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Vancouver

The Lunch Lady in Vancouver is celebrated for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine, attentive service, and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons frequently commend the flavorful dishes, especially the beef pho and crispy spring rolls. The ambiance is lively, with a modern twist on traditional Vietnamese decor. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity, and the staff is noted for their friendliness and efficiency.

discover the lunch lady on commercial drive vancouver's vietnamese gem 

Nestled in the lively neighborhood of Grandview-Woodland, The Lunch Lady at 1046 Commercial Drive is a must-visit casual eatery for anyone craving authentic Vietnamese flavors in Vancouver. This vibrant spot shines with its dedication to crafting traditional staples like pho, garlic noodles, and meat plates, while infusing each dish with inventive, modern twists that keep the menu exciting and fresh.

Food lovers rave about the exquisite flavors and presentation here. Standouts include the crispy prawns with shells that redefine the way you enjoy seafood, tender tofu dishes that surprise and satisfy even the most discerning palates, and the ever-popular garlic noodles and soft shell crab that keep guests coming back for more. Each plate tells a story of Vietnamese street vendor inspiration, brilliantly brought to life in a cozy yet energetic setting.

The Lunch Lady’s interior is intimate and bustling, echoing the lively pulse of Vietnamese street markets. While the space is cozy and can be a bit noisy, this only adds to the authentic charm and vibrant energy. The attentive staff offer personable and efficient service, guiding you through the menu with enthusiasm and knowledge. Note that reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot, as walk-ins often face a wait due to the restaurant's popularity.

Tuesday to Thursday 11 AM – 2:30 PM / 5 PM – 9 PM; Friday 11 AM – 3 PM / 5 PM – 10 PM; Saturday and Sunday 10:30 AM – 3 PM / 5 PM – 9 PM; closed Mondays.

Paid street parking is available near the restaurant for your convenience.

Highly recommended via OpenTable to avoid waits as the restaurant fills quickly.

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all guests.

Available through Uber Eats for enjoying The Lunch Lady’s delights at home.

Beyond the food, The Lunch Lady embodies the spirit of Vietnamese street food culture with a local Vancouver twist. It’s a hotspot for foodies and trend-conscious travelers looking to immerse themselves in authentic tastes and a lively communal vibe. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal innovation ensures there’s always something new to discover, making every visit an adventure for your palate.

North America

Canada

Nestled in the vibrant Grandview-Woodland neighborhood of Vancouver, The Lunch Lady is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Vietnamese street food. This cozy eatery, located at 1046 Commercial Drive, is renowned for its authentic flavors and a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting. The atmosphere is lively, often bustling with diners eager to experience the rich, aromatic dishes that have made this restaurant a local favorite.

The Lunch Lady's menu is a vibrant tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine, featuring standout dishes that are both comforting and exhilarating. One must-try dish is the **Garlic Noodles**, a delightful blend of perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a savory garlic sauce, garnished with fresh herbs that elevate each bite. Another highlight is the **Soft Shell Crab**, which is fried to a golden crisp, delivering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with its tender meat. Each dish is a celebration of flavors, making it a paradise for food lovers.


- Garlic Noodles
- Soft Shell Crab
- Bone Marrow
- Tofu Dishes
- Crispy Prawns

Conveniently located on Commercial Drive, The Lunch Lady is surrounded by a plethora of shops, cafes, and parks, making it an ideal spot for a delicious meal after a day of exploring. Nearby attractions include the vibrant Commercial Drive itself, known for its eclectic mix of boutiques and cultural experiences, as well as the beautiful Trout Lake Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll.


The Lunch Lady is celebrated for its authentic Vietnamese dishes, particularly the Garlic Noodles and Soft Shell Crab, which have garnered rave reviews from locals and visitors alike.


Visiting The Lunch Lady offers a unique opportunity to indulge in fresh, seasonal Vietnamese cuisine in a lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, The Lunch Lady invites you to experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam right in the heart of Vancouver. Make a reservation, bring your friends, and savor the delightful dishes that await you. Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in a culinary journey that promises to be both memorable and delicious.

Casual eatery offering Vietnamese staples such as pho, noodles & meat plates, plus unique cocktails.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnMl9fbWlRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJL9D-EKBxhlQRsrmXmBaXfUU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnMl9fbWlRRRAB

The food was on another level. All 4 dishes we tried were excellent and highly recommended. Surprisingly, the tofu was my favorite dish, followed by garlic noodles. The prawns with shells were incredibly crispy. I've never enjoyed eating prawn shells before. It was really difficult to get a reservation. I wouldn't bother to do walk-ins and they're almost always full. The interior is small and quite noisy but the food more than makes up for it

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnNnVpb1BnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJL9D-EKBxhlQRsrmXmBaXfUU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnNnVpb1BnEAE

Interesting place, the food was tasty,  many different flavors and the plates very well presented.

