Old Vancouver restaurants that have stood the test of time

Apr 19 2018, 1:06 am

It can sometimes seem like restaurants open and close in the same space on a yearly basis, so it’s nice to hear that there are some Vancouver spots that have lasted for decades.

Some of these spots have been around for half a century or more, and we hope they continue to operate and serve up their special cuisines.

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Here are 12 old Vancouver restaurants that have stood the test of time.

The Naam

For heaps of quality vegetarian food that’s actually filling, The Naam is a solid place to head. This Kitsilano eatery has been in operation since 1968.

Address: 2724 W 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Phone: 604-738-7151

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Aki Restaurant

This Japanese spot has been serving up authentic cuisine in Vancouver since 1963.

Address: 1368 W Pender Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-682-4032

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Northern Café & Grill

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You’ll find this gem at Northern Building Supply Ltd, where the kitchen will be whipping up mom and pop diner classics as they’ve been doing since 1955.

Address: 1640 East Kent Avenue, Vancouver

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Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House


For more than 30 years Joe Fortes has been serving up some seriously drool-worthy surf and turf. The restaurant is an institution in the dining scene in Vancouver, and their rooftop patio is one of the best in the city.

Address: 777 Thurlow Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-669-1940

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Simpatico Restaurant

Simpatico opened on January 1, 1969, on West 4th Street in Kitsilano, close to 50 years later it’s still cooking up delicious Greek eats.

Address: 2222 W 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Phone: 604-733-6824

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Argo Cafe

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Downtown food at an East Van price, this diner has been around since 1954.

Address: 1836 Ontario Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-876-3620

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India Gate


For 40 years this spot has been a stable eatery on Robson Street. Considering how many vacancies and the high turnover rate in the area, this is an incredible feat and just goes to show how much people love their Nothern Indian cuisine.

Address: 616 Robson Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-684-4617

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Helen’s Grill

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This Main Street gem has been around since for over 60 years. Head here for an authentic 60’s diner experience, complete with old-fashioned burgers and milkshakes.

Address: 4102 Main Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-874-4413

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Ovaltine Cafe

The Ovaltine Cafe has been open for business since 1942, making it one of Vancouver’s oldest restaurant. You can still head here for classic and contemporary diner food, priced right.

Address: 251 E Hastings Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-685-7021

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Kobe Japanese Steakhouse

2018 marks 50 years of operation for this Alberni Street restaurant. Known as a special occasion spot for all things hibachi and surf ‘n’ turf, this Japanese eatery will surely be around for years to come.

Address: 1042 Alberni Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-684-2451

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Martini’s

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This neighbourhood eatery, known for its homemade whole wheat pizza, first opened in 1970.

Address: 151 W Broadway, Vancouver
Phone: 604-873-0021

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Afghan Horsemen Restaurant

This family-managed restaurant has been serving gourmet Afghan cuisine made from the freshest ingredients since 1974.

Address: 1833 Anderson Street, Vancouver
Phone: 604-873-5923

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