Introduction

Lonsdale Quay Public Market serves over 2.5 million visitors annually, making it one of Metro Vancouver's most visited public markets^[1]. For over 35 years, it has been the culinary and community heart of North Vancouver's waterfront. This guide cuts through the crowds to show you exactly where to eat, from the iconic permanent vendors to the best seasonal pop-ups.

If you're coming from Vancouver, the SeaBus ride is part of the experience. You get off the boat and walk right into a world of food. The market is a practical destination for grabbing groceries, a quick lunch, or a full sit-down meal with a view. It's also a key stop on any food tour of the North Shore. I've been coming here for years, and this guide is based on countless visits, trying everything from the classic fish and chips to the newest dumpling stall.

Quick Answer

Lonsdale Quay Market Food Guide

The best food at Lonsdale Quay Market is found at its permanent seafood vendors, artisan bakeries, and international food stalls, with sit-down options on the upper level and surrounding plaza.

Start with the classics: fresh oysters at The Lobster Man (Unit 6), fish and chips at Crab Shop (Unit 19), and a loaf of sourdough from Livia Sweets (Unit 26). For a quick, delicious lunch under $15, head to Pasta Polo (Unit 44) for fresh pasta or Sushi Lonsdale (Unit 41) for reliable rolls. If you want a sit-down restaurant with a view, The Green Leaf (123 Carrie Cates Ct) on the upper level offers Korean comfort food overlooking the water. The market is open daily from 9am to 7pm, with individual vendor hours varying.

For a broader look at similar spots, check out our Complete Guide to Vancouver Food Halls and Markets 2026.

History and Layout of Your Lonsdale Quay Market Food Tour

Lonsdale Quay Market opened in 1986 alongside the SeaBus terminal, designed as a community hub connecting North Vancouver to downtown. The two-level building is straightforward to navigate. The main food action is on the ground floor, which is the public market. This is where you'll find the permanent vendor stalls selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to prepared meals. The upper level, called The Gallery, houses sit-down restaurants and specialty retail shops.

When you enter from the SeaBus or the plaza, you'll be in the central atrium. To your left (west side) are often the produce vendors and flower shops. The north and east walls are where many of the iconic prepared food and grocery vendors are anchored. The center of the floor is filled with tables for eating, which can get busy during peak lunch hours (12-1:30pm). A key tip: walk the entire perimeter once before deciding what to eat. You'll see everything from perogies to poke bowls. The layout encourages exploration, and hidden gems are often tucked in the corners.

The market is more than just a tourist stop. It's a genuine grocery destination for Lower Lonsdale residents. You'll see locals picking up their daily catch from the fishmongers or their weekly bread from the bakeries. This blend of tourist and local traffic ensures quality and variety. The management actively curates the vendor mix, supporting long-term staples while rotating in new, interesting pop-ups to keep things fresh. For insights into other culturally rich food courts, see our Richmond Food Court Guide: Aberdeen and Crystal Mall.

Summary: Lonsdale Quay Market is a two-level public market established in 1986, directly connected to the SeaBus terminal. The ground floor houses all permanent food vendors and eateries around a central seating atrium, while the upper level features sit-down restaurants. The best strategy is to walk the entire perimeter of the ground floor to see all options, like The Lobster Man and Livia Sweets, before choosing, as the central tables fill quickly at lunch. The market successfully functions as both a tourist destination and a local grocery hub.

Permanent Vendor Guide: The Best Stands for Your Lonsdale Quay Meal

The backbone of the market is its permanent vendors. These are the businesses that have often been here for decades, serving generations of customers. They are the must-visit spots for quality and consistency.

Seafood and Fresh Catch

This is what the Quay is famous for. You have two primary options for fresh seafood. The Lobster Man (Unit 6) is an institution. They get daily deliveries of live lobster, crab, oysters, and mussels. You can buy them to take home, or they'll shuck oysters on the spot for you to eat at the market tables. A dozen freshly shucked oysters will cost around $24-$30, depending on the variety. Right next door, Crab Shop (Unit 19) is your go-to for prepared seafood. Their halibut fish and chips ($18-22) are a benchmark, using fresh, flaky halibut in a light, crispy batter.

