Your Women-Led Patio Guide For The Lower Mainland
The vibrant and diverse Lower Mainland of British Columbia is home to a thriving business scene, with many establishments that offer delightful experiences for locals and visitors alike. This article highlights women-led businesses in the Lower Mainland that have created inviting patios to enjoy the region's natural beauty while indulging in delectable food, refreshing beverages, and charming ambiance. These entrepreneurs have not only demonstrated their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit but have also contributed to the cultural fabric of their communities. Join us as we explore these excellent establishments and celebrate the success of these inspiring women.
✬Burdock & Co (Vancouver): Burdock & Co is a culinary gem that has garnered a loyal following with its innovative farm-to-table fare and commitment to sustainability. Located in the eclectic Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, this award-winning restaurant owned by renowned chef Andrea Carlson seamlessly blends artfully crafted dishes and a gorgeous patio set amidst a lush urban garden with a relaxed atmosphere.
Gabi & Jules Handmade Pies and Baked Goodness (Port Moody & Burnaby Heights): Owned and operated by Lisa and Patrick Beecroft, this beloved local establishment is not just a bakery but an experience. Well-known for enticing customers with its delectable pies and baked treats, the addition of their charming patio creates a space where visitors can indulge in their culinary delights while immersing themselves in the welcoming atmosphere of Port Moody.
✬Anh and Chi (Vancouver): Co-founder Amélie Nguyễn, together with Chef, Owner, and brother Vincent Nguyen carries on their family's legacy of authentic, simple Vietnamese staples. The patio at Anh and Chi is the perfect spot to experience the restaurant's signature dishes, such as pho, banh mi, or their renowned shaking beef, while enjoying the company of friends and loved ones. The combination of natural beauty, attentive service, and the alluring aroma of Vietnamese dishes creates a unique ambiance that transports diners to the vibrant streets of Vietnam.
Banter Room (Vancouver): Banter Room, owned and co-partnered by Jasmine Mooney, is where culinary excellence and lively banter come together to create a bustling and chic dining destination in the heart of Yaletown. Drinks and conversation are the core of the atmosphere,with communal food as a highlight. The family-style dining options, weekend brunch, and covered patio keep people coming back and connecting.
Mahony's Tavern (Vancouver): With two locations, located in False Creek & Convention Centre, Mahony’s Tavern embodies the spirit of Irish hospitality and offers unforgettable views. Tracy Marchischuk heads up the False Creek location as General Manager at Stamps Landing. With its rich history, lively ambiance, and delectable Irish-inspired cuisine, Mahony's Tavern is the perfect destination for those seeking a memorable dining experience steeped in tradition and flavour right on the water.
✬¿CóMO? Tapería (Vancouver): ¿CóMO? Tapería is a culinary haven that offers an immersive experience with its enticing combination of indoor dining, Mercado, and a delightful patio. Letícia Castro, a respected industry veteran, joined ¿CóMO? Tapería, as its general manager, earlier this year. Enjoy the authentic flavours of Spain and explore the Mercado, filled with carefully selected artisanal products that bring the essence of Spanish cuisine to your home.
Orto Artisan Pasta (North Vancouver): Owned by Brigitte Raye, Orto is a haven for pasta enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable dining experience and freshly made pasta fills the air. As you immerse yourself in the exquisite flavours of Italian cuisine, take the chance to enjoy serene ambiance and picturesque views from their charming back garden patio. In the community spirit, Orto shares its space with a new local baker, Bad Dog Bread, and will soon feature some organic bread from Bad Dog Bread on its menu.
Callister Brewing (Vancouver): Co-founded by Soda Crafter Diana McKenzie, Callister Brewing is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts, known for its exceptional craft beers and sodas (think delish cocktail combos!) in the brewing neighbourhood of Yeast Van. When the sun is shining, take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy their inviting patio and picnic tables with friends.
Windfall Cider & Co. (North Vancouver): Founded by Nathaly Nairn and husband, Jeff Nairn, Windfall Cider & Co. is renowned for its exquisite ciders and friendly service. This is a haven for cider enthusiasts seeking a unique and flavorful experience. While there, take advantage of their covered patio, offering an intimate modern industrial setting where you can sip their handcrafted ciders and cider slushies while enjoying light snacks.
✬The Acorn (Vancouver): The Acorn a stylish and sophisticated eatery from Founder & GM Shira Blustein that sets the stage for an extraordinary vegetarian and vegan dining experience. Located on Main St., The Acorn is renowned for its ambitious vegetarian and vegan cuisine and boasts a vibrant bar and cozy curbside patio. We recommend checking out the patio for brunch, but evenings offer limited snacks with full beverage menu on the patio as well. If you’re looking to explore new culinary horizons, The Acorn promises to delight your senses and redefine the boundaries of plant-based cuisine in an elegant setting.
✬ = Michelin One Star, Bib Gourmands, and Recommended
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About the Author:
Colleen Wong has worked in Tourism and Hospitality for over a decade and started as the executive assistant of casino operations for River Rock Casino Resort, where she transitioned into Marketing. She currently works as a Marketing Services Manager at Gordon Food Service.