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Explore the Flavors of the Top Street Food Spots in Vancouver

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You’re starving, on the go, and the only option is that greasy hot dog from a street vendor. You take a bite, hoping for the best—but the bun is stale, and the hot dog tastes like it’s been sitting out in the sun for a week.

That’s enough to make anyone forgo street food altogether. 

Luckily, I’ve eaten my way around town while on the go and discovered all the best spots. 

So, here are all my favorite street food cheap eats in Vancouver that won’t leave you sick after the first bite. 

1. Nukkad Indian Street Eats 

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Address: 7899 Templeton Station Rd

Hours: Friday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM 

Phone: +1 778-957-1295

Price: $

Nukkad Indian Street Eats is a must-try for anyone who loves Indian food. Their bright yellow food truck has become one of my top last-minute dinner stops.

Their Great Grilled Sandwich is a standout option. Filled with paneer, veggies, and cheese, it’s grilled to a satisfying crisp and served with a side of fries.

For something lighter, the Veggie Gravy Momos are worth trying. These fried veggie dumplings are packed with spices and seasonings that give them a rich taste—they’re hard to resist!

Pro Tip: If you’re a parent with a child, they provide free milk—just remember to bring your own bottle.

2. Fiorino 

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Website

Address: 212 E Georgia St

Hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday- 11:30 AM to 10 PM 
  • Friday & Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM 
  • Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM 

Phone: +1 604-568-0905

Price: $$

Fiorino brings the authentic flavors of Florence, Italy, to your doorstep. Their Schiacciata bread sandwiches are worth every bite, even if I’ve gained a few pounds since discovering them.

My favorites include the Preferita. It has an 18-month prosciutto di parma, provolone cheese, and porcini mushroom crema, which explains why I’d always go for it.

The Maialona is another must-try. It has a spicy honey mustard-glazed pork belly, walnut pesto, and Parmigiano Reggiano—a combination of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors.

Beyond sandwiches, Fiorino has pasta and salads. Their paccheri al ragù di cinghiale features wild boar ragu and Italian stracciatella cheese, combining a tender meat and a creamy texture.

Pro Tip: If you’re with a group of 8 or more, check out their Cena Set Menu after 5 PM. It’s a great way to sample a variety of their delicious dishes. 

3. Mr. Shawarma 

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Website

Address: 655 Burrard Street At the corner of Burrard and, Melville St

Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM

Phone: +1 (604) 569-1644

Price: $

Mr. Shawarma’s food truck serves delicious, authentic Middle Eastern street food. Their food is fresh, flavorful, and affordable—I’ve been a fan since they opened. 

My go-to order is their famous grilled beef steak pita wrap. It’s packed with juicy, flavorful beef, tahini sesame sauce, and fresh toppings. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures makes it a satisfying choice every time.

Another favorite of mine is their chicken cheesesteak grilled sandwich. The juicy, herb-seasoned chicken is paired with melted cheese and peppers, all enhanced by a delicious garlic sauce.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss their Shawarma “Spicy” Box—ideal for those who love bold flavors and a spicy kick. 

4. Nonna’s Cucina 

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Website

Address: 2166 E Hastings St

Hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday, Sunday  – 11 AM to 9 PM 
  • Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM 

Phone: +1 604-423-9200

Price: $$

Nonna’s Cucina offers comforting Italian street foods that capture the essence of Italy. 

The veal sandwich is a standout. It has tender meat, tangy cheese, and a simple yet right blend of toppings.

But the arancini is the true highlight—creamy, cheesy rice balls filled with savory ground meat and peas. They’re so good, it’s hard to stop at just one.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to feed a crowd, Nonna’s offers catering as well. You can book them to treat your guests to amazing Italian food without all the hassle.

5. Potluck Hawker Eatery

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Website

Address: 3424 Cambie St

Hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM 
  • Friday & Saturday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM 

Phone: +1 604-423-9344

Price: $$

Potluck Hawker Eatery seamlessly blends the flavors of Malaysian, Thai, Filipino, and other Southeast Asian cuisines.

If you enjoy a good crunch, their Salted Egg Yolk Chicken Sando is a winner. The fried chicken is crispy, the salted egg yolk butter adds a balanced flavor, and the pickles provide a tangy contrast.

For a classic Southeast Asian street food experience, their Char Kway Teow is a great choice. The wok-fried noodles are well-cooked with a tasty mix of fish cake, prawn, and Chinese sausage. 

And for a Filipino-inspired delight, their crispy pata is worth trying. The meat is tender and pairs well with the soy sawsawan and Mang Tomas dipping sauces.

