Dairy-Free British Columbia: Best Restaurants & Shops in BC

Last Update in March 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in British Columbia that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a provincial collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state.

We Update Continuously! You can ignore the original date on this post going forward. We update the information below whenever we’re alerted to a new recommendation, change, or closure.

Photo from The Pie Hole in Burnaby and Vancouver, British Columbia

Dairy-Free British Columbia: Recommended Restaurants & Shops

We’ve listed these recommendations for the province of British Columbia alphabetically by city and then by the restaurant or shop name. For large chains with locations throughout the state, see the Major Restaurant & Grocery Chains section below. We have dedicated posts with dairy-free details for many of the big guys.

⭐️ = Restaurant is either dairy-free, has a dairy-free menu, has dairy-free labels on their menu(s), or lists top allergens with menu items. (At the time of our last review.)

Abbotsford

BRGR BRGR – This fun burger spot offers vegan cheese (and a vegan burger) and various dairy-free sauces, to make custom orders more interesting. They are also friendly to allergy orders, and have many gluten-free options on the menu.
Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Sprouted Oven ⭐️ – Silver Hills Bakery has their own retail bake shop, too! They serve a fully vegan menu with pizzas, bagels, and sandwiches. They also bake a big array of breads and pastries, with many gluten-free options. And they bake custom order, organic, whole grain cakes, with gluten-free available.
The Habit Project – At last check, their entire menu was dairy-free, including juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls, savory bowls, and healthy snacks. Most of their menu is also gluten-free and vegan.
The Polly Fox ⭐️ – This bistro and bakery is free from gluten, peanuts, and sesame. Most of their items are also dairy-free, and they have many vegan and some keto options. Their bakery menu includes various breads and pastries, and they have a lunch menu with sandwiches and a weekend brunch menu. They also serve hot and iced beverages, with dairy-free options for all.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Burnaby

Basil Box ⭐️ – This is a build-your-own Asian-style bowl chain that clearly labels each component for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. At last check, their entire menu appeared to be gluten-free, and almost everything was dairy-free.
Chronic Tacos – See our Chronic Tacos Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Glenburn Soda Fountain & Confectionery – They offer at least one dairy-free ice cream flavor daily, and when we looked, they had dairy-free vanilla, chocolate, and two sorbet flavors. You can order it in a cup or cone, in a float, or as a sundae – they offer some dairy-free sauces and topping options.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
JJ Bean Coffee Roasters – This coffee shop and bakehouse is heavily located in Vancouver with a few locations in neighboring cities. They Their food menu includes quick sweet and savory bites, with many dairy-free and vegan options available (and usually a gluten-free item or two). They usually have some muffins, vegan burritos, coconut yogurt parfaits, and other goodies to choose from. For their coffee and tea drinks, they have almond, soy, and oat milk available at most locations.
Nam Vegan Express ⭐️ – This is a vegan Vietnamese restaurant, serving all the classics, but without any meat or seafood.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Stuffies Pastries – They swirl vegan, soy-based vanilla and matcha soft serve into fish-shaped (taiyaki) gluten-free, vegan waffle cones, which you can garnish with a range of toppings. They offer some vegan and gluten-free savory lunch items, too.
The Juice Truck ⭐️ – Despite the mobile name, this juice shop is parked at a few store locations throughout Vancouver. Beyond cold-pressed juices, they blend dairy-free smoothies, and serve a small menu of casual plant-based food.
The Pie Hole – They bake a big range of pies from scratch, including vegan pies. Some of their vegan options can include chocolate hazelnut cream pie, apple pie, blueberry pie, and savory pies.

Chilliwack

Cultivate Cafe – Their brunch and lunch menus include vegan menu items, like hash, tacos, and sandwiches. Plus, some additional items can be ordered dairy-free.
Old Yale Brewing & Campfire Kitchen – Their menu includes a couple vegan options, like cauliflower tacos and edamame. And a couple other dinners can be ordered dairy-free.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Red Swan Pizza – They offer vegan cheese, which you can order on their traditional, thin, or regular gluten-free crust. Their classic pizza sauce, a few other sauces, and their veggie toppings are dairy-free. They offer a plethora of protein options, so be sure to reference their allergen guide carefully. They also have dry ribs, chicken bites, wings, and potato wedges available without dairy.
SaraBella’s Gluten Free Café – This is a gluten-free, nut-free bakery and cafe that offers several dairy-free and vegan baked goodies, breakfast items (like waffles with coconut whip), and lunch options (sandwiches and salads).

Comox

Land & Sea Brewing – They label their menu for dairy-free and gluten-free guests. They serve dairy-free snacks and shareables, like chicken wings, along with a couple salad and bowl options. At last check, all dairy-free items could also be ordered dairy free.

Coquitlam

Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.

Cranbrook

Nutters Everyday Naturals – This is a Canadian natural food store chain that carries a good selection of dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet foods.

