Nemesis Coffee founder Jess Reno dishes on his top 6 Vancouver restaurants

When talking about cafes in Vancouver, few are as iconic as Nemesis: the coffee brand founded by Jess Reno.

What started as a single-location coffee destination in Gastown has become a full-fledged Nemesis takeover in Metro Vancouver, spanning from Surrey to Coquitlam. The team has even launched a standalone spot for its bakery offshoot, Dope Bakehouse.

This is all to say, after all the years of success and spending time in and around Vancouver, Reno has grown quite familiar with the food scene.

So naturally, the last time we spoke with him, we needed to know: what were some of his top picks for eateries in the city? And trust us, he had some great answers.

@dishedvancouverPick 6 with Jess Reno from Nemesis 🍽️ Do you agree with Jess’ picks? Let us know ⬇️ #vaneats #restaurantpicks #foodie #pick6♬ original sound – Dished Vancouver

Belli Pizza

When we chatted with Reno, Belli Pizza hadn’t even opened its doors, yet he was still raving about the pizza, calling it, in his opinion, the best in the city.

Belli is a new school pizzeria with a heavy hit of nostalgia, inspired by co-owners Scott Thornhill and Conor Murphy’s love for old-school diners in New York, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax.

Here you’ll find a selection of New York-style rounds and Detroit-style square pizzas, with classic offerings like cheese and pepperoni pizza alongside more creative offerings like a Korean cheesy corn pizza with smokey braised short rib and gochujang glaze, along with other more out-of-the-box flavours.

Address: 1733 Commercial Dr., Vancouver

Oidé Coffee

Vancouver’s Oidé Coffee has become a much-loved spot for years due to its dedication to quality coffee and service.

Oidé, which means “come here” in Japanese, opened at 550 Clarke Drive back in May 2022 as a temporary space run by Coffee Central Roasting. Then, in 2023, the cafe moved to its current home at 1548 West 2nd Ave., which is the iconic Waterfall Building designed by Arthur Erickson (and also steps away from the recently-opened dual cafe and bar Ellipsis).

The cafe is best known for serving coffee with just two options: with or without milk. This covers everything from flat whites to Americanos, keeping things simple. As a result, this keeps the focus on quality.

Recently, the team shared that they were opening a new coffee lab and roastery sometime in 2026.

Address: 1548 W 2nd Ave., Vancouver

Sumibiyaki Arashi

In addition to its recommendation by Reno, Sumibiyaki Arashi has received numerous accolades since it officially opened its doors, including being a finalist on Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants and receiving a Michelin Star at this year’s Award ceremony.

Led by chef Peter Ho, this intimate 14-seat restaurant specializes in flame-grilled meats, with Ho displaying his mastery over fire while cooking on a charcoal grill in front of guests.

Address: 363 E. Broadway, Vancouver

Wild Blue

This restaurant comes to us from a group of industry veterans: Neil Henderson (Araxi), Chef Alex Chen (Boulevard Restaurant, winner of Iron Chef, Bocuse d’Or), and Jack Evrensel (founder and former operator of the award-winning Toptable Group).

“Alex Chen is the best; he is an amazing human being,” said Reno when talking about this spot.

Here you’ll find a seafood-forward menu focused on elevated Pacific Northwest cuisine, sustainable seafood, and local ingredients.

Since it opened in 2022, Wild Blue has won numerous accolades, including being listed as second in Canada’s Best New Restaurant in Air Canada Magazine and securing the 66th spot on Canada’s 100 Best List for 2023, then climbing to number 33 in 2025. So it’s safe to say you’re in for a good meal if you visit here.

Address: 4005 Whistler Way, Whistler

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh has always been a hot pick when it comes to dining in the city, if not specifically for its signature wings. Sweet, savoury, and all sorts of delicious, many have tried to replicate these wings to no avail.

Reno isn’t the only one who’s a fan of these wings, though, as many other celebrities, including Jimmy O. Yang, Fast and Furious star Sung Kang, and bbno$, have enjoyed meals at the establishment.

Even Duffin’s Donuts co-owner Molika Chhuon gave these a shoutout when we spoke to her.

Address: 244 E. Georgia St., Vancouver

Nemesis

“I’m sorry, shameless plug,” said Reno with a laugh. But we can’t blame him; Nemesis really is that good.

Nemesis isn’t just known for its standout drinks (which it has many) or its viral Mortadella sandwich, but for its perfectly crafted spaces and hip-hop records on repeat. You can even grab a cocktail at its Surrey Pavilion location.

Address: Multiple locations across Metro Vancouver