We’ve all been there; you’re hailing a cab home at 3:00 am when hunger hits. While a couple of fast food staples are always there for late-night revellers (I’m looking at you, McDonalds), Vancouver is home to a plethora of full-service restaurants that are ready to serve you at nearly any hour of the day or night. Save this list in your phone and save yourself from ever returning home hungry again.
Visiting the Naam after midnight is practically a prerequisite for being (or becoming) a Vancouverite. Hearty vegetarian and vegan fare is served around the clock, but this is a joint you won’t want to go to in a hurry. Expect the occasional line-up or wait, but anyone will tell you it’s worth it for their delicious baked miso fries, dragon bowls and burgers. In the mood for something sweet? There are cakes and pies available too.
This spot manages to serve dosas (if you’ve never had one, think savoury crepes) that are just as delicious at noon as they are at 3:00 am. Monday nights are infamous for the $5.99 special, and the Chicken 65 is the go-to item on the menu. Show up with a big appetite, and enjoy.
Lucy’s is the 24-hour diner Main Street needs and deserves. After downing pints at any of the numerous neighbourhood bars or leaving the Biltmore Cabaret at 2:00 am on the weekend, visit without hesitation. The name says it all; order up traditional American/Canadian-style diner food and add a (boozy) milkshake to top off the whole experience.
It’s easy to stay awake inside the glowing interior at Goldtrain Express; mirrors, bright neon lighting and shiny surfaces abound. While the aggressive decor is memorable to say the least, this 24-hour spot provides large portions of Vietnamese fare that are perfect for soaking up an night’s worth of booze. Reminder: bring cash!
What doesn’t Duffin’s do? Pupusas, fried chicken, burgers and fries, bánh mì, eggs-and-sausage breakfasts, bubble tea, 24 flavours of soft-serve ice cream, and yes, doughnuts. Duffin’s is open 24-hours a day all week long and the affordable prices make it a budget-conscious eater’s dream. If you decide to mix and match all of the aforementioned dishes, I recommend bringing a bottle of Pepto along.
Those who enjoy a night out downtown will already be all too familiar with Davie Street Denny’s location, but for the uninitiated, this is easily one of the most entertaining spots in the city at 4:00 am on a Tuesday. The staff are patient, friendly and used to a raucous late-night crowd, so it’s a perfect spot to meet up with friends after the bar and grab a classic breakfast to soak up the booze.
Calhoun’s is a familiar name for UBC students and alumni. Most popular with last-minute crammers during exam season, this 24-hour bakery in Kitsilano is rarely without at least a dozen Macbook screens glowing in the dark. More of a coffee-and-a-doughnut spot than a late night restaurant, the grub is good and the vibe is very mellow. Enjoy!