They also offer seafood chowder, crab cakes, and smoked salmon. According to Health Canada food nutrition guidelines, seafood is an excellent source of essential nutrients, and buying it fresh from trusted vendors is a great choice.

Baked Goods and Sweet Treats

You cannot leave without something baked. Livia Sweets (Unit 26) is a bakery that focuses on sourdough and Italian pastries. Their country sourdough loaf (about $8) has a perfect crust and chewy interior. For something sweet, their bomboloni (Italian filled doughnuts, around $4.50 each) are legendary, with flavors like vanilla custard and salted caramel. Another standout is Pablo & Rusty (Unit 46), though known for coffee, they also have a selection of excellent pastries from local bakeries.

Their almond croissant is a particular highlight.

International Eats and Quick Lunches

This is where you find your meal. Pasta Polo (Unit 44) makes fresh pasta daily. You can buy it to take home, or they will cook a portion for you with your choice of sauce. A plate of fettuccine alfredo with chicken costs about $14 and is ready in minutes. Sushi Lonsdale (Unit 41) is a reliable, no-frills sushi spot with a constant line. Their assorted sashimi plate ($16) is fresh and a good value. For something different, look for Pierogi's (often in a central kiosk), serving handmade Polish pierogi with toppings like fried onions and sour cream.

A serving of 6-8 pierogi costs around $12.

Summary: The essential permanent food vendors at Lonsdale Quay Market include The Lobster Man (Unit 6) for fresh oysters, Crab Shop (Unit 19) for classic halibut fish and chips, and Livia Sweets (Unit 26) for sourdough and bomboloni. For a quick lunch, Pasta Polo (Unit 44) offers fresh cooked pasta for around $14, while Sushi Lonsdale (Unit 41) provides reliable sashimi. These vendors represent the core, high-quality food experience that has defined the market for locals and visitors for years.

Seasonal and Pop-Up Vendors to Look For

While the permanent vendors provide stability, the rotating pop-ups and seasonal stalls are what keep the market dynamic. These vendors often set up in the central kiosks or in designated spots along the walls. They typically operate on weekends or for limited seasonal runs, like during the summer or around holidays.

In the summer months, you can almost always find a fresh lemonade or mini-donut stand. These are perfect for enjoying on the outdoor patio. Another common summer pop-up is a crepe station, offering both sweet and savory thin crepes made to order. During the fall and winter, look for vendors specializing in hot drinks and warm treats. I've seen excellent hot chocolate stalls and even one serving Dutch poffertjes (mini pancakes).

The most exciting pop-ups are often the ones bringing specific cultural cuisines to the market for a limited time. In recent years, I've seen successful stalls serving Filipino sisig, Malaysian laksa, and Ukrainian varenyky (similar to pierogi). These stalls are a great way to try something new without a big commitment. They also indicate what food trends are resonating in Vancouver. The market's management uses these pop-ups to test potential future permanent vendors, so if you love a pop-up, let them know.

You might see it become a fixture. For those who love exploring specific flavor profiles, our Spicy Food Guide Vancouver: From Mild to Mala can point you to other permanent spots around the city.

The best way to find out who's currently popping up is to check the Lonsdale Quay Market website or social media before your visit. They usually post weekly updates. If you're just walking in, take a slow lap around the entire ground floor. Pop-up signage is usually bright and clear, and there's often a sample or a compelling smell to guide you.

Summary: Seasonal and pop-up vendors at Lonsdale Quay Market, often found in central kiosks, include summer lemonade stands, crepe stations, and winter hot treat vendors. The most notable are limited-time stalls featuring specific cuisines like Filipino sisig or Malaysian laksa, which allow visitors to try new foods. These pop-ups, which test potential permanent vendors, are best discovered by checking the market's social media or doing a full walk-through upon arrival, as they change weekly or seasonally.

