Whistler has become a real foodie destination over the last decade or so, and fresh, local ingredients are readily transformed into casual and fine dining creations by world-class chefs and culinary entrepreneurs.
Our foodie’s guide to Whistler picks out some of the essential eateries to experience along the Sea to Sky Highway, essential for anyone visiting Whistler this summer.
SQUAMISH: Breakfast & Brunch
The area of Squamish is well known for the many adventures on offer, so fuel up with a good breakfast or brunch at the Zephyr Cafe. This cafe is a firm favourite among locals and visitors alike, and their healthy menu selection is brimming with vegan and gluten-free dishes. Try the homemade almond cranberry granola with lemon maple yogurt and blueberries. Alternatively, go all out with the “standing rock” – 2 local free-range eggs, grilled veggies, goat’s cheese, and spinach with the option to add bacon for extra sustenance. Another hugely popular choice with the locals is the WaterShed Grill, located on the stunning banks of the Squamish River.
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FUNCTION JUNCTION: Lunch
During the journey from Squamish to Whistler, you’ll take in some of the best views Canada has to offer, but be sure not to miss Function Junction along the way. This industrial area turned trendy neighbourhood is the place to hang out, and is home to a whole host of independent local businesses, cafes, and restaurants.
Indulge in New York inspired pan pizzas at Functional Pie where the “Train Wreck” pizza is named after a local hike and popular tourist site – the Whistler Train Wreck. At the wreck site, you’ll find abandoned rail cars strewn across the forest, now painted colourfully by local artists. The pizza version is equally as colourful, loaded with capocollo, pepperoni, mushroom, and pecorino.
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Prefer something uber healthy? Try Green Moustache where salads and delicious smoothies are the order of the day.
Work it off… After all that delicious pizza, try your hand at the quintessential Canadian pastime of axe throwing. This fun and hugely popular sport has become something of a global phenomenon and Forged Axe Throwing are one of the original indoor venues. The team at Forged have everything you need to get started and will provide plenty of guidance to get you hitting those bullseyes in no time, as well as stoking up a little friendly rivalry between you and your friends.
WHISTLER: Dinner
The heart of Whistler is where you’ll find an abundance of fine dining options after a day of adventure in the mountains. While there’s an abundance of options to choose from, here’s our pick.
Il Caminetto
For the best of Italian cuisine in the heart of Canada, head to Il Caminetto. Their expert team if chefs blend local flavors from seasonal ingredients with traditional Italian style. Exquisite dishes are complemented with a sumptuous wine menu, and while the food menu changes with each season, you can’t go wrong with their impressive fresh pasta selection.
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Araxi
How could we not include the venue named Best Fine Dining Restaurant in Whistler for eight years?! This is a must-visit if you love seafood. Arguably the tastiest and freshest oysters are served here and the diver caught scallops and pepper crusted venison loin are also dishes for the shortlist.
