Cougar Bites: Restaurant revivals

Regardless of the skills one might carry in the kitchen, we all feel the need to order out from time to time. With the restaurant industry being amongst those hardest hit in the pandemic,  supporting local restaurants has never been more critical. Whether it be by take-out or delivery, ordering from local businesses ensures they can continue making amazing food we all know and love.

I am Thai Eatery

Only 3 miles away from campus, I am Thai Eatery offers a variety of delicious food. Although a bit on the pricier side, taking advantage of the lunch special is highly recommended. If you end up paying a visit, be sure to try the Thai iced tea, crispy rolls and tofu sticks. Other menu items include mouth-watering curry, orange chicken and bao. If you are looking to dine somewhere in person, I am Thai Eatery currently has limited outdoor seating available. The restaurant also offers take-out service and can be found on Grubhub for delivery options.

Hula Boy Charbroil

One of the most hustling and bustling restaurants in Vancouver, Hula Boy Charbroil is a popular local spot with unique Hawaiian cuisine. While also a more pricer option, this place is definitely worth a try. The menu includes a large number of tasty entrees such as coconut shrimp, teriyaki beef, Korean ribs and Hula Boy Burgers. Some of the most popular side dishes offered here include steamed rice, macaroni salad and kimchi. Hula Boy Charbroil puts together a vast collection of sauces to choose from, so you will never fall short of options. One of my personal favorites was their teriyaki sauce. If you are looking to experience this restaurant’s atmosphere, dine-in seating is available and face coverings are offered at the front counter. While only 10 miles from campus, Hula Boy Charbroil also provides take-out and delivery services on Doordash.

Sweet Touch Café

With an adorable atmosphere, Sweet Touch Café is connected to Svitoch, a European deli and bakery. Sweet Touch Café offers a large selection of desserts, such as cakes, macarons and crepes, as well as a smaller selection of savory treats. Drinks, like coffee, chai tea and kombucha are also on the menu. Personally, I recommend the chocolate tulip and caramel cannolis. While only being 9 miles away from campus, the café is reasonably priced and offers indoor dining. Some menu items are available on Doordash, Grubhub and Postmates.

Vinnie’s Pizza

Vinnie’s Pizza is a locally owned restaurant, offering New York style pizza in downtown Vancouver. Vinnie’s is about 9 miles away from campus and reasonably priced. While selling full-size pizzas, Vinnie’s serves cheese pizza by the slice for $4, with an additional 25 cents per topping. Slices are definitely on the larger side and one will most likely fill you up. As for full-size pizzas, sizes range from a small 10-inch pizza for $14, to a giant 18-inch pizza for $32. Vinnie’s also has a gluten-free crust and vegan crust options available. Although mostly relying on take-out services and delivery from Grubhub and Postmates, some outdoor seating is available. 

Dough Boys Pizza 

Another great pizza place only 3 miles away from campus is Dough Boys Pizza. They currently only have take-out and delivery services, but they offer a large selection of toppings and flavors as well as pizza by the slice. The Village Veggie Pizza is a delightful choice for vegetarians and the Memphis BBQ pizza is very popular. Having more forgiving prices, the average giant pizza is around 18 inches while a large pizza is 14 inches. Dough Boys also offers a gluten-free crust and a vegan crust to choose from. Like many of these restaurants, you can request delivery from Dough Boys Pizza through Doordash, Postmates and Uber Eats.

Trying out local restaurants is not only a tasty way to have fun, but a great way to be supportive of the community. Whether you are in the mood for pizza, Hawaiian, Thai food or something sweet, Vancouver’s local restaurants have got it all.