Delta

Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Fort St John

Pizza 73 – They offer dairy-free cheeze and plant-based “meats” for their pizzas, and have a detailed ingredient list for each pizza component and menu item. A couple of their classic and traditional pizza doughs are made without dairy, but do have “may contain” warnings for potential cross-contamination. They also offer three gluten-free and dairy-free crust options. Some additional items like wings, fries and onion rings can be ordered without dairy.

Kamloops

Red Swan Pizza – They offer vegan cheese, which you can order on their traditional, thin, or regular gluten-free crust. Their classic pizza sauce, a few other sauces, and their veggie toppings are dairy-free. They offer a plethora of protein options, so be sure to reference their allergen guide carefully. They also have dry ribs, chicken bites, wings, and potato wedges available without dairy.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Kelowna

Beavertails – These artisanal Canadian pastries are made with whole wheat flour, hand-stretched, and fried. They can be ordered dairy-free and vegan on request.
Big Fat Lion Bakeshop ⭐️ – Their baked goodies are free of the top 10 allergens, vegan, and made without artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. They have local delivery and sell at local farmers markets. Their selection includes all types of pastries, like various Nanaimo bars, cupcakes, brownies, and truffles.
Bright Jenny Coffee – They offer oat and soymilk for lattes, and typically have several vegan pastries available.
Chickpeace Zero Waste Refillery – This pantry stocking spot has some dairy-free surprises, like vegan hot chocolate mix, chocolate chips, popcorn topper, and local goodies.
Crumbs and Roses Bakery – This is a gluten-free bakery with dairy-free breads, buns, mini donuts, and some other goodies.
Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
Fork Plant Based Market ⭐️ – This vegan eatery is part market, part cafe, with some great pantry stocking products, plus hot sandwiches, perogies, and baked goods.
MELTwich – This grilled cheese chain has a full plant-based menu. It includes a few vegan melts, the Impossible burger, and a couple poutines. Additional menu items can be custom ordered dairy-free, including burgers, bowls, and additional toppings on vegan grilled cheeses and poutines.
Morrgen’s All-Gluten Free – This prolific baker offers online sales and pick-up, and sells at local farmer’s markets. Her menu includes dairy-free brownies, various vegan dessert bars (including Nanaimo bars), vegan cookies, and vegan pies.
Pizza Studio – Like many places in New Brunswick, they use “lactose-free” instead of “dairy-free,” which is confusing. But they do offer a vegan, dairy-free cheese alternative, and have a range of sauces, toppings, and crusts to choose from. Ask in store for allergy information.
Red Swan Pizza – They offer vegan cheese, which you can order on their traditional, thin, or regular gluten-free crust. Their classic pizza sauce, a few other sauces, and their veggie toppings are dairy-free. They offer a plethora of protein options, so be sure to reference their allergen guide carefully. They also have dry ribs, chicken bites, wings, and potato wedges available without dairy.
Rustic Reel Brewing Company – Their menu is labeled for lactose-free, not dairy-free, but several of those dishes can be ordered dairy-free. They also offer vegan nachos, and many gluten-free choices.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Langley

Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.

New Westminster

Chronic Tacos – See our Chronic Tacos Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

North Vancouver

Beavertails – These artisanal Canadian pastries are made with whole wheat flour, hand-stretched, and fried. They can be ordered dairy-free and vegan on request.
Buddha-full ⭐️ – This vegan cafe serves smoothies, savory bowls, and other warm plates, and also has a case of baked goodies.
Earnest Ice Cream – They scoop several vegan flavours daily, with options like peanut butter chocolate pretzel, mint cookies and cream, and strawberry rhubarb ripple.
Jamjar Canteen ⭐️ – This Lebanese restaurant has a prolific vegan menu, with many additional dairy-free items available. You’ll find great options for wraps, lunch bowls, platters, hot and cold mezze, salads, and even dessert.
JJ Bean Coffee Roasters – This coffee shop and bakehouse is heavily located in Vancouver with a few locations in neighboring cities. They Their food menu includes quick sweet and savory bites, with many dairy-free and vegan options available (and usually a gluten-free item or two). They usually have some muffins, vegan burritos, coconut yogurt parfaits, and other goodies to choose from. For their coffee and tea drinks, they have almond, soy, and oat milk available at most locations.
Mount Royal Bagel Factory – Thank you to Maureen for recommending this bagelry, “My anaphylaxis to dairy daughter has been eating the bagels for over 10 years. it was her first bakery! According to the bakery, they hand-make Montreal style bagels from-scratch daily in their BC Kosher certified facility. They do serve dairy cream cheese, but offer almond butter as an option.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Sprightly Plant Power ⭐️ – Formerly known as Tao Organics, this vegan shop offers pantry goods, ready-to-eat meals, snacks, raw desserts, and more.
Stuffies Pastries – They swirl vegan, soy-based vanilla and matcha soft serve into fish-shaped (taiyaki) gluten-free, vegan waffle cones, which you can garnish with a range of toppings. They offer some vegan and gluten-free savory lunch items, too.
The Green Moustache ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, gluten-free friendly cafe that serves purely organic food. Their menu includes breakfast, hot bowls, salads, wraps, juices, and smoothies. They also make desserts in-house, which are sweetened purely with dates or maple syrup.
Two Daughters Bakeshop ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free, vegan bakery that makes various pastries and custom order cakes. Their retail shop is closed, but they still offer pre-order and pick up.
Welcome Parlour Ice Cream – They typically have a vegan flavour on rotation, like dairy-free lime coconut, chocolate orange, mint chocolate flake, or mango pineapple. They typically use a coconut cream base for the dairy-free flavours.

