Global Gourmet
Eating around the world in Surrey, BC
Surrey’s ethnic food scene is bursting with flavour and diversity. In fact, it’s entirely possible to ‘eat around the world’ without ever leaving the region!
Surrey is undergoing an exciting metamorphosis and it’s fuelling the region’s burgeoning culinary scene. A recent shift in demographic (Surrey’s population is becoming increasingly younger and culturally diverse) is allowing this food scene to flourish. Newcomers are flocking to Surrey, and it’s their differences – income, taste, age and background – that are holding the food scene to the same high standards.
The variety of food that can now be found in Surrey is a testament to a constantly evolving cultural landscape. With a larger and more diverse population comes unique fusions and twists on ethnic classics. As the first Indian-style Chinese food restaurant in the Lower Mainland, Green Lettuce Restaurant is paving the way for innovative fusion. The concept was inspired by the owner who was born to Chinese parents and raised in India.
Of course, there are still plenty of traditional favourites to go around, from Greek, Lebanese and Italian to Portuguese, Caribbean and every kind of Asian cuisine imaginable (Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Malaysian, Thai… you name it!)
Chopsticks on Pho is Vietnamese cuisine at its best, a beautiful, modern bistro that’s truly an example of East meets West. Owners Steven and Lynn, partners in both businesses and life, are dedicated to sharing the delicate flavours of home with their patrons. Their menu features the popular Vietnamese staple, Pho, as well as spring rolls, salad rolls or the savoury Vietnamese Style Pad Thai.
Surrey’s South Asian community, who make up over a quarter of the population have contributed greatly to the city’s diverse tapestry. Naturally, this carries over into Surrey’s impressive culinary scene where South Asian food plays an integral role.
Vikram Vij – restaurant magnate, author, sommelier, and ‘Dragon’ on CBC’s Dragons Den – saw the potential for growth, and opened the colourful and cozy My Shanti in 2014. The menu is a reflection of Vij’s personal and culinary journeys throughout India.
Vikram Vij’s journeys are just one chapter in the book of Surrey’s food stories. Because ALL food tells a story. Every dish and every ingredient means something to someone. Surrey is a perfect place to go on a culinary adventure without having to pack a bag or book a flight.