Sit-Down Restaurants Inside and Around the Quay

Sometimes you want a proper table, cutlery, and a waiter. The market area offers several excellent sit-down options, both inside the market building and in the immediate surrounding plaza.

Inside the Market (Upper Level): The Gallery on the upper level houses a few sit-down spots. The Green Leaf (123 Carrie Cates Ct, Upper Level) is a long-standing favorite for Korean comfort food. Their dolsot bibimbap (hot stone bowl rice, around $18) is fantastic, and they have great views of the waterfront from their window seats. It's a step above a food court meal in terms of comfort and service. Another upper-level option is Pizzeria Farina, which is actually just outside the market doors on the upper plaza.

They serve excellent, simple Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. A margherita pizza costs about $18.

In the Surrounding Plaza: The area around the Quay, known as The Shipyards, has exploded with dining options. For a true special occasion meal, Cactus Club Cafe (125 Carrie Cates Ct) is right on the water with a massive patio and reliable, upscale casual fare. Their butternut squash ravioli is a consistent winner. For something more unique, Nook (151 Carrie Cates Ct) offers a cozy Italian trattoria feel with delicious pasta and a great wine list. Their cacio e pepe is a must-try. If you're with a group that can't decide, Tap & Barrel (90 Carrie Cates Ct) is a few minutes' walk east along the waterfront.

They have a huge menu with lots of share plates, local beers on tap, and arguably the best patio views in North Vancouver.

These restaurants are perfect for when the market seating is too hectic or when you want a more relaxed, extended dining experience. They also tend to be open later than the market vendors, making them ideal for dinner. For a wider view of regional Asian cuisine in the metro area, our Surrey and South Vancouver Asian Food Guide explores other destinations.

Summary: For sit-down dining at Lonsdale Quay, The Green Leaf on the market's upper level offers Korean bibimbap with waterfront views. Directly outside in the plaza, Cactus Club Cafe provides upscale casual dining on a large patio, while Nook is a cozy spot for Italian pasta. These restaurants, open later than the market stalls, are ideal for relaxed dinners and are located within a two-minute walk of the market entrance at 123 Carrie Cates Ct.

Best Items for a Quick Bite vs. a Full Meal at the Market

Your strategy at the Quay should depend on your time and hunger level. The market excels at both quick grabs and full, composed meals.

For a Quick Bite (Under 10 minutes, under $15): Your goal is to grab something delicious and find a seat (or eat while walking). The best options are single-item vendors. Grab a bomboloni from Livia Sweets ($4.50). It's a perfect hand-held sweet treat. For savory, get a sausage roll from one of the butcher stalls (like Two Rivers Specialty Meats) – they are usually hearty, flaky, and around $ 7. A bowl of seafood chowder from Crab Shop (about $8 for a cup) is warming and fast. Or, opt for a few freshly shucked oysters from The Lobster Man – they'll shuck them right in front of you. If you need a full mini-meal quickly, the pierogi or a single roll of fresh pasta from Pasta Polo are your best bets. They are designed for fast service.

For a Full Meal (A sit-down experience, $15-$30): This is where you combine items or go for a larger plate. Assemble your own picnic: get a half-dozen oysters ($12-$15) from The Lobman, a slice of quiche or a salad from the produce vendors, and a piece of fruit for dessert. Eat it at the market tables or, better yet, take it outside to the waterfront benches. Alternatively, commit to a classic: a full order of halibut fish and chips from Crab Shop ($22) with a side of coleslaw.

It's a filling, iconic Quay meal. If you're with someone, you can share a sashimi plate from Sushi Lonsdale ($16) and a fresh pasta dish from Pasta Polo ($14) to get variety.