Pro Tip: Finish off your meal with a Milo Dinosaur. This Malaysian malted chocolate beverage is sweet and complements well with savory dishes. 

6. Ay! Mamacita

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Website

Address: 302 Industrial Ave

Phone: +1 778-882-7726

Price: $

Ay! Mamacita is a food truck that brings the flavors of Mexico right to the streets of Vancouver. It’s a great spot for a quick and tasty bite, offering authentic dishes that satisfy the cravings. 

Their beef barbacoa and chicken pastor tacos are always my go-to. The barbacoa is succulent, while the chicken pastor has a balanced smoky, tangy seasoning. Both come on fresh tortillas with all the classic toppings—simple and satisfying.

Their aguas frescas, especially the horchata, are also a treat. They’re sweet and the right complement to any meal.

Pro Tip: If you’re in the mood for something different, their chorizo quesadilla is worth trying. They’re filled with spicy chorizo, melted cheese, and all the classic toppings—great for a satisfying bite.

7. Hawkers Delight Deli

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Address: 4127 Main St

Hours: Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 8 PM 

Phone: +1 604-709-8188

Price: $

Hawker’s Delight Deli serves authentic and affordable Singaporean and Malaysian cuisine. It’s the perfect place to experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia without spending too much.

One of my go-to dishes is their Hainanese chicken rice. The chicken is soft and juicy, paired with the cooked rice infused with a hit of ginger—what a treat. 

If seafood is more your style, try their laksa. This spicy coconut milk curry is bold and fragrant, topped with tofu puffs, shredded chicken, prawns, and more.

Pro Tip: For a quick snack, grab a roti prata. It’s an Indian-style flatbread served with a delicious curry-dipping sauce. 

8. Gringo Gastown

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Website

Address: 27 Blood Alley Square

Hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 12 PM to 1 AM 
  • Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM 

Phone: +1 604-673-0513

Price: $$

Gringo Gastown is a lively, budget-friendly taco bar that feels like a bustling Mexican street food stall. The vibe is energetic, and the food never disappoints.

I’m a big fan of their tacos—they’re loaded with delicious fillings. My favorite is the Mazatlán-style smoked pork butt, which is soft and savory. 

Another one is their CBC. It’s a chipotle beer chicken with fried onion and jalapeno lime ranch. The warm corn tortillas are also so good you’ll definitely want more.

For drinks, their full bar offers plenty of options like margaritas and draft beers. I always go for their Thai Buckets—a fun mix of good booze, Red Bull, and soda—because it’s refreshing and ideal for keeping the night going.

Pro Tip: Come on Twoonie Tuesdays to get an 8-ounce draft beer for $2 and a Taco Trio Mix ‘n’ Match for $10—such a great deal. 

9. Chung Chun Rice Hot Dog

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Website

Address: 1795 Robson St

Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM

Phone: +1 604-423-5529

Price: $

Chung Chun Rice Hot Dog has become a Vancouver favorite, and it’s easy to see why.

They have a unique and delicious Korean twist on the classic hot dog. Instead of a cornmeal batter, they use a rice flour batter fermented for two hours. This process gives the hot dog a soft, chewy texture with a crisp exterior.

The best part about it is the customization. You can add toppings like potato, sweet potato, or ramen to make your hot dog just the way you like it.

As for sauces, they offer a variety. It includes honey butter, cinnamon sugar, and even wasabi for those who like a bold kick.

Pro Tip: For vegetarians—no worries. You can go for the mozzarella-stuffed one for a cheesy indulgence or the veggie-filled option for something lighter but just as satisfying.

10. Mapo Pancake House

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Website 

Address: 1130 Mainland St

Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 12 AM 
  • Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM 
  • Sunday – 12 PM to 11 PM 

Phone: +1 604-646-8585

Price: $$

Mapo Pancake House is a small and modest spot, but the food truly stands out. They specialize in pajeon, or Korean pancakes, which are among the best I’ve had.

Their menu offers a range of options. They have a classic prawn, green onion pajeon, and unique choices like potato and cheese or bulgogi cheese. The potato and cheese pajeon is crispy, while the bulgogi is marinated and more flavorful.

In addition to pancakes, they serve small jeon (Korean fritters), rice bowls, and tteokbokki—chewy and spicy dishes worth trying.

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling especially hungry, try their jeon tray—a sampler platter featuring all their small pancake flavors. Be sure to pair it with a glass of makgeolli (rice wine) for the perfect accompaniment.