ventures, it’s clear that Vancouver’s dining scene will continue to evolve, offering innovative dishes and unforgettable experiences.
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