Whistler Dining and Eateries
Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring peaks of the Coast Mountains in British Columbia, Whistler is a gem that gleams brightly with snow-capped vistas and thrill-inducing ski slopes. But beyond its rugged, natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, this quaint alpine village harbors another, equally enticing allure – its diverse and dynamic culinary scene.
Long praised as Canada’s premier ski destination, Whistler has quietly blossomed into a hotspot for food aficionados. With a culinary landscape as diverse and vibrant as its world-class ski terrain, Whistler’s eateries strike a delightful balance between traditional mountain comfort food and innovative, globally-inspired cuisine.
From the rustic charm of local bakeries tucked away in its cobblestone streets, to the modern sophistication of gourmet restaurants overlooking the slopes, Whistler’s food scene has something to tantalize every palate. Each restaurant adds a unique flavor to the town’s gastronomic tapestry, making Whistler not just a haven for skiers and snowboarders, but also a playground for the senses of food lovers worldwide.
Join us as we explore all the culinary wonders and tasty delights Whistler has to offer, one bite at a time. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler with a hearty appetite, get ready to be enthralled by the culinary surprises that await in this mountainous paradise.
Fine Dining
Whistler’s culinary scene truly shines when it comes to fine dining, effortlessly merging the charm of its mountainous surroundings with world-class culinary innovation. Alta Bistro, with its farm-to-table approach, offers an exquisite dining experience showcasing the best of local, seasonal produce in their creatively crafted dishes. The intimate, rustic-chic interior and meticulously curated wine list further enhance this fine dining experince.
Equally remarkable is Red Door Bistro, tucked away in Creekside, where the French-influenced West Coast cuisine comes to life with an exceptional fusion of flavors, creating a harmonious symphony that dances on the palate. No mention of Whistler’s fine dining restaurant scene would be complete without Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar, a cornerstone of excellence in the village. Known for its superb seafood offerings, particularly its fresh, locally sourced oysters, Araxi’s commitment to quality and taste is unmatched.
Other notable mentions include the Bearfoot Bistro, famous for its champagne sabering tradition and the Rimrock Café, a cozy spot perfect for those seeking an intimate dining experience featuring exotic game and fresh seafood. Together, these establishments elevate Whistler’s food scene, making it a veritable feast for discerning gourmets.
Alta Bistro
As a true bistro, the menu is flavourful and complex and changes seasonally with a commitment to feature produce from the Pemberton and Fraser Valleys, organic meats from farms and ranches in BC, and local seafood. Named Vancouver Magazine’s top restaurant in Whistler in 2019, Alta Bistro, the contemporary French restaurant is definitely one for the list.
Araxi
Araxi Restaurant and Oyster Bar holds an international reputation for excellence in food, wine and hospitality, including the award for ‘Best Restaurant in Whistler’ by Vancouver Magazine for an unprecedented nine consecutive years.
Bearfoot Bistro
Offerings from the Bearfoot Bistro kitchen are best defined as ‘Modern Canadian Cuisine’. You can enjoy dishes such as Wild Arctic Caribou Chop and Vancouver Island Black Cod. But, what really sets them apart from any other restaurant in Whistler is their unmatched wine and champagne selection. The Bearfoot Bistro is one of 150 places in the world that house Dom Perignon.
The Grill Room
Whistler’s AAA/CAA Four Diamond rated restaurant destination for chops, steak and seafood. The Grill Room’s signature stone fireplace and rich cherry wood wine cabinets create a soft and welcoming ambience for exceptional regional cuisine paired with the finest wines of British Columbia. Menu highlights include dishes that integrate regional ingredients with seasonal influences such as Canadian AAA Prime beef, Ocean Wise seafood and organic produce grown by local farmers.
Hy’s Steakhouse
A warm and inviting oasis for the hungry, discerning palate. This restaurant is well known for its great steak with all the fixings and an elegantly casual setting, complemented by attentive service.
Il Caminetto
In the early days of Whistler, one of the first restaurants to capture the style of a great eatery was Il Caminetto. And over 20 years later, it still has the style, the good food and the deserved reputation.
Il Caminetto can cater to all needs, all tastes and all people. Naturally, pasta is prominent on the menu, but the range of seafood and meat dishes are as varied as the pasta. You may eat light or you may go all out – every food is there to suit your appetite and taste.
Quattro
Quattro offers an invitingly warm atmosphere, contemporary Northern and Central Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list, recognized by Wine Spectator as one of the world’s best. A private room for parties up to 12 people is also available.
The Red Door
This new restaurant opened by Chef RD offers a menu that blends his passion for French cuisine with a little west coast soul. An intimate bistro dining experience not to be missed.
Rim Rock Café
Whistler’s place for fish and game’ the Rim Rock is well known for its pleasant atmosphere, excellent service and amazing eating experience. The Rim Rock is constantly receiving awards, from ‘best of’ in the local paper to international recognition.