Pit Meadows

Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Port Coquitlam

Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
St. Louis Bar & Grill – Enjoy custom order salads and bar bites, including their famous wings with a large selection of sauces. Their allergen menu is well detailed and helpful for custom ordering.

Port Moody

JJ Bean Coffee Roasters – This coffee shop and bakehouse is heavily located in Vancouver with a few locations in neighboring cities. They Their food menu includes quick sweet and savory bites, with many dairy-free and vegan options available (and usually a gluten-free item or two). They usually have some muffins, vegan burritos, coconut yogurt parfaits, and other goodies to choose from. For their coffee and tea drinks, they have almond, soy, and oat milk available at most locations.
The Green Moustache ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, gluten-free friendly cafe that serves purely organic food. Their menu includes breakfast, hot bowls, salads, wraps, juices, and smoothies. They also make desserts in-house, which are sweetened purely with dates or maple syrup.

Prince George

Pizza 73 – They offer dairy-free cheeze and plant-based “meats” for their pizzas, and have a detailed ingredient list for each pizza component and menu item. A couple of their classic and traditional pizza doughs are made without dairy, but do have “may contain” warnings for potential cross-contamination. They also offer three gluten-free and dairy-free crust options. Some additional items like wings, fries and onion rings can be ordered without dairy.

Richmond

Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
The Juice Truck ⭐️ – Despite the mobile name, this juice shop is parked at a few store locations throughout Vancouver. Beyond cold-pressed juices, they blend dairy-free smoothies, and serve a small menu of casual plant-based food.

Salmon Arm

Nutters Everyday Naturals – This is a Canadian natural food store chain that carries a good selection of dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet foods.

Sidney

Fresh Tandoori Flavour ⭐️ – This Indian restaurant clearly labels dairy-free and gluten-free items on their menu. Their very big menu is littered with several dairy-free options throughout the categories – ranging from vegetarian to seafood to beef and lamb.

Squamish

Howe Sound Inn & Brewing – They offer a vegan salad and vegan burger buns, so you can order a few of their burgers and sandwiches without dairy. A couple other menu items are dairy free – ask the staff on options.
Solfeggio ⭐️ – They make raw, vegan treats, including pies, tortes, Nanaimo bars, and other single serve goodies. They primarily sell wholesale to other shops and restaurants, but you can order online and pick up at their facility.
The Green Moustache ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, gluten-free friendly cafe that serves purely organic food. Their menu includes breakfast, hot bowls, salads, wraps, juices, and smoothies. They also make desserts in-house, which are sweetened purely with dates or maple syrup.
XMarket ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, sustainably-focused deli and bodega, offering a range of household supplies, frozen foods, pantry staples, snacks, and an extensive selection of organic beer and wine. At the deli counter, you can get made-to-order sandwiches, or get one of their freshly prepared grab-and-go items.

Surrey

Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
MELTwich – This grilled cheese chain has a full plant-based menu. It includes a few vegan melts, the Impossible burger, and a couple poutines. Additional menu items can be custom ordered dairy-free, including burgers, bowls, and additional toppings on vegan grilled cheeses and poutines.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pizza Twist – They have an extensive vegan pizza menu with dairy-free cheese, all types of sauces, and a plethora of dairy-free toppings. Almost any pizza on their menu can be ordered without dairy.
Stuffies Pastries – They swirl vegan, soy-based vanilla and matcha soft serve into fish-shaped (taiyaki) gluten-free, vegan waffle cones, which you can garnish with a range of toppings. They offer some vegan and gluten-free savory lunch items, too.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Vancouver