The beauty of the market is the mix-and-match potential. You're not locked into one kitchen's menu. You can create a meal from three different continents if you want. Just remember, if you're getting multiple hot items, try to coordinate pickup times or get the cold items first. For those who love the convenience of prepared meals but want them for home, services like The Storm Cafe offer meal delivery, which is a different kind of food solution explored in our Complete Guide to Meal Prep Services in Vancouver 2026.

Summary: For a quick bite under $15 at Lonsdale Quay Market, choose hand-held items like a Livia Sweets bomboloni ($4.50), a sausage roll from a butcher, or a cup of chowder from Crab Shop. For a full meal, either assemble a picnic with oysters, salad, and fruit, or opt for a substantial single dish like the $22 halibut fish and chips from Crab Shop. The market's layout allows for efficient grab-and-go eating or a leisurely multi-vendor meal.

How to Pair Your Food with the SeaBus and Waterfront Views

The experience of eating at Lonsdale Quay is deeply connected to its location. You should plan your visit around the transit and the scenery.

The SeaBus Strategy: The SeaBus from Waterfront Station takes about 12 minutes. It runs every 15-30 minutes depending on the time of day. The best food-focused trip is to take a late morning SeaBus (say, 11:00 am). You'll avoid the worst of the lunch rush. Have your meal at the market, then walk off your lunch along the Waterfront Walkway towards The Shipyards. You can walk all the way to the Polygon Gallery. Then, take the SeaBus back. It's a perfect 2-3 hour outing. If you're coming for dinner at a plaza restaurant, take the SeaBus over for a sunset view, then enjoy your meal as the city lights come on.

The last SeaBus leaves around midnight, but always check the schedule.

Best Views While Eating: If you want to eat with a view, you have options. Inside the market, the tables by the west windows (near Livia Sweets) look out towards the marina and the mountains. They are prime real estate. The upper level seating area outside The Green Leaf also has great sightlines. For the best experience, take your food to go. Walk out the west doors of the market (near the bus loop) and you'll find a series of public benches and steps right on the water. This is my preferred spot.

You can watch the SeaBus come and go, see floatplanes land, and look back at the Vancouver skyline. In summer, it's glorious.

The Evening Vibe: The market itself winds down by 7pm, but the plaza restaurants stay busy. The area is beautifully lit at night. Getting a dessert from the market (like a pastry) and eating it on the waterfront steps in the evening is a simple, perfect way to end a day. The Destination Vancouver restaurant guide often features Quay-area restaurants for their combination of cuisine and scenery.

Summary: The ideal Lonsdale Quay food trip involves taking the 12-minute SeaBus from Waterfront Station, arriving by 11am to beat the lunch crowd. The best dining views are from the public benches directly outside the market's west doors, overlooking the marina. For a complete experience, eat at the market, walk the waterfront path, and return by SeaBus, using the journey as part of the meal's ambiance.

Parking, Transit, and Accessibility for Your Food Visit

Getting to the Quay is easy, but planning avoids frustration, especially on weekends.

Transit (The Best Way): The SeaBus is the iconic and most recommended route. It connects directly from Waterfront Station's SkyTrain network. The SeaBus terminal is integrated into the market building; you walk off the boat and are inside within 30 seconds. Numerous bus routes also terminate at Lonsdale Quay. The 239 from Phibbs Exchange, the 240 from Lynn Valley, and the 250 from Horseshoe Bay all stop right outside. Use TransLink's Trip Planner for the latest schedules.

Parking: There is paid parking underground at the market itself. The entrance is off Carrie Cates Court. Rates are typically around $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of about $15- 18. This lot fills up on weekends and sunny days, often by noon. There is also metered street parking on surrounding streets like Esplanade and Chesterfield Avenue. These are usually limited to 2 hours. A larger, often-less-full paid parking lot is located at The Shipyards (125 Victory Ship Way), which is a 5-7 minute walk from the market. Walking from here allows you to enjoy the waterfront path.

