Introduction

Finding a restaurant that caters to a ketogenic diet can be a challenge, especially when you're looking for more than just a basic salad. In Coquitlam and Port Moody, the food scene is diverse, but keto options require a bit of strategy. This guide is for locals and visitors who want to enjoy a meal out without breaking their carb limits. We'll walk through the specific streets and restaurants where you can find, or easily customize, a satisfying keto meal.

The ketogenic diet, which emphasizes high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate intake, has maintained a steady presence in British Columbia's dietary landscape for years^[1]. While dedicated "keto restaurants" are rare, many establishments in the Tri-Cities offer dishes that are naturally low in carbs or can be expertly modified. The key is knowing where to look and how to order. From the breweries of Port Moody's Brewers Row to the bustling plazas of Coquitlam Centre, keto-friendly eating is entirely possible.

This isn't just about deprivation, it's about discovering new ways to enjoy the local flavors. Whether you're managing dietary needs for health reasons or exploring a low-carb lifestyle, knowing your options makes social dining less stressful. Let's map out your keto dining options in Coquitlam and Port Moody.

Quick Answer

Where to find keto-friendly meals in Coquitlam and Port Moody

Your best bets for keto in Coquitlam and Port Moody are steakhouses, burger joints with lettuce wraps, build-your-own bowl spots, and certain Asian restaurants where you can skip the rice and noodles.

While you won't find a sign saying "Keto Restaurant," several local spots are well-equipped for low-carb requests. In Coquitlam, The Keg Steakhouse & Bar (101 Schoolhouse St) is a reliable staple where you can order any steak with a side of broccoli or asparagus instead of potatoes. For a quick, customizable meal, Chopped Leaf in Coquitlam Centre (2929 Barnet Hwy) lets you build salads and bowls, making it easy to avoid carbs.

In Port Moody, Browns Socialhouse (100 Brew St) on Brewers Row offers burgers that can be wrapped in lettuce instead of a bun, and their steak salad is a solid choice. Rocky Point Ice Cream (2800 Murray St) might be off-limits, but the nearby Pizza Factory allows for custom pizzas, and you can opt for a "crustless" pizza bowl loaded with toppings. For a unique option, Sushi K Kamizato (2401 St. Johns St) in Port Moody offers sashimi and naruto rolls (cucumber-wrapped), which are perfect for keto.

The common thread is communication, don't hesitate to ask for substitutions.

Understanding keto dining out challenges in Coquitlam and Port Moody

Dining out on keto in the Tri-Cities presents a few specific hurdles. The first is the prevalence of hidden carbs in sauces, marinades, and even vegetable dishes. A seemingly innocent stir-fry or salad dressing can be loaded with sugar or starch. The second challenge is the social nature of dining, especially in areas like Brewers Row in Port Moody, where sharing plates and enjoying craft beer (high in carbs) is a big part of the experience. You have to navigate menus with a careful eye.

Another issue is the lack of dedicated keto menus. Unlike Vancouver proper, where niche dietary restaurants are more common, Coquitlam and Port Moody's restaurant scene is built around broader, family-friendly appeal. This means you become an expert at deconstructing dishes. For example, a chicken souvlaki plate at a Greek restaurant is keto if you skip the pita, rice, and potatoes, and just eat the meat, tzatziki (check for added sugar), and salad. It's about identifying the core protein and vegetable components.

Finally, there's the convenience factor. When you're running errands around Coquitlam Centre or IKEA, the easiest options are often carb-heavy: food court noodles, sandwiches, or sushi rolls with rice. Planning ahead is important. Knowing which grocery stores have ready-to-eat keto snacks (like hard-boiled eggs, cheese, or pre-cooked bacon) can be a lifesaver. We'll cover those specific stores later in this guide.

Summary: The main challenges for keto dining in Coquitlam and Port Moody are hidden carbs in sauces, a lack of dedicated keto menus, and the social pressure of carb-centric dining scenes like Brewers Row. Success requires careful menu scrutiny, specifically asking for no sauces or substitutions, and planning ahead. For example, always ask for dressing on the side at Browns Socialhouse to control sugar intake.

