3 major food names that tried and failed in Vancouver

Hanna McLean/Dished

Vancouver is home to some great restaurants and food spots, including some with Michelin stars.

However, not every restaurant is able to stick around, no matter how big of a cult following it has.

Here are three major food names you might not know that tried to launch in Vancouver, but weren’t able to stick around.

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Taco Bell

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This one came as a surprise, even to us. There are currently no Taco Bells in Vancouver. But many moons ago, located inside the Scotiabank Theatre on the second floor, you used to be able to get Taco Bell. It’s currently a regular Cinexplex concession stand serving your favourite movie treats like popcorn and candy, but you used to be able to order things like bubble tea, KFC, Taco Bell, ice cream, and more!

But don’t worry, Taco Bell has plans to expand back into Vancouver as part of its Canada-wide expansion. You can also visit one of Taco Bell’s many locations in Metro Vancouver.

Momofuku

Momofuku Noodle Bar space March 10, 2021 (Daily Hive)

We were so close to getting a Momofuku in Vancouver. The location was chosen, signage went up, and then poof… no more Momofuku. The location was announced back in October 2019, and after many delays, the restaurant chain announced in 2022 that it would not be opening in Vancouver. It also came just days after it announced it wouldn’t renew the lease of its Toronto location.

Milk Bar

Hanna McLean/Daily Hive

This one we were sad to see go. The popular NYC Milk Bar only opened its first Canadian location in November 2022. However, it only lasted until March 17, 2023. It was located inside Nordstroms (yet another store closure) and was part of its other food services and restaurant locations, including Ebars.

The bakeshop was known best for its Compost Cookie, “naked” layer cakes, Cereal Milk Soft Serve, and Milk Bar Pies.