Vancouver’s restaurant scene welcomes a new addition with a two-Michelin-starred establishment in the Kitsilano neighborhood called AnnaLena. This prestigious recognition marks the city’s first-ever restaurant to achieve such an honor, elevating it from its previous one-star status.
According to Michelin, AnnaLena’s exceptional service, innovative drinks, and the standout feature of its seasonally inspired tasting menu collectively contribute to its enchanting ambiance. Chef and owner Mike Robbins expressed his elation and surprise at the accolade, highlighting the team’s dedication, even undergoing renovations to enhance the dining experience.
Robbins shared insights into the restaurant’s unique approach, emphasizing his son’s unconventional method of menu creation using crayons, making it a distinctive culinary experience not necessarily appealing to everyone. Vancouver, along with Toronto, was initially featured in the Michelin Guide’s Canadian debut in 2022, later expanding to Quebec.
AnnaLena now stands alongside only two other Canadian restaurants holding the esteemed two-star rating, alongside Restaurant Pearl Morissette in Ontario and Tanière³ in Quebec City. Vancouver’s Michelin-starred establishments have been on a growth trajectory, with restaurants consistently maintaining their single-star status over the years. However, this year saw one restaurant losing its star.
Barbara Restaurant in Chinatown transitioned to the guide’s “recommended” list, joining 45 other notable dining spots. The guide also recognized several one-star winners this year, including Burdock & Co., iDen and QuaJuDe Beijing Duck House, Kissa Tanto, Masayoshi, Okeya Kyujiro, Published on Main, St. Lawrence, Sumibiyaki Arashi, Sushi Hyun, and Sushi Masuda. Additionally, 16 restaurants were acknowledged as “Bib Gourmands” for offering excellent value.
Michelin’s anonymous inspectors evaluate restaurants worldwide using consistent criteria, ensuring an unbiased assessment of culinary excellence.