Restaurant categories with naturally keto options in Coquitlam and Port Moody

Not every restaurant category is created equal for keto diners. In Coquitlam and Port Moody, your safest bets fall into a few specific types of establishments. By targeting these categories, you dramatically increase your chances of a stress-free, compliant meal.

Steakhouses and Traditional Pubs

This is the most straightforward category. Steakhouses are built for keto. In Coquitlam, The Keg Steakhouse & Bar (101 Schoolhouse St) is the go-to. You can order any cut of steak, such as the 8 oz Top Sirloin (around $32), and pair it with a side of garlic butter sautéed mushrooms and steamed broccoli. Just say no to the bread basket and the potato. Similarly, Earls Kitchen + Bar at Coquitlam Centre (2929 Barnet Hwy) offers several steak and protein-forward options. Their Grilled Chicken Breast ($24) with seasonal vegetables is a simple, reliable choice.

Traditional pubs also work well. John B Neighbourhood Pub in Coquitlam (1046 Austin Ave) has wings (check if they're breaded, opt for dry rub or classic buffalo), and you can order any burger as a lettuce wrap. Their steak sandwich, ordered without the bread and with extra salad, is another easy conversion. The key here is to view the menu as a list of components rather than fixed plates.

Build-Your-Own Bowl and Salad Spots

These are the unsung heroes for customizable keto meals. Chopped Leaf (Coquitlam Centre, 2929 Barnet Hwy) is excellent. You can create a massive salad with a base of kale and spinach, add proteins like grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs, plenty of non-starchy vegetables, and fats like avocado and olives. Choose an olive oil and vinegar dressing. A large custom bowl typically runs $13-$16.

In Port Moody, Freshii (unit 110-320 Newport Dr) operates on the same principle. Their "Metaboost" or "Crave" bowls can be customized: remove the rice or quinoa, double up on greens and protein like steak or tofu, and add healthy fats from avocado. They are transparent about nutrition, so you can check the carb count. For a similar concept with an Asian twist, Rice and Noodle in Coquitlam (3000 Lougheed Hwy #43) allows you to build a bowl and skip the rice or noodles, loading up on meat and vegetables in a broth instead.

Certain Asian Cuisine Restaurants

Asian food is tricky but not impossible. The rule is to avoid rice, noodles, breading, and sweet sauces. Your best options are sashimi, stir-fries ordered with no starch, and hot pots. Sushi K Kamizato (2401 St. Johns St, Port Moody) is a standout. You can enjoy a full meal of assorted sashimi. Ask for "naruto style" rolls, which are wrapped in cucumber instead of rice. Their sunomono salad (cucumber) is also a good side.

For Vietnamese, Pho 99 in Coquitlam (1175 Johnson St) can work if you order a pho and don't eat the noodles. Enjoy the broth, beef, and bean sprouts. For Thai, Sawasdee Thai Restaurant in Coquitlam (2748 Barnet Hwy) will make stir-fries like Pad Gra Prow (basil stir-fry) with no sugar added and serve it on a bed of lettuce instead of rice. It requires clear communication, but they are generally accommodating. For more on navigating Asian menus for specific diets, see our guide on Anti-Inflammatory Foods at Vancouver Asian Restaurants.

Summary: The top restaurant categories for keto in Coquitlam and Port Moody are steakhouses like The Keg, build-your-own bowl spots like Chopped Leaf, and specific Asian restaurants like Sushi K Kamizato for sashimi. These establishments offer either naturally low-carb dishes or highly customizable menus where you can omit rice, noodles, and bread. A typical keto-friendly steak dinner at The Keg costs approximately $35-$45.

Specific menu item recommendations at local keto-friendly restaurants

Let's get specific. Here are actionable orders at real restaurants in the area. These are tested approaches that minimize kitchen confusion and maximize your chance of a great keto meal.