The atmosphere was quite basic for the price.

The servers were mostly taking orders and delivering food, they were rushing everybody, which didn't really give me enough time to enjoy the food, we had a reservation for 5pm ( they have a line up before they open) and we were told that we get the table for 1.3hrs , which i kinda understand because they had a line up when we arrived but by 6:30 the restaurant was empty and there weren't anyone outside so, i don't understand why were they rushing us all the time.
Anyway,  next time I might order online better

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmbGNTYW5RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJL9D-EKBxhlQRsrmXmBaXfUU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmbGNTYW5RRRAB

Been a regular at lunch lady since day one and love that they keep doing new seasonal dishes to keep things fresh. I typically have my go too dishes but my friends and I always try to order I items that we haven’t tried along with the staple items for us are the Garlic Noodles and the Soft Shell Crab.

Food was excellent, service was very good despite it being super busy as usual. It is a noisier restaurant and seating can be a bit crammed for the space. If you looking for something more quiet and comfortable (roomy) this may not be the best option but this restaurants charm comes from the inspiration of Vietnamese street vendor feels !!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbC12Vm9nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJL9D-EKBxhlQRsrmXmBaXfUU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbC12Vm9nRRAB

The Lunch Lady is a Vancouver classic and favourite for a reason!  The food is absolutely spectacular, the service is kind and efficient, and the entire atmosphere is lovely. If you can score a reservation, I highly recommend it! Our favourite dishes were the bone marrow and garlic noodles. Save room for dessert too!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2NFB6YXdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJL9D-EKBxhlQRsrmXmBaXfUU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2NFB6YXdnRRAB

Absolutely amazing food! The service was personable and engaging, as the servers described what we were about to enjoy. Thank you for addressing us as we got a rundown of what was on the table. The place was packed and they could be short by a server or 2 because there were service gaps as they had to attend to so many diners. The tastes were nuanced and varied. There’s so much more to experience through multiple visits. They get booked heavily so make time.

Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine at The Lunch Lady, Vancouver

The Lunch Lady is a renowned Vietnamese restaurant in Vancouver, inspired by the legendary Mrs. Nguyễn Thị Thanh, known as the 'Lunch Lady' in Ho Chi Minh City. The Vancouver location opened in 2020, bringing authentic Vietnamese street food to the city. Mrs. Thanh passed away in May 2025, shortly after arriving in Toronto for the opening of a new location.

Authentic Vietnamese street food with a modern twist, featuring rotating daily specials and a variety of appetizers, mains, and desserts.

Fried Taro Chips & Dip

Prawn & Pork Salad Rolls

Pork Spring Rolls

Vegetable Spring Rolls

Tofu Salad Rolls

Beef Carpaccio

Duck Salad

Bún Thái (Thursday Special)

Phở Bò - Beef Noodle Soup

Phở Chay - Vegan Noodle Soup

Cơm Bò Lúc Lắc - Steak Luc Lac on Rice

Cơm Gà - Grilled Chicken on Rice

Cơm Sườn - Grilled Pork Collar on Rice

Bún Chay - Fried Tofu Vermicelli Bowl

Bún Thịt Nướng - Pork Belly Vermicelli Bowl

Bún Gà Nướng - Grilled Chicken Vermicelli Bowl

Grilled Chicken Thigh

Grilled Pork Belly Skewer

Crispy Waffle Fries

Fried Chinese Donut

Churros with Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream

Chè Ba Màu - Pandan Sticky Rice Cake

Lunch Lady Menu

The Lunch Lady's authentic Vietnamese menu overview

Nestled in the heart of Vancouver's vibrant Grandview-Woodland neighborhood, The Lunch Lady invites you to explore a true culinary gem featuring authentic Vietnamese flavors. This casual eatery serves up a thoughtfully curated selection of fresh, local ingredients transformed into traditional dishes with a modern twist. Whether you're seeking comforting noodle bowls or irresistible starters, every bite promises vibrant tastes and satisfying textures.

