Ways to Search

• A - Z: Spice Trail Restaurants Surrey's Culinary Spice Trail highlights the flavours and international influences that inspire Greater Vancouver's most diverse restaurant scene.
• Afghan Often, Afghan cuisine will layer region-specific fruits, like pomegranate, in with hearty rice and meat dishes to bring an unexpected pop of flavour that will keep you coming back for more.
• African It is impossible to encapsulate the range of flavours found in Africa into a single definition. With such a wide diversity of spices, ingredients, cooking styles, we highly recommend trying dishes that originate from as many regions of the continent as possible to find your favourites.
• Arabic Centuries-old cultures and cooking techniques meet with some of the most modern influences in culinary arts to produce cuisines that are rich in spices, distinctive breads and sauces... and a few twists on familiar favourites (Arabic doughnuts anyone?)
• Caribbean Caribbean cuisine is full of dynamic flavours - rum and rounded hot sauces, unique spice rubs, marinades and tropical chutneys are frequent features. Spice wood-grilled food and slow-cooked, humble one-pot stews are classics that explode with flavour!
• Central American The flavours of Central America are almost too diverse to categorize together - as you discover the regional nuances, you'll be transported through each area's rich history represented in spices, produce, and signature dishes!
• Cocktails What would a tour of the world's most inspired culinary experiences be without a signature cocktail to match? The Spice Trail is home to some of the most innovative bartenders who incorporate the flavours of their region to perfection!
• Colombian Pairing grilled cuts of meat with tropical fruits and soups that eat like a meal! Columbian food is under-represented and full of flavour.
• El Salvadoran With a signature spin on Central American flavours, El Salvadoran cuisine is a must-try for anyone who loves the flavours of Mesoamerica. Think thicker corn tortillas, deep-fried cassava root, and unique tamales wrapped in plantain leaves. Though each chef puts their own spin on these flavours, so don't take our word for it - go give it a try!
• Indian (North) North Indian cuisine is a bit more common in Canada and you'll see some familiar dishes, like butter chicken and naan. But ask for a chef's recommendation and you'll quickly discover a new favourite.
• Indian (South) South Indian restaurants lean towards fresh fruit and vegetables that are native to the rainier Southern regions of the country. Think coconut milk and chicory coffee.
• Indian Sweets Collectively called Mithai, which comes from the word meaning "sweet", Indian Sweets are something familiar... with a twist! Typical sugar, milk/condensed milk flavours are punched up by regional variations and accented with flavours of pistachio, cardamon, nutmeg, and more. And if you're looking for a visual treat, these are sure to impress!
• Indo Chinese As the name implies, Indo-Chinese food blends the cuisines of its two namesakes. The fusion of these different styles creates something wholly unique (and tasty!).
• Jamaican Jamaican food is perhaps the best known of the Caribbean flavours - Jerk chicken springs to mind and the spicy, sweet, salty, and aromatic flavour is instantly recognizable. However, there is a lot more to the island's cuisine and it is worth checking out!
• Japanese Japanese food is so much more than sushi and tempura! (Though we love those, too, of course). Regional differences and influences from around the world have led to an ever-evolving food culture that is sure to please. Did you know that elements of Japanese cuisine are even on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List?
• Korean Many people are familiar with Korean BBQ and kimchi, but there is so much more to Korean food to explore! Stews, rice dishes, noodles... we could go on!
• Lebanese A blend of Mediterranean, Arabic, and North African flavours comes together in Lebanese food. Ranging from bright and fresh vegetable-first flavours to earth and spiced grilled meats... all we can say is: Yum!
• Malaysian You would be hard-pressed to find a cuisine that draws from more influences than Malaysian. Notes of Chinese and Indian cuisines with hints of Portuguese, Dutch, and Indonesian make this an exciting option!
• Mediterranean When most people think Mediterranean, the flavours of Greece and Italy spring forward as some of the most familiar flavours. But the Mediterranean serves as a network of trading routes to bring influences from Northern Africa, Asia and Europe together in celebration of fresh and bold flavours. You might be surprised what you find!
• Mexican Mexican food is so much more than tacos - taking a step away from familiar "tex-mex" dishes will treat your palette to some of our favourite Spice Trail flavours. (tacos get some love, too)
• Nepalese Nepalese food is new to a lot of people, but it will feel familiar (with a twist). Taking cues from North Indian, Chinese, and Tibetian foods, but adding a unique twist makes this a must-try!
• Spice Trail Retail With amazing fresh vegetables, prepared foods, items for celebrations, and the best selection of spices, these are the go-to places for international flavours for home cooks in Surrey.
• Syrian Bringing together the flavours from many culinary regions, Syrian dining focuses on a full experience. Begin with mezze (a selection of appetizers) and you won't be disappointed - finish with coffee and sweet confections - put it all together with satisfying and diverse mains... perfection!
• Thai Thai food is a beautiful dance of five main flavours: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and spicy. Don't let the last two fool you though, as the balance between flavours creates a satisfying and distinct experience. So much more than just Pad Thai (but that is always a favourite, too!)
• Vegetarian International cuisine seems to put a different emphasis on vegetarian food. These dining experiences feature vegetables as the star!
• Vietnamese Pho, Banhmi, and Che Bap are some of the most comforting and delicious foods you've heard of, but pretty much anything in Vietnamese cuisine has an authentic comfort-food vibe that makes it a great choice. Deep broths, delicately cooked meats, fresh veggies... need we say more?
• West African Cuisine from the 16 countries that make up West Africa is quite varied, but there are common threads that link the dishes together into a must-try. Many dishes start from a base of tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers (yum!) but unique dishes spring forth from every corner of the region, making West African food a must-try!