Maple Ridge, located in the lower mainland of British Columbia, is a sought-after residential area because of its affordable homes and stunning natural beauty. Flanked by the Fraser River and the Golden Ears mountain, Maple Ridge is well-known for its nature and wildlife. But did you know that Maple Ridge has a rich restaurant scene, too? The variety of options in the area are wide, each one offering a different gastronomic experience every time.
Here are our five favourite places to eat at Maple Ridge:
GM Restaurant
Family-owned GM restaurant – it is named after the initials of the owner’s sons – has been hailed by locals as the best Indian restaurant in Maple Ridge. Their authentic fare, combined with friendly customer service, has kept clients coming back for more. Dishes are served in generous sharing sizes, perfect for families or groups of friends with big appetites. House favourites include the garlic naan, Tandoori chicken, and vegetable Kashimiri.
Black Sheep Public House
Black Sheep has been voted the best pub in the Maple Ridge and Ridge Meadows Areas, thanks to their extensive and innovative menu, excellent customer service, and solid drink selection. Customers call it their local pub, often coming in for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a random day to enjoy the fun, lively atmosphere. With reasonable prices, it’s easy to see why Black Sheep is such a fan favourite. Regulars recommend the beef ribs, the Thai noodle salad, and the halibut burger.
Big Feast Bistro
Big Feast is a decade-old vegan restaurant that employs the 100-mile food concept, which aims to only source foods within a hundred-mile radius. Even though they also serve meat dishes, their commitment to sustainability and healthy food gave locals in the area more dining options, especially for those who are conscious about what they eat. Some even say that Big Feast’s vegan options outshine the meat dishes in presentation and taste! Customer favourites include the crab Benny, pulled pork hash, and the Dahl salad.
Kingfishers Waterfront Bar and Grill
Situated on the banks of the Fraser River, Kingfishers offers a gorgeous waterfront view of B.C.’s longest river from every corner of the room. Aside from the breathtaking scenery, Kingfishers offers delicious, locally-sourced food and live music, making sure their guests are fully entertained at every turn. Locals praise the attentive staff, who were very knowledgeable about the food and drink selection. Check out their fresh seafood dishes and the house favourites like the Kanaka Creek salad and Panko-crusted tenders.
Chameleon
Chameleon, located at the heart of Downtown Maple Ridge, combines the relaxed vibe of a casual dining joint with a fine dining restaurant’s sophisticated aesthetic. The warm, wooden interiors, 25-foot ceilings, and open kitchen all work together to create a stylish affair that’s sure to leave guests in awe of their surroundings. Furthermore, the well-trained, approachable staff are incredibly hospitable, making everyone feel like royalty. Dishes, sourced from local farms and markets, are served in a staggered manner, helping diners bask in their food as much as possible. Come here for date nights or special occasions, and you’re sure to have a memorable evening. Try out the best the local fare has to offer, including the Fraser Valley Pork Belly + Wild Canadian Scallops, the Vancouver Island Albacore Tuna Crudo, and the Chef’s five-course tasting menu, which is available by reservation.