Two-time MLS Cup winner with Earthquakes and current 1590 KLIV radio color analyst Joe Cannon has made a name for himself on and off the field in San Jose, but it’s in Vancouver where he ended his storied career in MLS. Cannon, a fan favorite in Vancouver, returns up north for Friday’s match at BC Place and has laid out the ultimate traveling guide for Quakes fans who have made the trek across the northern border.
Hello fans!
In the last years of my career, my wife & I had the pleasure of living in Vancouver, B.C. Since the world expo in the mid-80s, Vancouver has been a popular destination for so many. August is the perfect time of year & it allows the city to get outside & enjoy the good life.
Part of this life is the amazing food & culinary scene. There are so many wonderful places downtown & in the immediate areas. Be sure to take advantage of the strong U.S. dollar & the local & sustainable ingredients the city's restaurants are known for. In no way could we name all of the top restaurants, but here are a few of our favorites from our time in this incredible city.
There's also a list of areas & things to do to burn off all the great food.
Places to Eat
Breakfast
Twisted Fork - Great brunch menu. I'm a sweet person, so I get the banana stuffed French Toast that comes with too much whip cream. Add the French press coffee & the scones & it's a great start to your day.
Templeton - Down the street from Twisted Fork is a small diner named Templeton. No bells & whistles here, just straight to the point honest good food. The truckers breakfast is a hearty meal that won't break the budget.
**Both places are downtown on Granville Street.
Lunch
Meat & Bread - Head on over to Gastown & get into Meat & Bread. They offer a small menu, but the Porchetta Sand is amazing & you can see them slice the roasted pork right in front of you.
La Taqueria - If you're missing the Taco trucks back home then find La Taqueria. These guys have perfected the small bite taco & offer many delicious options. Carnitas are the family favorites but they have many different options.
Dinner
Flying Pig - Well if you have time (& the stomach) before the game, you have tons of options downtown. If you are in Yaletown, Gastown, or the Olympic Village, is an amazing gastro-pub with so many delicious items. From the braised short rib to the roasted Brussel sprouts to the Mac & cheese, you really can't go wrong. If you're really hungry, ask about the daily special for two or more. It's a delicious platter that satisfies the appetite every time.
Fable Restaurant - If you are adventurous & want to head over to the popular Kitsilano area, be sure to look into Fable Restaurant. This place is our favorite in town & they do an amazing dinner (& weekend brunch!!). Try the onion gnocchi with pulled pork or the pork & scallops. Everything is so thought out with wonderful display. From the original "canned tuna" to the creative "smores" dessert, if you have time, this is a great place to dine.
Cioppinos - If your celebrating a special birthday, anniversary or even a Quakes win & you feel like splurging, Cioppinos in Yaletown will blow you away with their homemade pasta & lobster options. Chef Pino himself is a huge soccer fan and his attention to detail is second to none. Hands down an incredible meal but one that will stretch the budget!
Places to Visit
Sea Wall/Stanley Park - Before the game, rent a bike or just walk around the city. Take in the beautiful views while getting some exercise.
Grouse Grind- If you need a hike with incredible views, this one will do it. Oh by the way, it's a mile long track that takes about an hour. Once you get to the top, enjoy the view & take the tram down!
Kitsilano - This is a beach town. There are a lot of Canadians who call this area home for the summer. Think San Diego but with a Canadian twist.
Deep Cove - A small quaint town on the side of the mountain. Canoes, hiking & kayaking make this a cool place to get out & explore.
Granville Island - This is a must-see. It has a kids water park & home to the freshest fish on the island. Head over to the market or check out the many shops this island houses.
Whistler - If you have time, take the sea to sky highway & check out B.C.’s most popular resort. Hiking, golf, massages & the BC wildlife are just a few of the many perks.
