Forget the Olympics; the Greeks’ greatest contribution to Vancouver might just be the cuisine. So skip the sub-par souvlaki stands and store-bought hummus, and enjoy this Mediterranean food the way it’s meant to be eaten: fresh.
The Main
Don’t miss the roast lamb at the Prinianakis family’s Main Street eatery, which also doubles as a venue for live roots music. An unlikely pairing, but it works. Mains, $13 – $18. 4210 Main St., 604-709-8555.
Piato
No blue and white motif and fake ivy here. This stylish Kitsilano spot classes up traditional Greek food with dishes like sockeye salmon over spanakorizo and halibut cheeks over horta. There’s a great selection of Greek wines and ouzo to wash it down. Mains, $12 – $22. 1835 West 4th Ave., 604-568-2929.
Stepho’s Greek Taverna
The reasons for those daily lineups down Davie Street? Cheap, authentic Greek grub served up in huge portions. It’s a prime place for boys’ night; not ideal for a date. Mains, $10 – $12. 1124 Davie St., 604-683-2555.
Kerkis Taverna
This Parthenon-inspired restaurant feels like something you’d find on Samos, the Greek island the owners call home. Don’t bother reading the menu; just order the city’s most sensational souvlaki. Mains, $16 – $30. 3605 West 4th Ave., 604-731-2712.
Apollonia
This cozy spot just off Granville Island is ideal for an intimate dinner. Share an authentic Greek platter (souvlaki, moussaka, etc.), or go solo on the slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth lamb. Mains, $14 – $20. 1830 Fir St., 604-736-9559.
Image courtesy of Geoff604 on Flickr.