Casual Dining
When it comes to dining out, Whistler never fails to impress. For a laid-back lunch after hitting the slopes, head over to Dusty’s Bar & BBQ, a legendary local spot in the Creekside Village known for its mouthwatering barbecue plates and comforting chili bowls.
The casual setting of Splitz Grill invites you to savor their famous gourmet burgers, while El Furniture Warehouse offers a broad menu of comfort foods at wallet-friendly prices, making it a hit among travelers. If pizza and beer are your go-to, Creekbread offers organic, wood-fired pizza with locally sourced ingredients that pair perfectly with their selection of craft brews.
For those in search of global flavors, Main Street Noodles offers a fast-casual Pan-Asian dining experience, serving a variety of noodles and rice dishes from different Asian cuisines. Each of these venues beautifully captures Whistler’s relaxed, friendly vibe while delivering hearty and delicious fare.
Brewhouse
You will find both a pub and a restaurant at the Brewhouse. The cuisine is an inspired and appetizing mix of barbecue and rotisserie classics with exceptional pizza and pasta options like the legendary Parmesan Chicken. These dishes are complemented by the range of handcrafted ales and lagers which they brew on-site.
Caramba
High-energy service with traditionally prepared Mediterranean influenced food. Caramba will welcome you with a very inviting and casual surrounding.
Creekbread
Come in and renew your spirit at Creekbread. Relax and enjoy a natural pizza baked in a primitive wood-fired oven. This is a great option for families.
Dubh Linn Gate
Enjoy warm-hearted Irish hospitality, delicious pub fare and a heated, outdoor patio and firepit. It’s a favourite of locals and visitors alike.
Earls
Earls is famous for it’s fun, friendly and casual atmosphere. The menu has something for everyone, from burgers to full entrée dishes.
Elements
Voted the best tapas by the locals, Elements is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Elements also has a well-chosen wine selection and a cocktail list that makes it an ideal place for late-night sipping.
El Furniture Warehouse
A fun and relaxed pub where everything on the menu is $4.95 utilising quality ingredients, locally and organically sourced where possible to create fresh casual fair.
The Keg
The Keg is known for its legendary Steaks. Enjoy quality food along with a casual and friendly atmosphere. Brandy’s Bar on the main floor is the perfect place to meet friends for cocktails and casual fare year-round.
Milestones
An inviting atmosphere with some of the best views in Whistler and familiar food with a twist!
Pizzeria Antico
New pizzeria located in the north part of Whistler Village. You’ll find wood-fired pizzas, wine flights and a large craft beer selection.
Old Spaghetti Factory
The Old Spaghetti Factory offers great dining value. Traditional pasta dishes served in a fun and casual surrounding make it a great place for all ages to enjoy.
Stonesedge
Located in the Upper Village, Whistler’s favourite gastropub is a hit with locals and visitors alike. Open daily with breakfast, lunch, dinner, apres, and after-hours menus with such items as potato pancakes with coffee-infused maple syrup to falafel bites with spicy ancho barbeque sauce. Thirsty? Try one of their bacon-infused Caesars.
21 Steps
21 Steps is a casual restaurant committed to great food made from scratch. Their attic bar is the perfect place to lounge with old friends or meet new ones. Enjoy tapas-style dinners or full entrée dishes.
Wildwood Bistro and Bar
A family friendly place for breakfast or lunch that is warm and welcoming. Since 2002, this has been a local’s favourite for brunch.
Culinary Experiences
Whistler offers a delectable array of culinary experiences and activities that go far beyond the plate, making it a true paradise for food enthusiasts. The annual Cornucopia Whistler is a must-visit event for wine and food lovers. Held every November, this 11-day extravaganza celebrates local cuisine with wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, gourmet dinners, and workshops hosted by world-class chefs and vintners.
For those seeking an intimate understanding of Whistler’s food culture, the Whistler Tasting Tours offer a delightful gastronomic adventure. These guided walks take guests to several acclaimed restaurants around the village, offering a curated sampling of signature dishes at each venue, often accompanied by wine pairings.
Another popular activity is the Whistler Farmers’ Market, a summer-long event where you can savor locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet regional farmers, learn about sustainable farming, and try out local products like honey, cheeses, baked goods, and more.
Whistler’s culinary scene also offers a range of cooking classes and workshops for those interested in honing their culinary skills. From sushi-making classes to artisanal bread baking workshops, these experiences not only provide hands-on learning but also offer a fun and engaging way to embrace the local food culture.
Craving some culture? Experience some tasty traditional food at the First Nations Feast at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. Enjoy a traditional feast prepared by local indigenous chefs, accompanied by storytelling and performances showcasing the cultural heritage of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. You’ll dine in the traditional Istken Hall and learn about indigenous culture through cultural ambassadors, songs, dances and a short film.
The Mexican Corner
Delicious authentic Mexican food and the best Margaritas in town! This restaurant is a local’s favourite and is operated by experienced Mexican chefs and staff.