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar (Coquitlam)

• Order: "8 oz Prime Rib, cooked medium-rare, with no potato. Please add a side of steamed broccoli and the garlic butter sautéed mushrooms."
• Why it works: Prime rib is a fattier cut, perfect for keto macros. The broccoli and mushrooms are low-carb vegetable options. The garlic butter adds fat. Avoid any glazes or sauces on the steak (like the peppercorn, which may have thickeners).
• Price Point: ~$38 for the steak + ~$4 per extra side.

Browns Socialhouse (Port Moody)

• Order: "The Socialhouse Burger, please in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun. No fries, substitute with the house salad, dressing on the side. Also, no ketchup."
• Why it works: They are familiar with lettuce wrap requests. The burger patty, cheese, bacon, and avocado are all keto-friendly. Getting the dressing on the side lets you use a sparing amount to control hidden sugars.
• Price Point: ~$19 for the burger as a lettuce wrap.

Sushi K Kamizato (Port Moody)

• Order: "Chef's Choice Sashimi Platter for one, and a Naruto Roll (cucumber-wrapped) with salmon and avocado inside."
• Why it works: Sashimi is pure protein and fat. The naruto roll uses cucumber as a wrapper, eliminating rice entirely. This is one of the easiest ways to enjoy sushi on keto. Skip the soy sauce or use a small amount, as it contains sugar.
• Price Point: Sashimi platters start around $25; Naruto rolls ~$8.

Chopped Leaf (Coquitlam Centre)

• Order: Build your own bowl. Base: Kale & Spinach. Proteins: Grilled Chicken & Hard Boiled Egg. Toppings: Cucumber, Bell Peppers, Red Onion, Olives, Avocado. Dressing: Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar (use sparingly).
• Why it works: Total control. You avoid all starchy ingredients like croutons, corn, beans, and dried fruit. The fats from avocado and olive oil help meet your macros.
• Price Point: ~$15 for a large bowl.

Cactus Club Cafe (Coquitlam, 210-2929 Barnet Hwy)

• Order: "Grilled Chicken Breast with roasted peppers and lemon herb sauce. Substitute the mashed potatoes for extra seasonal vegetables."
• Why it works: Cactus Club is consistent and their menus often note nutritional info. The chicken breast with vegetables is a simple, safe plate. Always verify the seasonal veg isn't something like corn or carrots.
• Price Point: ~$24.

Summary: Specific keto orders in Coquitlam and Port Moody include the Prime Rib at The Keg (no potato), a lettuce-wrapped burger at Browns Socialhouse, sashimi at Sushi K Kamizato, a custom bowl at Chopped Leaf, and grilled chicken with extra veggies at Cactus Club. The average cost for a satisfying keto main course in these restaurants ranges from $15 to $

45. Always confirm with staff about ingredients in sauces and marinades.

How to customize orders and what to avoid for keto in Tri-Cities restaurants

Being proficient at customizing your order is the most important skill for keto dining. The phrasing of your request can make a big difference. Instead of saying "I'm on a diet," which is vague, be specific and polite: "For my burger, could I please have it in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun? And could I substitute the fries for a side salad or vegetables?"

What to Always Ask For:

1. "No bun/bread/tortilla, please." For burgers, sandwiches, wraps.
2. "No rice/noodles/potatoes/fries, please. Can I have extra [broccoli/green beans/salad] instead?" This is a positive swap, not just a removal.
3. "Dressing/sauce/gravy on the side, please." This allows you to control the amount, as many contain sugar or flour.
4. "Is this marinated or cooked with any sugar or sweet sauce?" A critical question for grilled meats and stir-fries.
5. "Can I get that with just olive oil, salt, and pepper?" A simple, safe preparation for vegetables or proteins.

What to Strictly Avoid:

• All obvious carbs: Bread, buns, pasta, rice, quinoa, potatoes, fries, breaded items.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas (common in salads and bowls).
• Starchy vegetables: Corn, peas, carrots, parsnips, squash (unless in small amounts).
• Most fruits: Except for small portions of berries as a garnish.
• Sweetened sauces and condiments: Ketchup, BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, teriyaki, hoisin, most salad dressings (especially creamy ones like honey mustard or Catalina). Opt for mustard, mayo (check for sugar), hot sauce, soy sauce (tamari is better), or vinegar.
• Thickened soups and gravies: Often made with flour or cornstarch.

