Have you checked out Vancouver’s Waterfront lately? If it’s been a little while since your last visit, you might be surprised by all the changes!
The Waterfront has undergone a remarkable transformation since construction began in 2018. It has evolved from an abandoned mill site into a vibrant hub of activity that rivals any big city amenities across the river, and it’s become a spot you shouldn’t miss!
The Waterfront district offers something for everyone–an interactive water play feature that’s a magnet for kids, dining options ranging from a casual meal to the perfect special occasion outing, and elegant hotels, condos, and apartments where you can call the neighborhood home.
Waterfront Park is the perfect spot for a stroll. Winding paved (and ADA accessible) paths offer a front row view for people watching along Waterfront Way or a riverfront route that’s more removed from the bustle. Walkways are anchored by the iconic cable-stayed Grant Street Pier to the west and the new Terminal 1 to the east.
Terminal 1 is one of the latest changes you’ll see at the waterfront. A project of the Port of Portland, Terminal 1 is contiguous with the Vancouver Waterfront. Vancouver Landing is an outdoor space featuring walking paths, docks for both riverboats and private vessels, and benches where you can sit and enjoy the view. From here, you’ll soon be able to connect with the waterfront Renaissance Trail, which continues east for another five miles.
At this end of the district, two towering buildings are joined by a public space dubbed “The Launch,” which features a striking modern staircase connecting the waterfront with surrounding streets. This beautifully landscaped switchback path leads to an elevated observation area with stunning views of the Columbia River.
Ultimately, Terminal 1 will include a Public Market in the style of Seattle’s Pike Place Market, located at the site of the port’s original 1920s warehouse. The Vancouver edition will be a 40,000 square foot warehouse-like structure housing farm-to-table produce, restaurants, bars, entertainment, and specialty shops. Construction is breaking ground and is planned for 2026-2028.
Every time I visit the Waterfront I am struck by the miracle of an entirely new city district springing up seemingly overnight. There are new restaurants, hotels, condos, and shops emerging as the district comes closer to its final form. There are still a few empty blocks and Terminal 1 is underway by the Port, so you’ll have to keep coming back to see what else is new.
Here’s a roundup of dining experiences at the Waterfront, from pre-dinner libations to a casual bite, a special occasion experience, or a sweet treat. These days, there are so many options, it’s hard to pick from all the terrific restaurants.
Dining on the Waterfront
Libations
Witness Tree Lounge crowns the Hotel Indigo on Vancouver’s waterfront, offering a stylish rooftop escape with indoor and outdoor balcony seating, panoramic views of the Columbia River and Portland skyline, and a curated selection of Pacific Northwest–inspired small plates and handcrafted cocktails
Special Days or Every Day
The Waterfront has been a great spot for dining since its earliest days.
Twigs Bistro is a waterfront pioneer, one of the earliest restaurants to open there, and offers relaxed riverside dining with both indoor seating and a covered patio that overlooks the Columbia River. Their seasonal American menu features delicious handmade pizzas, salads, steaks, seafood, and an extensive martini, wine, and local craft beer list—plus vegan, gluten‑free, and kids’ options. And, they have a popular happy hour menu with extensive options.
Wildfin American Grill joined Twigs Bistro to anchor the then-fledgling waterfront, and has continued to be a popular spot with its upscale modern feel, bright and open layout, and scenic patio. Here you can savor sustainable seafood, farm-fresh ingredients, and handcrafted cocktails as you watch the river roll by with Mt. Hood in the background.
Ondus on the Waterfront opened in 2025 to serve tapas and large plates with a Mediterranean influence as well as cocktails in a chill but elegant space. It’s a great spot to sit on the outdoor patio overlooking Vancouver Landing.
Shinsen Sushi & Lounge brought some much-needed sushi (in this writer’s opinion!) to the Waterfront. It’s an elegant spot serving classic Japanese dishes along with sushi, innovative cocktails, and a wide variety of sake.
Dosalas latin kitchen + tequila bar serves foods inspired by Latin American and beyond. It’s an elegant spot on the second story with an expansive view of the river.
13 Coins is an extension of the iconic Seattle-based diner and is outfitted with the signature high‑backed booths, swiveling captain’s chairs, and open exhibition kitchen. Situated within the Hotel Indigo, it offers indoor seating and seasonal patio space right by the Columbia River, and its late‑night hours make it a lively hub for everything from business meetings to relaxed late‑night hangs.
