Our Picks: Spring Meals to Fuel the Soul in Squamish

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in Squamish this spring, but adventure is not the only thing have to look forward to. After spending the day skiing down alpine slopes or snowshoeing through one of the parks, you’ll be craving a warm, hearty meal. What better way to get a little pick me up than by trying one of Squamish’s enticing restaurants or pubs? Although you can’t go wrong, we’ve put together a few of our favorite spring meals to fuel your soul in Squamish.

Salted Vine

You don’t have to go far to get good food. Salted Vine is conveniently located downtown. This upscale restaurant creates an intimate feel with soft lighting and modern décor. After a grueling day, try ordering the protein packed Wagyu Beef. Accompanied with hearty red cabbage, it’s seasoned with smoked sea salt and chimichurri for a little kick that will be sure to warm you up. Plan an early dinner or a late lunch to take advantage of happy hour between 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. so you can pair your meal with a happy hour martini, draft beer, or sparkling wine. They’re 20% off so you won’t feel guilty for splurging.

The Barred Owl

Some people like to unwind in a quite atmosphere, but others prefer a little entertainment. For a more casual feel head over to one of Squamish’s newest pubs, the Barred Owl. Flat-screen TVs broadcast the latest matches for sports enthusiasts, and the venue is also a favorite for music lovers. They often feature local bands, and every Tuesday a DJ gets guests in the mood to dance. To refuel on carbohydrates order their special Macaroni with Pulled Pork paired with a classic west coast pale ale, Stanley Park Windstorm.

Howe Sound Brew Pub

This local brewery is a Squamish favourite, partly for their unique ales, and partly for the amazing views of Stawamus Chief from the patio. Try one of the pub’s classic Firebrand Artisan Pizzas, which of course come with a hint of craft beer. They’re made with their craft beer infused house-made sourdough and baked in a wood-stone oven to create a round, warm flavor. You can order one of their 11 year round brews to go with it, or opt for a limited time spring brew, like the Log Driver Juniper Rye IPA.

Pepe & Gringo’s

Pepe & Gringo’s is a unique fusion, combining Mexican and Italian flavors to make a menu you couldn’t find anywhere else. Cozy and welcoming, this steak house immediately makes you feel at home. If you’re feeling hungry and want something hearty, the Peppercorn Crusted Rack of Lamb is sure to impress. Seared with herbs and a savory Yukon garlic mash, this dish hits the spot after a long day in the parks. Pair it with a red wine to bring out the flavours.

Oryzae Japanese Cuisine

Formally known as KOZO café, Oryzae Japanese Cuisine styles itself as a sushi bar that also specializes in drinks also known as Izakaya, the first of its kind in Squamish. Although sushi is certainly a classic, Oryzae offers much more. Their creative chefs have included some surprising additions to the menu. This spring, we recommend the Nabeyaki Udon, a thick, wheat-flour noodle served with beef, chicken, or vegetable and a boiled egg. Add two pieces of prawn tempura to round out the flavours and pair with one of their hot or cold sakes.

Crabapple Café

This casual café located just outside of Squamish offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Wood floors and tables add a subtly rustic feel while the white walls brighten up the room. The eclectic menu has dozens of healthy, organic meals to choose from, which make this a very inclusive eatery. They even offer vegan and gluten-free options and have Meatless Mondays. However, they also serve food made for meat lovers, including Prime Rib Dinners. Although the food tends to be healthy, if you want to indulge, they have local brews on tap, including Persephone with rotating flavours!

The Copper Coil Still and Grill

Who says you can’t get a little bit of Creole flavor in B.C.? The Copper Coil Still and Grill was inspired by New Orleans, which is apparent in the menu and décor. As you step into the grill, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another time and place. Wood paneled walls, exposed pipes, and decorative knickknacks like a hanging accordion bring a little of the American South to Squamish. The Cajun-inspired barbecue serves up a mean 8 oz. Rib-eye Steak. On Surf and Turf Saturday, the steak is a special and it comes with a snow crab. Steaks, burgers, cornbread and fries wouldn’t be complete without a beer. Try one of the beers on tap – Side Cut, Wunderbar Kolsch, Fuzzy IPA or Bourbon Blood Orange to name a few.

Mags 99

If you’re looking for an untraditional fast food joint with a bit of a Mexican kick, Mags 99 is the spot for you. Cartoonish wall art of Day of the Dead inspired skulls and bright colors make for a festive environment that’s sure to put anyone in a good mood. Mexican food isn’t their only specialty, however. Chicken is their meat of choice. In fact, the menu features a whole page of Chicken snack packs and chicken only items. After a day out on the town this spring, stop in for one of their Burritos – a chicken one, of course – and a Corona.

Zephyr Café

Zephyr Café describes itself as a progressive place focused on community development and healthy food. They’re certainly achieving their goals. The menu focuses on vegetarian, vegan, raw, and gluten-free dishes and local produce. They even feature a local artist every month, which not only helps the community, it also turns this café into a constantly changing gallery. Stop by for lunch this spring to try one of their Rice Bowls. You can choose between organic brown rice or organic quinoa topped with grilled zucchini and onions, shredded beet and carrot, tomato, and green onion. It also comes with a homemade sesame Zephyr or Peanut Satay sauce. You can also add chicken, chorizo sausage, or tofu for a boost of protein.

The Green M0ustache

If you are on the go to your next adventure or just want something particularly healthy, The Green Moustache features juices and raw, vegan meals. Their Healing Kitchari is a blend of rice, ‘Moon Dal’, and veggies cooked with traditional Kitchari spice mix. According to their site, it’s also a staple Ayurvedic healing food. The complete protein meal nourishes, cleanses, detoxifies and heals your digestive track. Before you go, order one of their freshly blended juices. It’s also a great way to get veggies into your diet. As the name implies, when you walk away you’ll be sporting a green mustache!

Spring is one of the best times to enjoy Squamish. The freezing winter cold starts to dissipate, but there’s still plenty of snow to enjoy winter sports. It truly is the best of both worlds. One of the best things about spring, though, might just be the delicious meals Squamish’s eateries make to add that special highlight to the end of your day. Our restaurants know just how to create the perfect atmosphere and flavours to fuel the soul and complete your adventures.