Begin your meal with a variety of tantalizing starters that blend crispy textures with bold flavors. The Fried Taro Chips & Dip offer crunchy taro paired with a zesty green chilli and dill aioli, delivering a delightful contrast. For a fresh and satisfying bite, the Prawn & Pork Salad Rolls combine succulent tiger prawns with house-cured pork belly, served alongside a rich peanut sauce. Char-grilled options like the Grilled Pork Belly Skewer and Grilled Chicken Thigh provide smoky, marinated perfection. Don't miss the Crispy Waffle Fries, accompanied by luc lac butter sauce, or the savory Fried Chinese Donut for a unique twist.

The Lunch Lady’s mains showcase an enticing array of vermicelli bowls and grilled specialties. The Fried Tofu Vermicelli Bowl features crispy tofu glazed with garlic lemongrass atop delicate vermicelli noodles, complemented by a crispy vegetable spring roll. Meat lovers will savor the Pork Belly Vermicelli Bowl packed with char-grilled pork belly skewers, fresh vegetables, and a crispy pork spring roll, while the Grilled Chicken Vermicelli Bowl highlights lemongrass chicken with a similar fresh and crunchy accompaniment. The Grilled Pork Collar on Rice is a hearty dish featuring char-grilled pork collar, scallion oil, pork crackling, steamed rice, and a perfectly cooked free-range fried egg — a true comfort food favorite.

Drinks and specials for a complete experience

Complement your meal with a curated selection of unique cocktails, wines, and beers that perfectly enhance the vibrant flavors of the menu. The Lunch Lady's lively atmosphere and dedication to fresh, authentic Vietnamese fare make it a standout destination for food enthusiasts and locals alike seeking a memorable dining experience in Vancouver.

Savor authentic Vietnamese delights at The Lunch Lady in Vancouver's Grandview-Woodland! Dive into vibrant flavors and unique dishes today!

Vancouver's The Lunch Lady: Authentic Vietnamese Eats

Vancouver Municipality

The Lunch Lady

Limited takeout orders available per hour; not all dishes are available for takeout & delivery. Orders can be placed through Uber Eats.

Takeout & Delivery

Reservations available for lunch and dinner; OpenTable reservations are limited to 4 guests. For parties of 5 or more, email reservations.yvr@thelunchlady.com.

Reservations

Discover The Lunch Lady on Commercial Drive in Vancouver, BC, Canada — a vibrant spot where Vietnamese street food culture comes alive with bold flavors and inviting ambiance.

Nestled in the artistic Grandview-Woodland neighborhood, The Lunch Lady is a beloved restaurant that brings authentic Vietnamese staples such as pho, garlic noodles, and soft shell crab to Vancouver’s food scene. This casual eatery is praised for its culinary creativity and dedication to seasonal dishes, making it a hotspot for foodies and locals alike.

Expect a lively atmosphere reminiscent of bustling Vietnamese street vendors, where the aroma of freshly cooked dishes fills the air. While the space is cozy and can be noisy during peak hours, the exceptional quality of the food more than compensates. Diners rave about standout dishes like the crispy prawns with shells, richly flavored bone marrow, and aromatic garlic noodles—all crafted with nuanced and varied tastes that invite multiple visits.

The Lunch Lady’s menu features a delicious array of Vietnamese classics alongside innovative seasonal plates. From tender tofu dishes to perfectly cooked meat plates and soul-warming pho, each dish is beautifully presented with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Complement your meal with unique cocktails, a curated wine list, or refreshing beer for an elevated dining experience.

Whether you prefer to dine in, take out, or enjoy delivery, The Lunch Lady caters to your lifestyle with flexible options. Secure your table through OpenTable reservations to avoid the busy rush. Prefer to eat at home? Order conveniently via Uber Eats for takeout or delivery. The venue offers outdoor seating and is family-friendly, making it ideal for groups and children alike.

 Available through OpenTable for a hassle-free booking experience.

 Order online via Uber Eats and enjoy your favorites at home or on the go.

 Available through Uber Eats, bringing the vibrant tastes of The Lunch Lady straight to your door.

Metro Vancouver

Experience authentic Vietnamese street food in Vancouver's Grandview-Woodland. The Lunch Lady offers delicious, modern Vietnamese cuisine. Book now!

Vancouver Vietnamese Restaurant: The Lunch Lady in Grandview-Woodland

Savor flavorful Vietnamese dishes in Vancouver’s vibrant neighborhood. The Lunch Lady provides a unique culinary experience with top-rated dishes. Reserve today!

Discover The Lunch Lady Vancouver – Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine & More

Enjoy authentic Vietnamese street food in Vancouver on Commercial Drive. The Lunch Lady offers a diverse menu, outdoor seating, and quick service. Visit us!

Delicious Vietnamese Cuisine at The Lunch Lady, Vancouver

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