In the context of Coquitlam and Port Moody, be especially wary at pubs (breading on "crispy" wings or cauliflower), at Asian fusion spots (sweet glazes on ribs or chicken), and at breakfast joints (pancake batter in omelets). When in doubt, choose the simplest preparation: grilled protein with plain vegetables. For more ideas on creative, diet-friendly meals from local restaurants, explore our list of Asian Fusion Restaurants in Vancouver.

Summary: To successfully customize orders for keto in Coquitlam and Port Moody restaurants, request substitutions like lettuce wraps and extra vegetables instead of starch, and always ask for sauces on the side. Strictly avoid all bread, rice, noodles, starchy vegetables, and sweetened condiments. A key tip is to ask, "Is this marinated with sugar?" when ordering grilled meats, as this is a common source of hidden carbs in pub and fusion cuisine.

List of grocery stores for keto snacks and supplies in Coquitlam and Port Moody

Sometimes, you need a quick snack or the ingredients to make your own meal. Fortunately, the Tri-Cities are well-served by grocery stores with excellent keto-friendly sections. This is also useful if you're doing a hybrid approach, like grabbing a prepared item for a picnic at Rocky Point Park.

Major Grocery Chains

• Save-On-Foods (Coquitlam, 1301 Lougheed Hwy & Port Moody, 3130 St. Johns St): These are your best all-around options. Look for their "Blue Menu" or healthy living sections for sugar-free items. They have good selections of pre-cooked bacon, hard-boiled eggs, rotisserie chicken (check for sugary rubs), blocks of cheese, and bags of pre-washed greens. Their meat counters are also reliable.
• Walmart Supercentre (Coquitlam, 3000 Lougheed Hwy): For budget-friendly basics. You can find large packs of eggs, frozen burger patties, bags of frozen cauliflower rice, and affordable cuts of pork and chicken. Their cheese selection is vast.
• Costco (Coquitlam, 1031 United Blvd): The king of bulk buying. Keto staples here include giant bags of almonds and macadamia nuts, blocks of Kerrygold butter, packs of avocados, pre-cooked grilled chicken strips (check ingredients), smoked salmon, and their famous rotisserie chickens (a loss leader at ~$7.99).

Specialty and Health Food Stores

• Famous Foods (Coquitlam, 106-3025 Lougheed Hwy): While not exclusively keto, this is a treasure trove for specialty items. You can find alternative flours (almond, coconut), sugar-free sweeteners like erythritol and monk fruit, chia seeds, hemp hearts, and a wide variety of nuts and seeds in bulk, which can be more affordable.
• Choices Markets (Coquitlam, 100-3000 Lougheed Hwy): A step above for organic and health-focused products. They have a great selection of organic meats, pasture-raised eggs, a large olive and antipasto bar (for fats), and brands like "The Primal Kitchen" for sugar-free condiments and marinades.

Pro-Tip for Delivery: If you find meal prep challenging, consider a local delivery service like The Storm Cafe, which operates in the Vancouver area and often has low-carb or keto-friendly prepared meal options that can be delivered. This can be a convenient bridge between restaurant dining and home cooking. For corporate settings, services like My Great Pumpkin cater office lunches and can often accommodate keto platters upon request.

Having these stores in your back pocket means you're never stuck. You can grab a rotisserie chicken and a bag of salad for an easy home meal, or pack some cheese and nuts for a keto-friendly snack while hiking the Coquitlam Crunch. For planning your food budget, you can use our free income tax calculator to estimate your take-home pay and see how much you can allocate to dining and groceries. For reliable local health and nutrition information, always refer to the BC CDC health information website.

Summary: The best grocery stores for keto snacks and supplies in Coquitlam and Port Moody are Save-On-Foods for prepared items like hard-boiled eggs and rotisserie chicken, Costco for bulk nuts and meats, and Famous Foods for specialty low-carb baking ingredients. A Costco rotisserie chicken costs approximately $7.99 and provides multiple keto-friendly meals. These stores ensure you always have compliant food on hand, reducing reliance on restaurants.