Aleph Eatery ⭐️ – This Mediterranean restaurant serves petite, all-vegan menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner daily.
Amato Gelato Cafe – They have been churning dairy-free chocolate Tofulati since 1983! They also scoop vegan sorbettos.
Aphrodite’s Organic Pie Shop – Their pie menu includes dairy-free key lime pie, plus vegan pumpkin pie, chocolate pecan pie, and chocolate cream pie. You can also custom order dairy-free, gluten-free fruit pies. They also have a cafe on site, where they serve breakfast and lunch with some vegan and dairy-free options.
Bad Apple Vegan Restaurant & Bar ⭐️ – Their all-vegan menu has a lengthy selection of appetizers, fries, burgers, sandwiches, and more.
Bandidas Taqueria – Almost everything at this vegetarian Mexican restaurant can be ordered dairy-free and/or vegan. They serve brunch and a broad selection of Mexican and Southern favorites.
Basil Box ⭐️ – This is a build-your-own Asian-style bowl chain that clearly labels each component for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. At last check, their entire menu appeared to be gluten-free, and almost everything was dairy-free.
Beavertails – These artisanal Canadian pastries are made with whole wheat flour, hand-stretched, and fried. They can be ordered dairy-free and vegan on request.
Beta5 Chocolates – They typically have a hand-crafted vegan chocolate bar flavor or two at their shop.
Blue Heron ⭐️ – This creamery was the first all-vegan cheese shop in British Columbia. They use cashews, almonds, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, and coconut milk to make their varied selection of cheeses – from burrata to blue to mozzarella. They also make and sell their own dairy-free butters, yogurt, and preserves.
Bonus Bakery ⭐️ – This vegan bakery specializes in cookies with unique toppings, and even cookie layer cakes. They also bake cinnamon rolls.
Cartems Donuts – It’s a best-kept secret that Cartems’ yeast and cake donut doughs are vegan! Not all of their icings and toppings are dairy-free, but most are. Their vegan donuts are carefully labeled, and they offer vegan, gluten-free donuts daily at each of their three locations. To go with your donut, Cartem’s Donuterie also has a big beverage selection. It includes hot and iced espresso drinks, chai lattes, and hot chocolate with an option for dairy-free almond milk.
Caveman Café – Their focus is more on keto, than paleo, which means they do use dairy in many dishes. But they have a whole range of paleo menu items and even vegan options. Everything is gluten-free, and you can order dairy-free pizzas, burgers, burritos, and salads. They offer both Daiya cheese and a house-made vegan tahini cheese alternative. They also run their own keto bakery, with a few paleo and dairy-free treats.
Chau Veggie Express ⭐️ – This casual Vietnamese restaurant is vegan. They have a full menu of classic soups, bowls, and rolls, and also make their own dairy-free ice cream in flavours like Vietnamese coffee, Thai milk tea, and peanut butter dark chocolate.
Chickpea Restaurant ⭐️ – Their menu is vegan, and mostly gluten-free, and boasts many Mediterranean-inspired dishes. They serve tapas, all-day breakfast, and desserts.
Chi Vegan ⭐️ – Their all-vegan menu heads east for inspiration, with perogies, Indian curries, bibimbap, banh mi, and many more flavorful dishes.
Chronic Tacos – See our Chronic Tacos Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
delhi6 Indian Bistro – They label “no dairy” items on their menu, which include a good handful of meaty main dishes, and at least one vegan option.
Do Chay ⭐️ – Thank you to Sam for recommending this vegan Vietnamese restaurant. Their modern menu focuses on street food, rice plates, and noodle bowls, and they have a full bar. They also have two happy hours for drinks.
Earnest Ice Cream – They scoop several vegan flavours daily, with options like peanut butter chocolate pretzel, mint cookies and cream, and strawberry rhubarb ripple.
East is East ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for items that contain dairy, gluten-free choices, and vegan or vegan optional dishes. Much of their menu is dairy-free or can be made dairy-free, and it’s littered with vegan option. Their cuisine is inspired by the silk and spice roads.
East West Market – This is recommended as a great market for local produce and finding dairy-free International items.
Edible Flours Vegan Bakery ⭐️ – This sweet shop specializes in pretty cakes and cupcakes, including custom made delights. But they also have a store full of cookies, cinnamon rolls, and other sweet delights, along with daily gluten-free options, and even keto-friendly treats.
Elephant Garden Creamery – This small artisanal ice cream maker offers vegan mango coconut sticky rice as a regular flavour, and vegan salted gula melaka on rotation.
Eternal Abundance Organic Market & Eatery ⭐️ – This is a purely vegan and organic grocery store and cafe, that also sources locally as much as possible. Their menu includes both cooked and raw dishes, and their store is rich in healthy, plant-based foods and products.
European Breads Bakery – At last check, all of their European-style breads were dairy-free. They also reportedly bake some gluten-free breads in a designated space.
Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
Festal Paleo Cafe ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and paleo, which is pretty much everything. They serve pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches, and comfort food, like lasagna (with cashew cheese) and burgers. Many of their dishes are keto, too. They also have a smoothie and coffee bar, and offer meal prep.
Gobble ⭐️ – This is a “100%” dairy-free and gluten-free restaurant that serves signature bowls and build your own bowls with a selection of bases, proteins, and sauces. They have a few vegan protein and sauce options, too.
Grano Pizzeria ⭐️ – This all-vegan restaurant offers a gourmet selection of pies, topped with cashew mozzarella, bechamel, and other quality toppings. They also offer Italian desserts, like cannoli and tiramisu.
Havana Vancouver – They have a handful of vegan items on the menu, including grilled avocado tacos with cashew queso, vegan gluten-free veggie burgers, Spanish rice, tostones, fries with bravas sauce, and a Cuban-style beach bowl. A couple more items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Heirloom – This vegetarian restaurant serves brunch, lunch, dinner, happy hour, and fancy cocktails with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. A good portion of their menu is vegan, and most menu items can be made dairy-free with a vegan cheese swap. They do offer eggs, and gluten-free options are clearly labeled.
Indian Delicacy – They have a vegan section on their menu, but also offer many additional dairy-free and gluten-free dishes, and are reportedly friendly to special diet needs.
Innocent Ice Cream Sandwiches – This ice cream shop uses vegan cookies and house dairy-free ice cream flavours (which you can also order by the pint) to make several vegan ice cream sandwich flavours. You can also order a custom vegan ice cream cookie cake from them.
Jamjar Canteen ⭐️ – This Lebanese restaurant has a prolific vegan menu, with many additional dairy-free items available. You’ll find great options for wraps, lunch bowls, platters, hot and cold mezze, salads, and even dessert.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
JJ Bean Coffee Roasters – This coffee shop and bakehouse has locations dotted around the city. They Their food menu includes quick sweet and savory bites, with many dairy-free and vegan options available (and usually a gluten-free item or two). They usually have some muffins, vegan burritos, coconut yogurt parfaits, and other goodies to choose from. For their coffee and tea drinks, they have almond, soy, and oat milk available at most locations.
Kind Cafe + Eatery ⭐️ – Their healthy all-vegan menu includes lattes, smoothies, bagels, wraps, sandwiches, flatbreads, and more. They also have a happy hour with snacks, shareables, flatbreads, and local beers, ciders, and kombucha. Gluten-free food options are available.
Lemonade Gluten Free Bakery ⭐️ – Their dairy-free selection includes all of their breads, and some cupcake flavours, cakes, tarts, muffins, and cookies.
Level V Bakery ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery that bakes custom cake orders and has an array of pastries, including macarons, cookies, croissants, mochi muffins, cream puffs, and more. They also have gluten-free options. They share space with Whisk Matcha Cafe.
Lotus Seed Vegan ⭐️ – Their menu is a casual mix of Asian and American dishes. They also have gluten-free options.
MeeT on Main ⭐️ – Everything at this friendly restaurant is vegan, from the poutine to the cronuts. They focus on Canadian comfort food with a big menu of burgers, bowls, desserts, and more.
MILA ⭐️ – They serve “elevated” vegan cuisine in a casual setting. Their menu includes Asian, Mexican, and American dishes.
Miku – This fine dining restaurant is a popular spot for sushi and seafood, and they’ve been recommended by a few dairy-free guests for attentiveness to special diet guests. Not everything on their menu is dairy-free, but the staff is said to be aware of ingredients and options. They also clearly label gluten-free options.
Mister Artisan Ice Cream – This liquid nitrogen ice cream shop offers vegan chocolate and vegan oat milk ice cream as options. They also have vegan chocolate ice cream sandwiches.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Neverland Tea Salon – You can enjoy high tea with their gluten-free and dairy-free and vegan menus. They include savory sandwiches and cakes for dessert.
Nuba in Gastown – This local Lebanese chain offers a range of dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan dishes. They also have a juice bar, vegan desserts (like baklava and panna cotta), and offer meal kits.
Passione Gelato – They house-make several creamy vegan gelato flavors, like coconut, chocolate, pistachio, and mango.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Rain or Shine – This local ice creamery offers vegan coconut chocolate chunk on their regular scoop menu, and they offer a seasonal vegan flavour or two. Plus, they have sundaes with vegan chocolate sauce available.
Rosemary Rocksalt – This unique bagel shop offers some vegan bagels and dairy-free cashew cream cheese alternative.
Sabra Kosher Bakery & Restaurant ⭐️ – This is a kosher glatt restaurant, so everything is dairy-free and they also have many gluten-free options.
