Lunch Lady & Magari by Oca Celebrate Bib Gourmand Wins
Two Commercial Drive Restaurants Earn Michelin Bib Gourmand Honours Again
Commercial Drive has long been known as one of Vancouver’s most vibrant dining destinations, where authentic flavours and community spirit meet. This year, two beloved neighbourhood spots have once again been recognized by the Michelin Guide with the prestigious Bib Gourmand designation, which celebrates restaurants offering exceptional quality at great value.
Lunch Lady – Vietnamese Regional Cuisine
Chef Nguyen Thi Thanh’s legacy continues to shine at Lunch Lady, a restaurant that has captured the hearts (and appetites) of locals and visitors alike. The menu is a journey of bold Vietnamese flavours—one that often leads to “decision paralysis” as diners are torn between mouthwatering options.
Start with fried black tiger prawns with fish sauce or the herb-packed beef carpaccio, layered with pickled onions and lime vinaigrette. Noodle lovers are spoiled for choice, from the ever-popular garlic fried noodles to the indulgent wagyu beef noodle soup.
It’s no wonder Michelin not only awarded Lunch Lady a Bib Gourmand but also featured it among the Most Affordable Restaurants in Vancouver—a true testament to its ability to deliver exceptional food without breaking the bank.
Magari by Oca – Contemporary Italian
For those who crave authentic Italian, Magari by Oca offers more than just a meal—it’s an experience rooted in craftsmanship and tradition. This welcoming pastificio combines bistro charm—think black-and-white tiled floors and chalkboard specials—with the artistry of fresh pasta making.
Diners can watch the kitchen team hand-roll pasta at the open station, then taste the results in dishes that embody simplicity and perfection. Standouts include the single spiraled raviolo, filled with ricotta, mascarpone, and green garlic, bathed in a sage butter sauce. For the adventurous, the Facciamo Noi tasting menu lets guests explore a rotating selection of off-menu pasta creations.
Michelin not only honoured Magari with a Bib Gourmand but also recognized it as one of the Best Italian Restaurants in Vancouver, highlighting its dedication to authentic, soulful cooking.
A Win for The Drive | The repeated success of Lunch Lady and Magari by Oca underscores what East Vancouver diners already know—Commercial Drive is home to some of the city’s most exciting and accessible culinary experiences.
Whether you’re craving fragrant Vietnamese comfort food or handmade Italian pasta, these two Michelin-recognized gems prove once again that The Drive is a destination worth celebrating.