Key Takeaway

You can successfully eat keto in Coquitlam and Port Moody by focusing on steakhouses, customizable bowl restaurants, and specific Asian spots for sashimi. The key is clear communication: ask for no buns or rice, substitute extra vegetables, and get sauces on the side. Always check for hidden carbs in marinades and dressings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any fully keto restaurants in Port Moody?

No, there are no restaurants in Port Moody that are 100% dedicated to a ketogenic menu. However, several restaurants are exceptionally keto-friendly. Sushi K Kamizato is ideal for sashimi and cucumber-wrapped rolls. Browns Socialhouse on Brewers Row easily accommodates lettuce wrap burgers and salad substitutions. The key is to order strategically from their existing menus.

What can I eat at a food court in Coquitlam Centre on keto?

Your best option in the Coquitlam Centre food court is Chopped Leaf, where you can build a custom salad bowl without croutons, beans, or corn. Another possibility is Manchu Wok, if you order a stir-fry and ask for it with no rice or noodles, just meat and low-carb vegetables (like broccoli, peppers), and request no sweet sauce. Always double-check ingredients.

Can I get a keto breakfast in Coquitlam?

Yes, but it requires customization. At a diner like John B Neighbourhood Pub (which serves breakfast), order eggs any style with bacon or sausage, and ask for no toast, no hash browns, and substitute with sliced tomatoes or avocado if available. Many coffee shops also offer simple snacks like cheese strings or hard-boiled eggs.

What are the best keto-friendly options at a Port Moody brewery?

On Brewers Row, your safest bet is to order food from the attached restaurants like Browns Socialhouse (lettuce wrap burger). If you're at the brewery taproom itself, look for snack plates like a charcuterie board (skip the bread and fruit, eat the cheese and meat), or dry-rub wings (confirm no breading). Remember, the beer itself is high in carbs, so opt for a glass of water, diet soda, or a spirit with soda water.

Where can I find keto desserts in the Tri-Cities?

Dedicated keto desserts are rare in restaurants. Your best bet is to look at specialty grocery stores. Choices Markets or Save-On-Foods sometimes carry sugar-free cheesecakes or dark chocolate (85%+ cocoa). Alternatively, you can make your own using ingredients from Famous Foods, like almond flour and erythritol.

Is it rude to make special requests for keto at local restaurants?

Not if done politely. Restaurants in Coquitlam and Port Moody are generally accommodating to dietary requests. Be clear, specific, and polite. Phrasing it as, "Could I please have the burger without the bun, in a lettuce wrap if possible?" is perfectly acceptable. It's more challenging for the kitchen if you order a complex dish and then send it back.

How do I know if a sauce is keto-friendly?

You must ask. Don't assume. Sauces like gravy, teriyaki, BBQ, sweet chili, and even some vinaigrettes are often loaded with sugar or thickeners. Always ask for sauces and dressings on the side. Safe bets are olive oil, vinegar, mustard, mayonnaise (check label), hot sauce, and butter. The BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association provides resources on food safety and ingredients, which can sometimes be helpful.

References

[1] Statistics Canada, "Food and Drink Services, Summary Statistics," 2024. Annual revenue and employment data for Canadian food service industry. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=2110017001

[2] Government of British Columbia, "Food Safety," 2025. Provincial food safety regulations and restaurant inspection requirements. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/keeping-bc-healthy-safe/food-safety

[3] Destination Vancouver, "Vancouver Restaurants and Dining," 2026. Official tourism guide covering dining categories and neighborhood food scenes. https://www.destinationvancouver.com/restaurants/

[4] BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, "Industry Report," 2025. Annual report on BC restaurant industry trends, labor, and revenue. https://www.bcrfa.com/

[5] Restaurants Canada, "Foodservice Facts," 2025. National restaurant industry statistics including delivery and takeout trends. https://www.restaurantscanada.org/

[6] Daily Hive Vancouver, "Food Section," 2026. Local news coverage of Vancouver restaurant openings, closures, and food trends. https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/food