Celebrate The Drive’s Restaurant Award Finalists!
Commercial Drive is no stranger to culinary excellence, and this year, several beloved local spots have been recognized as finalists for the prestigious 2025 Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards. These nominations highlight the diversity and quality of dining experiences that make The Drive a favourite destination for food lovers. Let’s take a moment to celebrate these businesses and encourage our community to support them by voting for these finalists. [ Photo Credit: Viet Family ]
Best African and Diaspora Restaurant Award Finalist
Baby Dahl Roti Shop
Known for its rich, flavourful Caribbean dishes, Baby Dahl Roti Shop brings authentic taste and warmth to Commercial Drive.
Best Casual Restaurant Award Finalists
Chancho Tortilleria
With its dedication to authentic Mexican flavours, Chancho Tortilleria is a go-to for handmade tortillas and vibrant dishes.
La Grotta del Formaggio
Loved for its legendary sandwiches and authentic Italian specialties, this gem in the heart of Little Italy on The Drive is a culinary haven for food enthusiasts.
Downlow Chicken Shack
A legend for its crispy, flavourful fried chicken, DownLow Chicken Shack is a staple for comfort food fans.
Best Japanese Restaurant Award Finalist
Kishimoto Japanese Kitchen + Sushi Bar
Combining traditional techniques with innovative dishes, Kishimoto Restaurant is a standout for sushi and Japanese cuisine lovers.
Best Latin American Restaurant Award Finalists
Chancho Tortilleria
Famous for its handmade tortillas and bold, authentic Mexican flavours, Chancho is a true taste of Latin America on The Drive.
La Mezcaleria
A haven for mezcal enthusiasts and fans of modern Mexican cuisine, La Mezcaleria offers a lively and delicious dining experience.
Best Plant-Based Restaurant Award Finalist
Viet Family The Vegan House
A gem for plant-based diners, Viet Family The Vegan House specializes in creative vegan Vietnamese dishes that impress vegetarians and omnivores alike.
Best Thai Restaurant Award Finalist
Thai Basil
Known for its authentic Thai flavours and fresh ingredients, Thai Basil Restaurant is a culinary treasure on The Drive.
Best Vietnamese Restaurant Award Finalist
Lunch Lady
This vibrant eatery offers inventive twists on classic Vietnamese street food and has captured the hearts of locals and visitors, earning it a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand award.
Readers’ Choice Award Finalists
Best Brunch: Livia
Renowned for its artisanal pastries and delightful brunch offerings, Livia is a neighbourhood favourite for brunch, lunch and dinner!
Best Coffee Shop: JJ Bean
A Commercial Drive institution, JJ Bean Coffee Shop serves exceptional coffee in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Best of Commercial Drive Award Finalists
Bar Corso
Purposefully nestled into the heart of Little Italy, you cannot help but fall in love with this contemporary Italian bar that offers innovative cocktails and small plates.
Havana
A Cuban-inspired favourite that pairs delicious food with a vibrant atmosphere, Havana is known for its locally sourced ingredients, craft beers, and an innovative cocktail program.
Livia
An all-day bakery and café with irresistible charm, Livia opens Thursday to Sunday evenings for wine and handmade pasta and is home to Vancouver’s best Negroni Bar.
Lunch Lady
Famous for its Vietnamese street food with bold flavours and fresh ingredients, Anthony Bourdain affectionately named Chef Nguyễn Thi Thanh the “Lunch Lady” during one of his visits.
Support The Drive’s Finalists – Vote Now!
These businesses showcase the incredible culinary talent and diversity that make The Drive a standout destination, and now it’s time for us to show our support! Head over to the Vancouver Magazine 2025 Restaurant Awards voting page to cast your vote and help our local favourites shine.
Let’s celebrate the passion, creativity, and dedication these establishments bring to our community. Whether it’s enjoying a delicious meal, grabbing a coffee, or voting online, every little bit helps highlight why The Drive is Vancouver’s coolest neighbourhood.