Accessibility: The main market entrance from the plaza and the SeaBus terminal is level and accessible. The market interior on the ground floor is all on one level with wide aisles. The central seating area can get congested, making wheelchair navigation tricky at peak times. There are elevators to access the upper level (The Gallery). Accessible washrooms are available on both levels. The outdoor waterfront benches and paths are also fully accessible. For the most current public health guidance when visiting public spaces, you can refer to BC CDC health information.

Summary: The best way to visit Lonsdale Quay Market for food is by SeaBus, which docks directly at the building. Paid underground parking is available but often fills by noon on weekends, in which case The Shipyards lot (125 Victory Ship Way) is a good alternative. The market is fully accessible with level entries, elevators to the upper level, and accessible washrooms, though the central ground-floor seating can be crowded during lunch hours.

Key Takeaway

Lonsdale Quay Market is a definitive North Vancouver food destination where you can eat fresh-shucked oysters, halibut fish and chips, and artisan sourdough all in one visit. Focus on permanent vendors like The Lobster Man, Crab Shop, and Livia Sweets for quality, use the SeaBus for the full experience, and take your food to the waterfront benches for the best views. It works for a quick $10 bite or a leisurely $30 multi-course meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-try foods at Lonsdale Quay Market?

The absolute must-tries are the fresh oysters at The Lobster Man (Unit 6), the halibut fish and chips at Crab Shop (Unit 19), and a bomboloni (filled doughnut) from Livia Sweets (Unit 26). For a quick lunch, the fresh pasta at Pasta Polo (Unit 44) is a local favorite. These items represent the classic, high-quality market experience.

Is Lonsdale Quay Market open on weekends?

Yes, the Lonsdale Quay Public Market is open seven days a week. General hours are 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, but individual vendor hours may vary, especially for restaurants on the upper level and in the surrounding plaza, which often stay open later for dinner. It's always busiest on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Where is the best place to sit and eat food from the market?

The best views are not at the indoor market tables. Take your food outside through the west doors (near the bus loop) to the series of public benches and steps right on the waterfront. You'll get panoramic views of the marina, SeaBus activity, and the Vancouver skyline. Inside, the tables by the west-facing windows are the next best option.

How do I get to Lonsdale Quay Market from downtown Vancouver?

Take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station. The trip takes approximately 12 minutes, and the SeaBus dock is built directly into the market complex. You disembark and walk straight into the food hall. It's part of the TransLink system, so a standard fare (2-zone during peak hours) applies. It's the most scenic and efficient way to get there.

Can I buy fresh groceries and seafood to take home?

Absolutely. Lonsdale Quay Market functions as a full public market. The Lobster Man and other fishmongers sell fresh, live, and packaged seafood to take home. Butchers like Two Rivers offer meats, and several produce vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables. Livia Sweets and other bakeries sell whole loaves of bread and pastries. It's a legitimate grocery destination.

What is the price range for food at the market?

Prices range from affordable snacks to premium seafood. A pastry or sausage roll costs $5-$ 8. A quick lunch like pasta or a sushi plate ranges from $12-$ 18. Premium items like a full halibut fish and chips meal or a dozen fresh oysters will cost $20-$ 30. You can easily tailor your spending to your budget.

Are there healthy food options at Lonsdale Quay Market?

Yes. Several vendors offer healthy choices. You can get fresh sashimi (high in protein and omega-3s) at Sushi Lonsdale, build a salad from the produce vendors, or choose grilled seafood options. The market's focus on fresh, whole ingredients from local suppliers naturally lends itself to healthier meals compared to standard fast food.

References

[1] City of Vancouver, "Vancouver Food Strategy," 2023. The city's long-term plan for a healthy, sustainable food system. https://vancouver.ca/people-programs/vancouvers-food-strategy.aspx

[2] Eater Vancouver, "Restaurant Coverage," 2026. Food media coverage of Vancouver restaurant news, guides, and rankings. https://vancouver.eater.com/

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

[4] Georgia Straight, "Food and Drink," 2026. Independent coverage of Vancouver's food, drink, and restaurant scene since 1967. https://www.straight.com/food