Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Vancouver’s grande dame has been holding court from the heart of downtown since 1939. Covering the bulk of a city block, this august address offers old school elegance and luxury in its 556 rooms, as well as the opulent Griffins Restaurant, the sleek 900 West Lounge, the decadent Absolute Spa and Gucci and Louis Vuitton stores. Strut about its generous 400-square-foot rooms and enjoy views out over the city. While old world elegance may reign, the hotel is no slouch when it comes to high tech amenities – all rooms come equipped with high-speed internet and HD flatscreen TVs. Downtown; Fairmont Hotel, 900 West Georgia St.; 604-684-3131; www.fairmont.com
luxury | hotel | expensive | editor pick
Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel Top-of-the-line amenities keep guests comfortable at the über-luxurious, 504-room Pan Pacific, but the spectacular waterfront views are the hotel’s real selling point. Downtown; Suite 300-999 Canada Place; 604-662-8111; www.panpacific.com
luxury | hotel | views | expensive | waterfront | great location
Vij's Inventive East Indian fusion stars at this sultry West Side spot. Vij’s wine and fenugreek curry glazed lamb popsicles are world-renowned and are the only constant on a regularly changing menu. They don’t take reservations, but it’s no hardship to linger over complimentary chai in the inviting lounge till a table is ready. South Granville; 1480 W. 11th Ave.; 604-736-6664; www.vijs.ca
restaurant | expensive
West Thrillingly unpredictable combinations like roasted quail pie served under toasted almond cream and white grape vinaigrette star on West’s innovative menu. Hands-down Vancouver’s top restaurant, it is an absolute must for food aficionados, many of whom make trips to the city specifically to savor the chic South Granville room’s contemporary West Coast fare. South Granville; 2881 Granville St.; 604-738-8938; www.westrestaurant.com
restaurant | expensive | notable wine list | notable chef | editor pick
