The 2010 Winter Olympics have begun and Vancouver and Whistler are abuzz with visitors from all over the world. Luckily, for all those who are in town, there are some amazing restaurants to try in both Vancouver and Whistler. I visited both cities last year and will recap here some of my favorite foodie hot spots that are sure to be packed this Olympic season. If you happen to be in town, try any of these and you will not be disappointed.
In Vancouver:
Raincity Grill

Located with a view of the water of English Bay in downtown Vancouver’s West End, Raincity Grill offers all who dine there a true culinary treat. Fresh ingredients and artisanal products are what you will find here, which means everything is seasonal and super flavorful. I had the 100 Mile Tasting Menu when I went there: the entire meal was prepared with ingredients form within 100 miles of the restaurant. You will certainly need reservations if you are going to try to eat here!
www.raoincitygrill.com, 604.685.7337.
Opus Hotel

While in Vancouver, I stayed at the Opus Hotel, which is a very funky place in Yaletown. Besides having great rooms and décor, the hotel also offers the Elixir restaurant and Opus lobby bar, which I would recommend as a great place for happy hour or pre-dinner drinks. In fact, Zagat Guide 2010, awarded Opus as Vancouver’s Most Popular Nightspot. Go for small bites plates of food and unique hand-crafted drinks like the Gold Medal, which is a concoction of Greygoose, Navan and gold flakes.
www.opusbar.ca, 604.642.0557.
In Whistler:
Araxi

Araxi is one of Whistler’s best-known restaurants, and for good reason. The massive 11,000-bottle wine cellar promises to offer guests an incredible selection of more than 1,000 selections of vino, while the décor offers anyone who enters this Whistler Village gem a feast for the eyes. For more than 20 years Araxi has been winning awards and serving up fine local ingredients and seafood. When in Whistler, definitely dine at Araxi.
www.araxi.com, 604.932.4540.
Rimrock Cafe
Located just outside the main Whistler Village, RimRock has been serving up fresh fish and game since 1987. Log cabin-inspired, the cozy atmosphere will warm up any chills from the winter weather in Whistler. When I visited, I enjoyed the RimRock Seafood Trio entrée, but for a unique meal, very specific to the area, some might want to try the venison tenderloin or the northern caribou. Also, seafood lovers will want to try the oysters.
www.rimrockwhistler.com, 604.932.5565.
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