Say Hello Sweets ⭐️ – This plant-based ice creamery uses coconut milk and house-made cashew milk to craft their flavours. They also make milkshakes, coffee drinks, custom order ice cream cakes, and other goodies.
Solly’s Bagelry – At last check, all of their bagels were dairy-free, and they also served vegan knishes.
Sula ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free and gluten-free guests, and they have a mighty little vegan menu. Aside from the vegan options, they have several dairy-free meat and seafood curries. And they do have a vegan kheer / rice pudding for dessert.
Sunshine Coast Convenience Store – This shop is actually located in Kitsilano, not up the Sunshine Coast, and they carry far more interesting food than your average convenience store. This includes a remarkable selection of dairy-free ice cream pints.
Tayybeh ⭐️ – They make fresh and frozen Syrian meals, which you can order and pick up. Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan customers, and they always have a good selection for everyone.
Terra Breads – They bake several dairy-free breads and granolas. At their cafe locations, you can also get dairy-free sandwiches and vegan bowls.
The Cider House ⭐️ – Enjoy a fully vegan menu of shareables, salads, bowls, and handhelds with your cider flight, bottle, or draft.
The Dirty Apron – This is a cooking school with a deli that’s open to the public, and we’re happy to see they are teaching them about special diets! Their menu changes daily, based on the classes, but they label each menu item for dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free needs, and there always seems to be some options for everyone.
The Gluten Free Epicurean – Their dairy-free selection includes breads and a big range of pastries, like donuts, muffins, coffee cakes, rice crispy squares, and more. They also have dairy-free quiches, smoothies, and many vegan items.
The Juice Truck ⭐️ – Despite the mobile name, this juice shop is parked at a few store locations throughout Vancouver. Beyond cold-pressed juices, they blend dairy-free smoothies, and serve a small menu of casual plant-based food.
The Naam – Vancouver’s oldest vegetarian restaurant just keeps on cooking. They do serve eggs and dairy, but have many vegan options, including buckwheat crepes, tofu scrambles, croissants, and Daiya cheese as an option for their broad breakfast and lunch menus.
The Pie Hole – They bake a big range of pies from scratch, including vegan pies. Some of their vegan options can include chocolate hazelnut cream pie, apple pie, blueberry pie, and savory pies.
The Pizza Castle and Indian Curry ⭐️ – This is a vegan establishment. They cook their plant-based pizzas in “deck oven,” and offer a broad menu of other dishes, including burgers, Indian food, and more.
The Praguery – They run food trucks that serve vegan chimney cakes, which double as ice cream cones. They serve dairy ice cream, but also offer vegan soft serve and mango dairy-free pints.
Torn ⭐️ – Their French-inspired, all-vegan menu includes baguette sandwiches, light Mediterranean bites, and usually a couple desserts.
Vegan Cave Cafe ⭐️ – They make their own nut cheeses at this vegan pizzeria, and also serve pastas, salads, bowls, and wraps. And this is a special diet friendly establishment. They cater to gluten-free, grain-free, keto, paleo, and other needs.
Vegan Pizza House ⭐️ – The name doesn’t quite say it all. In addition to pizza, they offer a range of Mediterranean dishes, including lasagnas, spaghetti, donair, souvlakis, and more. They also have desserts. Please note that they do have mixed reviews, due to the vegan cheese they use.
Vegan Supply – Head to Chinatown to visit this vegan shop. They carry a big, unique range of dairy-free foods from the U.S., Canada, and U.K.
Virtuous Pie ⭐️- Everything at this modern pizzeria is dairy-free and vegan. The rich nut based cheeses and crusts are made in house, and they source ingredients locally. They do offer a gluten-free crust, too. For dessert, they specialize in handcrafted plant-based ice cream! Their creative dairy-free flavours are available by the scoop in a cup, waffle cone, or gluten-free waffle cone. They have two locations in Vancouver, one near UBC and one in Chinatown.
Vogue Cakes ⭐️ – This is a wholesale vegan bakery that sells to retailers in the lower mainland. So you might spot their cakes in stores and restaurants. But they also bake custom order cakes, like wedding cakes, and you can order several of their baked goods directly.
Whisk Matcha Cafe ⭐️ – This vegan tea and coffee shop makes drinks with a wide array of dairy-free milk beverages, serves light eats, offers pastries from their in-house bake shop, Level V, and swirls oat milk-based soft serve ice cream.
Wild Trails Coffee ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this local coffee shop, including the lattes, smoothies, pastries, paninis, and other savory bites.
Yaletown Brewing Co – They have a good handful of vegan options, including some adaptable menu items, and a couple more dairy-free choices.
Yasma ⭐️ – This Lebanese restaurant practically features their special diet labels. They have a good selection of dairy-free cold and hot mezzez, salads, and grilled items, with several gluten-free and/or vegan choices.