Mongolie Grill
Mongolie Grill is all about its World Famous Stirfry – You choose the ingredients and the Mongolie chefs cook it right in front of your eyes. Mongolie Grill maintains the perfect balance of a fun atmosphere, great service, and excellent food.
Nagomi
Conveniently located in the Le Chamios Hotel at the base of Blackcomb, Nagomi Sushi features fresh rolls and traditional Japanese food. Newly updated, and a wide variety of dishes makes Nagomi is a great choice for families or groups. Nagomi also offers take out on their menu, so it’s perfect if you’re exhausted after a long day on the mountain.
Sushi Village
Sushi Village is about as famous in some circles as the world-class ski resort itself. Known for its casual yet vibrant atmosphere, terrific sushi, and legendary sake margaritas, Sushi Village is as much a social experience as it is a dining one. Visitors and locals alike repeatedly make the trip to what has become, an icon of the Whistler social scene.
Tandoori Grill
One of BC’s finest Indian restaurants. Their signature dishes are traditionally prepared in a charcoal-based clay ‘Tandoor’ oven, a favoured technique of the Moghul kings of India.
Teppan Village
Japanese-style steak and seafood restaurant where teppan-yaki chefs entertain guests as they put on a dazzling display of chopping, seasoning, fire and juggling right at the table. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a land lover, highly trained staff will make your authentic Japanese meal a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
The Royal Taste of India
The family-owned Royal Taste of India provides the essence of traditional Indian cuisine with a modern touch – fusion at its finest. Enjoy clay oven cooking spiced to your liking and traditional art and music for a wonderful casual dining experience.
Barn Nork
If you’re looking for tasty, authentic Thai cuisine, look no further than Barn Nork. Both chefs trained at the iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok and take a no-fuss approach in the kitchen, melding the bold and simple flavours of Southeast Asia with locally available ingredients. Available for takeout only.
Lift Coffee Company
Lift Coffee Company is a little café close to the lifts that offers excellent coffee and tea and warm hospitality. This spot also offers sandwiches and breakfast sandwiches and delicious baked goods.
La Cantina | Urban Taco
Enjoy a simple menu that offers a wide variety of fresh and flavourful tacos at very reasonable prices. This urban taco bar with its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere is fast becoming a local’s favourite.
Moguls Coffee House
For great coffee, wraps and baked goods that are prepared fresh daily, swing by for the fast service at Mogul’s Coffee House in the centre of Whistler Village. Relax with a cup of tea and a newspaper on the sunny central patio, a favourite spot among locals.
Peaked Pies
Craving a meat pie? This is the place to go! Peaked Pies offers a wide selection of savoury gourmet Australian meat pies that can be peaked with mashed potatoes and mushy peas. Enjoy a sweet treat and coffee afterwards.
Zogs
Zogs’ is an outdoor hot dog stand in the village serving up dogs, fries and beavertails (fried pastry). Zogs’ is a place for inexpensive, and yummy quick eats.
A Foodie’s Paradise
As you can see, Whistler’s culinary scene is a tapestry woven with flavors, textures, and experiences that extend beyond the expected. A delightful medley of casual fare, fine dining establishments, and vibrant food-based events and experiences that reflects the diversity and richness of this mountain town. Here, each meal becomes a journey that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also immerses you in Whistler’s unique cultural fabric.
However, the real allure of Whistler’s culinary scene lies in its ability to offer something for everyone. From the most discerning food connoisseur to the adventure-seeking traveler looking to refuel, Whistler effortlessly caters to every palate and preference. And in doing so, it doesn’t just serve meals—it serves experiences.
So, as you plan your visit to this alpine paradise, remember to carve out ample time to explore Whistler’s culinary scene. After all, it is more than just a complement to its breathtaking landscape—it’s an integral part of the Whistler experience. So, start planning your Whistler getaway by browsing our portfolio of Whistler accommodation rentals, and begin drafting your to-eat list. Bon appétit!
Commonly asked questions about the culinary scene in Whistler
Whistler boasts a diverse food scene with something to cater to every taste. You’ll find everything from high-end French and Italian cuisine to comforting pub fare, from Pan-Asian delights to farm-to-table bistros, and from gourmet bakeries to fresh seafood restaurants.
Absolutely! Whistler has embraced the plant-based movement with several restaurants offering dedicated vegan or vegetarian menus. In addition, most restaurants in the area are accommodating and can adjust their dishes to cater to dietary restrictions.
Yes, one of the most notable food events in Whistler is the annual Cornucopia festival held in November. It’s an 11-day celebration of food and drink featuring culinary demonstrations, tastings, workshops, and gourmet dinners.
Whistler’s culinary scene is as global as its visitors. You’ll find a multitude of restaurants serving international cuisines, including Italian, Japanese, Mexican,, Indian, and many more.
While Whistler’s atmosphere is generally relaxed, some high-end dining establishments may prefer a smart casual dress code. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s policy when making a reservation.