Established in 2005, the Vancouver Aquarium’s Ocean Wise program is gradually taking Vancouver, and cities all over Canada, by storm. For those who don’t know, the Ocean Wise program is a VanAqua’s initiative to keep oceans safe by working directly with those in the restaurant industry, including markets, food services, and seafood suppliers, by informing them with the most current scientific information on sustainable seafood, in order to aid them in making informed buying decisions. The Ocean Wise symbol can be found next to menu items that include sustainable seafood, making it easy for guests to make ocean-friendly dining choices! Here are 7 of our favorite Ocean Wise dining establishments:
If you’re looking for delicious food paired with excellent service, look no further. West Restaurant and Bar has epitomized contemporary Canadian cuisine. Known as one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Vancouver by locals and tourists alike, West is a high end dining staple. You’ll find beautifully plated enjoyable food, made with quality ingredients along with inviting staff.Our favorite Ocean Wise dish: Haida Gwaii Sablefish
The very first of its kind to join the Ocean Wise program in 2010, Hapa Izakaya has made a wave in the culinary industry. With its introduction to Vancouver’s culinary scene in 2003, the Japanese izakaya chain is a local favorite. The quality of service and food is kept at a high standard with multiple locations found in Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto.Our favorite Ocean Wise dish: Negitoro (Chopped Albacore Tuna) Served with Garlic Toast
If you didn’t know already, Miku and Minami are sister restaurants, all under the infamous Aburi Restaurant Group. Known for their unique take on Japanese cuisine and aburi style sushi, the Aburi Group’s namesake is no coincidence. With prime locations along Coal Harbour’s waterfront, and in trendy Yaletown, the two restaurants have a little bit of something for everybody.
Image via Miku RestarantOur favorite Ocean Wise dish: Aburi Salmon Oishi
At CinCin, you’ll find a little piece of Italy along Vancouver’s iconic Robson Street. Come for a dinner and show; CinCin houses an open kitchen, with a massive wood fire grill. Not your thing? No problem, they also have a beautiful patio that offers a view of Robson’s bustling street.Our favorite Ocean Wise dish: Charcoal Grilled Albacore Tuna
Offering a taste of France in the heart of Yaletown, Provence Marinaside is the place for dinner with a priceless view of False Creek. Artfully blending European influences with West Coast Cuisine, Provence Marinaside’s offers unpretentious food in an elegant setting. They also partake in seasonal events like the Tomato Festival and Spot Prawn Festival!Our favorite Ocean Wise dish: Steamed Mussels and Clams
Found along Main Street’s Restaurant Row, Bodega on Main is a welcome addition to Vancouver’s Spanish restaurant scene. They offer classics like paella and their famous Patatas Bravas (fried potatoes covered in a zesty dressing). With a focus on simplicity, Bodega on Main reinvents classic Spanish tapas with their own twist.Our favorite Ocean Wise dish: Pulpo A La Parilla aka Grilled Octopus
Awarded a coveted VanMag Award, Royal Dinette was named 2016's best new restaurant. Though Royal Dinette is fairly new to the dining scene, it is all about sustainability. 95% of their ingredients are local and organic. Their produce is from local farms, their meat is free range and non medicated, and all their seafood is Ocean Wise!Our favorite Ocean Wise dish: Baked Ling Cod
We hope you enjoy these fantastic ocean wise restaurants!
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“In the labor numbers, we were reporting about a $300 to $400 difference than what we were getting through Push!”
-Tara Hardie, ZZA Hospitality Group, 16 locations
