Vancouver’s culinary landscape has gained a new focal point with the opening of the Time Out Market at Oakridge Park, a redeveloped shopping complex situated between downtown and the airport along the Canada Line SkyTrain. The food hall, inaugurated in late May, represents the 13th iteration of the concept pioneered by the entertainment magazine’s first venue in Lisbon in 2014 and aims to showcase the city’s diverse flavors under one roof.
Oakridge Park, once Vancouver’s first shopping centre, was demolished in 2020 to make way for a $6.5 billion transformation that includes luxury retail alongside the food hall. While the upscale boutiques provide a quieter atmosphere, the Time Out Market draws a lively crowd to its expansive dining area filled with natural light, warm wood accents, communal seating arrangements, and even lazy Susans at some tables. A large outdoor terrace is also available, dog-friendly and licensed for drinks.
The market features 20 kitchens and four bars, representing a broad spectrum of local culinary talent and international cuisines. Notable vendors include Peacock, an Indian eatery led by Vikram Vij, known for its coconut-rich jackfruit curry and plans to serve signature dishes like Butter Chicken and lamb cutlets. Mee Bar, operated by Top Chef Canada winner Chanthy Yen, offers Cambodian specialties such as fried half-lobster with glass noodles infused with lemongrass kroeung paste. Yen expressed enthusiasm for the Time Out Market following his experience in Montreal’s first Canadian location, praising its community atmosphere and event programming.
Regular live music, DJ performances, and themed events such as Friday night tastings and mahjong Mondays support the market’s role as a community hub. Fitness and recreational activities, including Zumba classes, run clubs, a Parkour gym, and outdoor summer cinemas, complement the culinary experience.
Representing Vancouver’s diverse food scene, other prominent vendors include Lunch Lady by chef Nguyen Thi Thanh, known for her acclaimed Saigon-style phó bò soup, and Kishimoto, previously recognized as the city’s top Japanese restaurant, offering udon, teriyaki, and pressed sushi. Rob Feenie, an Iron Chef America alum, contributes an affordable wagyu cheeseburger option.
Additional offerings range from Thai dishes at MaKaam by Nutcha Phanthoupheng, celebrated for her demanding tasting menus, to handmade pasta with gluten-free options at Pasta e Basta. Chinatown’s Blind Tiger provides dumplings, while Beaucoup bakery delivers French-inspired pastries and unique market-exclusive desserts. Santo Taco, a relatively new addition to Vancouver, showcases authentic Mexican cuisine, and Via Tevere offers pizza and panini selections. Seafood lovers can visit Barnacle by Bar Bravo, a Michelin-recommended establishment.
The market also highlights Nashville-style fried chicken at Downlow, where chef Alex serves a spicy signature sandwich paired with a lemonade inspired by the Australian soft drink Solo, underlining the venue’s blend of local and international influences. Overall, the Time Out Market has quickly become an accessible, dynamic destination that encapsulates Vancouver’s rich culinary offerings.