Downtown Vancouver offers a wide variety of sights and sounds to absorb. And when your stomach starts to rumble, it also has a selection of sandwich shops that can’t be beat. Here are some great spots to pick up a quick and tasty lunch next time you're in the core.
This restaurant attracts a steady stream of regulars thanks to a winning combination of out-of-this-world cheesesteaks and exceptional service. The sandwiches are incredibly flavourful, the ingredients are perfectly balanced, and you can get sides like freshly cut fries and decadent salted caramel frozen custard ice cream. What’s more, the downtown haunt is open late on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can drop in for some hearty grub on your way home after a night out.
This chic café serves everything from expertly prepared sandwiches to pastries to delicious macaroons in a wide spread of colours and flavours. The selection of sandwiches includes vegetarian options such as roasted eggplant with chickpea and Gouda as well as plenty of sandwiches for carnivores: the grilled chicken bahn mi, BLT and house roast beef are a few of our faves. Bel Café baristas roast nationally renowned 49th Parallel coffee beans, so be sure to get your sandwich with a gourmet cup of Joe.
The chefs at this Vancouver hotspot get their inspiration from Cuban and Mediterranean ingredients. Ordering the sandwich of your dreams is easy at Hubbub. You simply top one of their crispy baguettes with your choice of protein – options include spicy turkey sausage or sweet and tender pulled pork – and customize it with your favourite sauces and toppings. The service is friendly and efficient, so you’ll get your sandwich quickly and made to perfection, no matter how packed this popular restaurant gets.
This downtown destination is known for its tasty locally sourced ingredients and relaxed vibe. You’ll love the comfort food sammies, like the meatloaf with Pemberton beef and tomato sauce or the Reuben with Black Angus smoked beef. When you’re feeling chilly, pair your 'wich with the soup of the day, available in both vegan and meat options. There’s also a drink bar where you can get fresh smoothies, iced teas and coffee-based beverages that will pair perfectly with your lunch.
This popular Vietnamese restaurant offers delicious sandwiches at great prices, and with friendly and exceptionally quick service. It’s the perfect spot for a power lunch or grab a sandwich on the go before you do a little sight-seeing. The Banh Mi subs are made with fresh, crispy home-style bread, flavourful cilantro and pickled veggies that will delight your taste buds. You can top your sandwich with decadent sriracha mayo and pair it with their hearty beef soup.
Who doesn't love a food truck? Kaboom Box serves sandwiches packed with healthy, fresh and sustainable ingredients, many of which are locally sourced. You’ll find lots of creative options on the menu, as well as staples like the Oyster Po’Boy made with sustainably harvested oysters and house-made tartar sauce and the hot-smoked salmon sandwich with spicy mayo and maple mustard slaw. The popular mobile eatery also offers tasty sides like poutine with real Quebec cheese curds or a side salad made with organic greens.
Looking for a fast and affordable lunch downtown? This family-run sandwich shop is famous for its fresh homemade sandwiches and wallet-friendly soup and sandwich specials. Be sure to try out the roast turkey sandwich which is a favourite among regulars. It comes with all the classic Thanksgiving fixings (including cranberry sauce) and the turkey is fresh and unprocessed. You can also grab one of the large meat-packed salads if you’re looking for a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on the protein.