Victoria

Beavertails – These artisanal Canadian pastries are made with whole wheat flour, hand-stretched, and fried. They can be ordered dairy-free and vegan on request.
Be Love – Fresh food, juices, and smoothies are the specialty at this family run, plant-based establishment. All of their food is dairy-free, gluten-free, processed sugar-free, and they source almost completely organic ingredients.
Cavalier Cakes ⭐️ – Theresa, the owner, emailed in to let us know about their completely dairy-free bakery. “Theresa and Keith, the owners, are both allergic to dairy so they started Cavalier Cakes to cater to clients, with allergy concerns, who cannot buy from regular bakeries for risk of cross-contamination.” They are a private, by appointment and order only bakery (with classes and workshops!) that specializes in allergy concerns, such as gluten, dairy, and nuts. They also cater to vegan and parve needs. Every order is created from scratch.
Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan cinnamon roll bakery. See our Cinnaholic Post for more details.
Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
Fern Cafe and Bakery ⭐️ – Their comfort food menu and bakery selection is completely vegan. They serve burgers, poutine, mac and cheese, brunch favorites, and more. They also label which items contain gluten and/or soy.
Fresh Tandoori Flavour ⭐️ – This Indian restaurant clearly labels dairy-free and gluten-free items on their menu. Their very big menu is littered with several dairy-free options throughout the categories – ranging from vegetarian to seafood to beef and lamb.
Frickin’ Delights Donuts ⭐️ – This is a vegan donut shop. All of their from-scratch donuts and in-house food items are dairy-free and vegan. Their coffee bar is dairy-free, but they offer dairy milk on request.
Green Cuisine Vegetarian Restaurant ⭐️ – Changing times have morphed this buffet-style restaurant into a classic vegan restaurant with takeout, delivery, and an expansive menu. They offer pizzas, burgers, salads, juices, smoothies – you name it! They also have a full vegan and gluten-free bakery and dairy-free gelato to enjoy your desserts a la mode.
Leopold’s Tavern – They have a plant-based section on their menu, which includes onion rings, poutine, burgers, nachos, and quesadillas. Some additional items on their menu can be ordered without dairy.
Rawthentic Eatery – Raw foodists will love this vegan, gluten-free cafe. They serve juices, smoothies, and healthy shakes, along with a full menu of savory eats.
Saveur Restaurant – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests, and the dairy-free options include a selection of small plates and appetizers. However, their menu does change seasonally.
Very Good Butchers ⭐️ – What began as a market stall on Denman Island has now grown into BC’s first plant-based and vegan butcher, complete with restaurant and deli. They create a variety of plant-based meat alternatives from a base of beans, vegetables, barley, and wheat gluten, and everything is soy-free! Their hot food menu includes a bit range of burgers and sandwiches, but they also serve brunch and offer local dairy-free cheeses.
Virtuous Pie ⭐️- Everything at this modern pizzeria is dairy-free and vegan. The rich nut based cheeses and crusts are made in house, and they source ingredients locally. They do offer a gluten-free crust, too. For dessert, they specialize in handcrafted plant-based ice cream! Their creative dairy-free flavours are available by the scoop in a cup, waffle cone, or gluten-free waffle cone. They have one location in Victoria.

Westbank

Red Swan Pizza – They offer vegan cheese, which you can order on their traditional, thin, or regular gluten-free crust. Their classic pizza sauce, a few other sauces, and their veggie toppings are dairy-free. They offer a plethora of protein options, so be sure to reference their allergen guide carefully. They also have dry ribs, chicken bites, wings, and potato wedges available without dairy.

West Vancouver

CherryBerry Frozen Yogurt Bar – The flavours rotate at this Midwestern chain, but at any given time, you can usually find at least a few dairy-free flavours. They offer creamy vegan Silk almondmilk frozen yogurt in Chocolate and Vanilla. And they swirl numerous dairy-free sorbets, including Chocolate Fudge and a variety of fruity flavours. The staff has ingredient information, and can open new topping bags if cross-contamination is a concern.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Organic Luv Nutrition Bar – This juice and smoothie spot has a huge menu of healthy flavors. They also have a coffee bar with lattes. Much of their menu is dairy-free, but they do have a couple dairy ingredient options on their menu.
The Anchor Eatery – Smoothies, smoothie bowls, acai bowls, and poke bowls provide many dairy-free (and even vegan) options at this local restaurant. Some additional eats can also be ordered without dairy.

Whistler

21 Steps Kitchen + Bar – They have a good selection of vegan small plates and big plates, including a roasted cauliflower “alfredo” with cashew cream sauce. Simple meat and seafood can also be ordered without dairy. And they offer a couple vegan, gluten-free desserts, including a chocolate torte.
Blenz Coffee – Their lattes can be made with oat, almond, coconut, or soymilk, they have a vegan dark hot chocolate available, and they offer Solfeggio raw vegan treats, made locally.
Braidwood Tavern – They offer an impressive vegan menu, with starters, shareables, an eclectic mix of casual mains, and even dessert. A couple additional items can be ordered without dairy.
BReD ⭐️ – This vegan bakery specializes in sourdough bread and pizza dough, but they also bake cinnamon rolls, focaccia, cookies, cakes, and a few other items.
Cranked Espresso Bar – Their baked goods menu includes some vegan treats, like cookies, gluten-free brownies, sweet bread, and energy balls. And they have a couple additional dairy-free sweet breads available. They also have dairy-free and vegan sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies.
Creekbread – This gourmet flatbread pizza chain is owned by Flatbread Company in the U.S. and has a similar menu. Unlike their U.S. counterpart, they don’t currently offer dairy-free cheese, but they have a cheese-less vegan pizza on the menu and can make many of their pizzas dairy free without cheese. We’ve been told that their regular house dough and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They also have build-your-own salad options.
Fat Tony’s Pizza – They offer Daiya dairy-free cheese, and can make most pizzas dairy-free since all of their bases are vegan. They also have a gluten-free crust available.
La Cantina – This Mexican spot has a build-your-own taco, burrito, wrap, or bowl model, and they label their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan items. The dairy-free options include pork, beef, and veggie fillings.
MELTwich – This grilled cheese chain has a full plant-based menu. It includes a few vegan melts, the Impossible burger, and a couple poutines. Additional menu items can be custom ordered dairy-free, including burgers, bowls, and additional toppings on vegan grilled cheeses and poutines.
Rising Knead Bakery – This local farmer’s market mainstay bakes a variety of dairy-free and vegan breads. They specialize in sourdough, and also make sourdough pizza dough.
The Green Moustache ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, gluten-free friendly cafe that serves purely organic food. Their menu includes breakfast, hot bowls, salads, wraps, juices, and smoothies. They also make desserts in-house, which are sweetened purely with dates or maple syrup.

