Just up the Sea to Sky Highway is Squamish, the booming town that is a draw for outdoor enthusiasts and serves as a great place to pause on the road between Whistler and Vancouver.
The food scene in Squamish has been gaining traction in the last year or so, with a few notable debuts joining the ranks of some enduringly popular mainstays. There's always Fergie's for a killer breakfast, and Mag's 99 is a must-try for their irreverent approach to fried chicken and Mexican food.
If you're headed to Squamish soon, consider hitting up one of these five spots, if you're looking for something new--or something with an insane view.
Tall Tree Bakery
Inside Tall Tree Bakery (Lindsay William-Ross/Vancouver Is Awesome)
Although you can't sit down here, if your schedule permits a pastry or grabbing a loaf of bread to tuck into later, Tall Tree is a must-try. For something more substantial and meal-like, try one of their sandwiches, done on house-made baguettes.
Address: 404-1201 Commercial Way, Squamish
Backcountry Brewing
Backcountry Brewing (Lindsay William-Ross/Vancouver Is Awesome)
Opened earlier this year, Backcountry Brewing is a boon for lovers of craft beer. They make about five brews, and you can get pours in the main dining area, along with food like a selection of pizzas, salads, and small plates. PS: They're right next door to Tall Tree!
Address: 405-1201 Commercial Way, Squamish
Salted Vine
Charcuterie board at the Salted Vine (Lindsay William-Ross/Vancouver Is Awesome)
At the forefront of Squamish's food renaissance, Salted Vine is an homage to locally-sourced food prepared with panache. Industry vets run this more up-market option, turning out excellent cocktails, offering a stellar wine list, and serving up fresh and visually stunning seasonal eats--but without pretension.
Address: 37991 2 Avenue, Squamish
The Joinery
One of the new kids on the block, the Joinery is from the same folks behind the Locavore truck and the Cloudburst Cafe. This full-service restaurant is welcoming to families and groups, and the menu is designed for sharing (or not!), with plenty of options from bar bites to more robust entrees. Check out their drinks, too.
Address: 1861 Mamquam Road, Squamish
Summit Eatery at Sea to Sky Gondola
For one of the most spectacular vistas, head up the Sea to Sky Gondola and enjoy a panoramic look at Howe Sound. At the Summit Eatery you can crack open a beer and tuck into casual fare like burgers, salads, and sides, or enjoy special seasonal offerings like BBQ in the summer and fondue in the winter. It's up to you if you opt to eat before or after you walk across the suspension bridge.
Address: 2 kilometres south of Squamish, directly on the Sea to Sky Highway/Hwy 99.
