Sometimes the best way to spend a day is by hopping in the car and seeing where your appetite takes you. Luckily, just beyond Vancouver’s city limits are plenty of foodie gems worth the drive.
And if you’re looking for the perfect set of wheels for your foodie adventures or thinking of upgrading this season, the Buick Encore GX is made for road trips big and small.
With an ultrawide 11 inch infotainment display to guide you, all-wheel drive to handle BC’s winding roads, and a panoramic moonroof (for those mountain views, obviously), it makes the ride just as fun as the destination.
Add in wireless charging and a suite of six standard safety features — including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, following distance indicator, and IntelliBeam headlights — and you’ve got peace of mind every kilometre of the way.
With that in mind, here are five detours worth making on your next little adventure outside Vancouver.
Fergie’s Cafe
Can you ever beat brunch with a view? Nestled by the Cheakamus River in the beautiful town of Squamish, Fergie’s Cafe serves up legendary Eggs Benny and cozy forest vibes — the perfect pit stop off the Sea to Sky Highway.
Where: 70002 Squamish Valley Rd, Brackendale
Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour
Dip Co. Sandwiches
A taste of Europe right here in Metro Vancouver! Dip Co. in Deep Cove has the most delicious Florentine-style sandwiches — just be ready for a line-up, because it’s that good. Try the Mezze with the award-winning house-made hummus, fresh veggies, and bocconcini, or turn up the heat with the Inferno.
Where: 4381 Gallant Ave, North Vancouver
Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes
Mekong
The flavours of South Asia come alive at this unique Thai gem in Whistler. Executive Chef Boonyawee Khummuang crafts every dish with care, blending fresh ingredients and bold spices rooted in time-honoured traditions.
From fragrant curries to vibrant noodle bowls, the menu is as inviting as the mountain views. Be sure to soak up the last of the season’s sun on their outdoor patio!
Where: 2067 Lake Placid Rd #204, Whistler
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours
Dave’s Fish and Chips
Fish and chips by the seaside is a classic, and Dave’s Fish and Chips in Steveston village doesn’t disappoint. Enjoy golden chips and crispy battered fish fresh from the Pacific in a laid-back setting, or grab your meal to go and stroll along the waterfront. Honestly, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Where: 3460 Moncton St, Richmond
Distance from Vancouver: 40 minutes
Beachcomber Coffee
If you’re okay with taking your Buick Encore GX on a short ferry ride, Sunshine Coast is always worth a trip. At Beachcombers Coffee in Gibsons, enjoy sun, sea views, and the most perfect latte.
This spot also serves up award-winning food, like breakfast wraps, pastries, and delicious donuts.
Where: Gibsons, Sunshine Coast
Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours – including a 40 minute ferry ride
So, there you have it! Work up an appetite and hit the road in your Buick Encore GX this fall for the perfect foodie’s day out.