Bridges

Patio-side at Bridges is a panoramic bubble of heaven. Maintain your focus until seated or you’ll trip, mouth agape: the view is that good. With mountains galore, the Granville Island marina and picturesque kayakers paddling to and fro as if for your distinct viewing pleasure; this is heady scenery indeed.

Bridges is “the yellow restaurant,” so named because it’s tucked between Vancouver’s landmark Burrard and Granville Street bridges. Divided into three sections, the upstairs serves fancy, fishy fare for a more discerning palate. Is it good? I wouldn’t know: outside dining is the point and is only found at the restaurant’s dockside section. Enjoy fish and chips, burgers or pretentious ‘share plates’ delivered with a smile from a young, helpful and good-looking staff. A separate bar with smaller patio is a trusted back-up for rainy but atmospheric Vancouver days when you want to learn about Canadians and their hockey.

Given its prime Granville Island location, this is a favourite local hangout where tourists can jealously try on the Vancouver lifestyle before returning to their less spectacular home towns. Whether to soak up lunchtime rays, celebrate 5 o’clock with mammoth margaritas or watch your first life-changing Vancouver sunset, Bridges is the place.

“I have arrived,” you will tell yourself. “Ah, the good life!” you will respond.

As can be expected, Bridges is a popular tourist spot for those who find their way to Granville Island, and while the restaurant itself is quite nicely decorated, the real sight to behold is outside, as Bridges' patio can't be beat on a sunny day.

However, expect to pay for that view, as dishes tend to be on the slightly overpriced side of things. The food isn't bad by any means; in fact it's better than average (great fish and chips), but the prices make it clear that Bridges is smack dab in the middle of tourist town.

Great spot to catch a drink, a snack, and get down to some serious lounging with a beautiful waterfront view, but for the price, you may be better off exploring a little more.