Discover the Allure of This Enchanting Fishing Village Near Vancouver

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While Vancouver often steals the spotlight, those in the know are drawn to Steveston, a charming fishing village just down the coast. This picturesque harbor becomes a hub for seafood lovers from mid-May to June, coinciding with the peak harvest of spot prawns. Nestled where the Fraser River meets the Salish Sea in Richmond, British Columbia, Steveston is not only a seafood haven but is also surrounded by lush farmland producing everything from blueberries to Chinese cabbage. With direct access to fresh seafood and local produce, visitors can enjoy the best of the region right off the dock. The vibrant culinary landscape here is enhanced by scenic views of bobbing boats and a tidy main street that notably featured in the ABC series Once Upon a Time. The following guide outlines how to spend a delightful day in Steveston, from coastal seafood to local farms.

Morning: Exploring Docks and Markets

Begin your day with a leisurely walk along Fisherman’s Wharf, where the early morning bustle features boats offloading their fresh catches. Engage with local fishermen and seize the opportunity to buy seafood directly from the public sales float, including salmon, halibut, and during peak season, spot prawns. If you’re not an early riser, no worries; the action continues well into the afternoon.

After soaking in the maritime atmosphere, treat yourself to breakfast or brunch at Breakfast Table, which originated in Vancouver in 2016 and opened in Steveston in 2023. The menu offers a unique twist on morning staples, featuring dishes like beef bulgogi hash and tom yum pulled-pork rice bowl. For a more casual bite, stop by Lee’s Donuts, a family-owned institution since 1979, where you can enjoy a sweet treat made famous by its appearance on Netflix’s Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

If you visit on a summer Sunday, be sure to check out the Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market (operating from May to mid-September). Here, you can explore locally crafted goods, sample a variety of snacks, and converse with engaging vendors, including those from The Sharing Farm, which supports community members experiencing food insecurity by growing produce locally.

A stop at Athiana Acres, a regenerative organic farm, is also worthwhile. Their summer and fall weekend pop-up markets feature fresh produce, herbs, and local artisanal goods, including cold-pressed juices and handmade pottery. Keep an eye on their website for special seasonal events, which can include gourmet dinners with renowned chefs.

Midday: Fish-and-Chips and Humpback Whales

For lunch, indulge in local brews at Britannia Brewing Steveston, recognized for its craft beers like Adrift Hop Blonde Ale. Pair your drink with menu items such as a poached-pear salad or buttermilk fried chicken. If you’re after a classic, grab fish-and-chips from the beloved Pajo’s on the waterfront or take a short stroll inland to Dave’s Fish & Chips, a staple since 1978.

Set aside your afternoon for an exhilarating whale watching trip with Seabreeze Adventures, offering eco-friendly tours that let you spot orcas and humpback whales offshore, alongside harbor seals and Steller’s sea lions in the nearby waters. Alternatively, if rough seas aren’t your style, explore Steveston’s fascinating history as “Salmonopolis” by visiting the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site.

For those visiting from mid-May to mid-June, take advantage of the Steveston Spot Prawn & Seafood Celebration, featuring dockside cooking demonstrations and special offerings at local restaurants. And if you’re in town on Canada Day (July 1), don’t miss the traditional wood-fired salmon bake at the Steveston Salmon Festival.

Evening: A Rising Culinary Star

As day turns to night, consider a visit to Steveston Seafood House, a local favorite since 1978 known for its buck-a-shuck oysters and fresh seafood dishes, including a standout sablefish marinated in miso and sake. The restaurant continues to be a cornerstone of the culinary scene here.

However, the spotlight has increasingly shifted to chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng’s Baan Lao, which earned the title of Canada’s Best Restaurant at the World Culinary Awards in 2024. Phanthoupheng, who trained in royal Thai cuisine in Bangkok, presents exquisite tasting menus that highlight the best of Canadian seafood and local ingredients. Her unique dishes, such as the Lobster Pad Thai, showcase her commitment to quality and creativity, making her dining establishment a must-visit.

Source
www.foodandwine.com