Photo from Grano Pizzeria in Vancouver, British Columbia

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout British Columbia

Some recommended restaurant and store chains are getting too big for our city listing britches. They have many locations, or are rapidly growing, and you might stumble across them in a number of towns in British Columbia Click on them for more dairy-free details.

Freshii – This chain serves bowls, salads, wraps, and smoothies. They offer a detailed allergen menu, and each menu category has at least one or two dairy-free options, ordered as is. But most items can be ordered without dairy easily, since all of their bases, proteins, broths, and toppings (aside from cheese) are made without milk (at the time of our review). Just verify the sauces, as a few contain milk-based ingredients.
Jugo Juice – This Canadian chain blends smoothie with almond milk or coconut water. Just be sure to skip the protein – they use whey. They also serve some wraps and salads that can be ordered dairy free.
Noodlebox – This fast casual Asian chain serves bowls with various sauces and add-ins. Most of their bowl options can be ordered dairy-free, and many can be vegan.
Panago Pizza – See our Panago Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Quesada – They offer a great allergen and special diet filter online to help plan your order. This is a build-your-own burrito, burrito bowl, or taco spot. At last check, their meats and meat alternatives were dairy free (the fish items contain dairy), as were both types of beans, rice, and all toppings, except cheese and sour cream. All of their salsas, guacamole, and most of their sauces are also dairy-free, and they even have a special vegan sauce.
The Chopped Leaf – They offer a big menu of hand-crafted salads, grain bowls, wraps, sandwiches, soups, and more. They clearly indicate allergens, and even indicate dairy-free options. They have a good selection for dairy-free, gluten-free, and even vegan guests, plus build your own choices.
Vegano Foods – This is a vegan meal kit and grocery delivery company that services most of the lower mainland, from Abbotsford and White Rock in the south, up to Whistler in the north, and including Vancouver Island.

Photo from Gobble in Vancouver, British Columbia

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in British Columbia

These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are in British Columbia. So you have a good chance of finding their products at grocery stores, restaurants, and/or other shops in this state. Keep an eye out!

Daiya Foods – This province is home to this prolific dairy alternative company. Oddly, you will find a bigger range of their products in the U.S., but their brand is still commonplace in B.C.
Earth’s Own Food Co. – They produce So Fresh, So Good and So Nice brands of milk alternatives, which are sold throughout Canada.
Nora’s – This dairy-free, vegan ice cream pint company sells their classic flavours in stores throughout B.C. They use a cashew and coconut milk base.
Nuez – They package several varieties of fresh-frozen, cold-pressed, nut milk concentrates.
Silver Hills Bakery – Their dairy-free bakery makes various sprouted bread products. They also run Little Northern Bakehouse, which makes gluten-free, dairy-free bread.
Spread ‘Em Kitchen – They make hard and soft dairy-free cheese alternatives with a cashew base.
Wholly Veggie – They produce vegan, allergy-friendly frozen foods, including pizzas with a cauliflower crust.
Yoggu – They make dairy-free yogurt with coconut cream and live active cultures.

Photo from Level V Bakery in Vancouver, British Columbia

This Guide is Continuously Updated with Recommendations

We welcome you to recommend other dairy-free friendly restaurants. Leave a comment or contact us and tell us why you like a certain restaurant. Restaurant owners and employees are also invited to reach out and let us know how you welcome dairy-free customers.

Please kindly let us know in the comments if any of these restaurants close. We want to keep this list current for you, but aren’t always notified when a restaurant closes. Let us know and we will quickly update!

This Guide is for Informational Purposes Only

Menus, ingredients, kitchen procedures, management, and restaurants are subject to change at any time. Always read the menu and discuss your dietary needs with the staff before ordering. Make sure that they can accommodate your situation.

There is always a risk for potential cross-contamination of allergens in any commercial kitchen. If cross-contamination is an issue for you, always speak with the manager to ensure that your meal can be safely prepared. Listings here do not guarantee that a restaurant is safe enough for your individual needs. Only you can make that decision.

British Columbia: Your Natural Resource for Dairy-Free Eats in BC