Known as Anthony Bourdain’s favorite 'Lunch Lady,' Chef Nguyen Thi Thanh (respectfully called Co Thanh) has become an icon in Vietnam, Vancouver, and around the world.
Originally starting with a nameless food stall in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), she later brought her celebrated dishes to Canada. Run in partnership with Chef Benedict Lim and Michael Tran, Lunch Lady was selected by our Inspectors as a Bib Gourmand – a favorite for a good value meal.
Below, the Lunch Lady team shares with us their collective favorites in Vancouver.
What are some of your favorite restaurants?
Linh Café
This is our go-to spot when we're craving French or Vietnamese food. Chef Tai's sauces are nothing short of incredible. The steak frites & chicken liver here are our personal favorites. Whether you're in the mood for a comforting bowl of pho or a perfectly cooked steak, Linh Café never disappoints.
Chinatown BBQ
There are plenty of fantastic Chinese BBQ spots in Vancouver, but Chinatown BBQ stands out with arguably the best roast pork in the city. It is something we crave often, and is always a treat when we get the opportunity to visit.
Landmark Hot Pot
They're a Hong Kong-style hot pot that has been around for decades. With high-quality ingredients and large seafood selection make this place a gem amongst locals.
We make our way to Como whenever we have a free evening to relax. The moment you walk in, you feel transported to Spain. The atmosphere is lively, and the food is a journey of flavors. On a recent visit, their porterhouse steak with anchovy butter was sensational. Their wide selection of conservas and tapas makes Como the perfect place to explore a variety of small plates.
Zakkushi
A collective favorite of ours is Zakkushi, which shows how much we love the flavors of Japan. The char-grilled skewers remind us of similar dishes and techniques used in Vietnam. The atmosphere is lively, as well as casual, which makes it a perfect place to go on the regular.
DD MAU
This is one of the first places that highlighted Vietnamese street food. It is also the jumping off point where we first discussed our Lunch Lady journey in Vancouver, so it was only natural that we made sure to highlight this space during Co Thanh’s visits. The owners Kim and Kon as well as their team embody hospitality and are a constant inspiration. Their food is humble, flavorful and soulful. Shout out to their Damn Good Chicken and Rice.
Where is your favorite park in the city?
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver is the first place I visited outside of Asia. I admired the abundance of greenery and the amazing views of the city scape. Queen Elizabeth Park holds a special place in my heart as I would often go to unwind and admire its simple beauty.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood?
Commercial Drive
I love the vibrant, eclectic vibe of Commercial Drive. It's where the energy of the community shines through in the local cafes, artisan shops, and diverse range of restaurants.
Address Book
Lunch Lady
1046 Commercial Dr., Vancouver, V5L 3W9, Canada
Linh Café
1428 Granville St Unit 130, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1N2, Canada
Chinatown BBQ
130 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3, Canada
Landmark Hotpot
4023 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2X9, Canada
¿CóMO? Taperia
201 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver, V5T 0B4, Canada
Zakkushi Dining on Main
4075 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P5, Canada
DD MAU
145 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T6, Canada
Queen Elizabeth Park
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Commercial Drive
Vancouver, BC, Canada
Hero image: Niko Myyra / Lunch Lady Chef Nguyen Thi Thanh
Thumb image: Niko Myyra / Lunch Lady Chef Nguyen Thi Thanh