El Gaucho is known for delivering a special experience, with exceptional meals and old-school, tableside service. Charcoal-grilled steaks and fresh seafood are served in an elegant riverside setting suitable for the most memorable occasions.
Casual Eats
For a more casual meal, Grassa is a bright and casual counter‑service spot where you can watch fresh pasta being made in an open kitchen, from classics like carbonara and cacio e pepe to inventive house specialties like pork belly mac and cheese. They serve bowls of fresh pasta paired with traditional and seasonal salads, delicious appetizers, and tasty cocktails. With a laid‑back vibe (plus dog‑friendly patio seating), it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
Or, grab a towering burger at Stack 571 Burger & Whiskey Bar. This casual yet vibrant burger and whiskey bar serves towering gourmet burgers, boozy milkshakes, and over 100 varieties of whiskey.
Ruse Brewing’s Crust Collective is a bright, family-friendly taproom that serves Detroit-style square pizzas–mouth-watering classics with beautifully caramelized cheese edges and creative toppings. You can wash it down with a rotating menu of Ruse beers, natural wines, and cider.
Waterfront Taphouse blends upscale pub fare with a sweeping view of the Grant Street Pier and the Columbia River. Choose from hearty burgers, tacos, small plates, beers, and cocktails while enjoying the location’s indoor‑outdoor atmosphere, including cozy seating by a fireplace and a TV with the game playing.
What a Catch is a seasonal walk-up fish bar operated by Wildfin American Grill. You can order up some beer-battered seafood like Alaskan cod and halibut fish & chips, tacos, or chowder to enjoy in the park. Grab a quick lunch, family snack, or casual early evening bite and enjoy it with a prime riverside setting.
Wine on the Waterfront
If you want to sample local wines and enjoy a few nibbles, the Waterfront has you covered. Maryhill Winery Vancouver Tasting Room & Bistro offers award-winning Washington wines alongside flavorful small plates—such as Dungeness crab rolls and charcuterie—served in a stylish riverside setting.
Willamette Valley Vineyards was voted Best Wine Tasting Room by USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards in 2024. This tasting room and casual dining spot offers daily pairings of classic Oregon wines with fresh local Pacific Northwest foods at lunch or dinner. If you’d like a more hands-on experience, register for the Red Blending Experience. Their expert team will guide you through a series of five specially chosen Walla Walla appellated varietals, which culminates in creating your own blend of red wine.
Evoke Winery crafts award-winning wines from vineyards across the Northwest, allowing them to choose the best fruit available each year. If you want a bite to eat with your vino, charcuterie and other small bites are on the menu or you can order a pizza from next door.
Airfield Estates Winery Tasting Room is the local venue for a Yakima Valley vineyard situated on the site of a historic World War II flight school. Today, they grow 20 varietals of wine grapes on 830 acres, which are crafted into well-balanced wines showcasing the subtleties of the region’s terrior.
Barnard Griffin’s tasting room, in the Rediviva building, welcomes walk‑in visitors Wednesday through Sunday with a bright, art‑filled space showcasing colorful fused‑glass panels by co‑owner Deborah Barnard. It offers an impressive selection of approximately 20 varietals—especially their reserve lineup and port‑style wines—not typically available in stores, and regularly hosts educational wine‑themed events, like master classes and seasonal tastings.
Brian Carter Cellars handcrafts wines that reflect classic elegance and the centuries-old tradition found in true European-style blends. Balanced and well-rounded, each wine from Washington State’s unique terroir pairs beautifully with food. Their team will guide you through a casual and personalized tasting of their wines, and you can enjoy a selection of shareable small plates like flatbreads, salads, and crab cakes in their bright, dog-friendly space .
Coffee and Sweet Treats
Grab a cuppa expertly brewed espresso, cold brews, or pour over at Kafiex Roasters. They roast small batches of sustainably-sourced coffee beans in-house, and serve up award-winning coffee, fresh pastries, and all-day breakfast in a vibrant, welcoming space.
Finish off your meal with a sweet treat at Portland favorite Salt and Straw, with its unique rotating small-batch flavors of ice cream—ranging from classics like Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons to inventive offerings like Olive Oil and Blue Cheese Peach.
Or, grab a fanciful towering milkshake at The Yard Milkshake Bar, a Shark Tank–featured dessert destination serving extravagant “freak shakes,” sundaes, edible cookie dough, and mason‑jar ice cream creations—with 25 flavors, 60 toppings, and even vegan and dairy‑free options.
