Its opening at YVR marks the first standalone Pret A Manger in B.C. and the first in a Canadian airport. The launch also reflects YVR’s ongoing commitment on expanding food and beverage offerings, convenience, and service for every traveller. Known for its freshly prepared food and quick service, Pret has built a strong international following. Open 24 hours a day, the location is designed to match the pace of airport life, whether someone needs breakfast before an early flight, a quick lunch during work, or a snack on the go. From sandwiches and wraps to salads, baked goods, organic coffee, and a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, Pret offers something accessible for just about everyone.

The opening is also part of Pret’s broader Canadian airport expansion, with four new locations planned across YVR and Toronto Pearson International through 2026. That growth reflects increasing demand for fresh, high‑quality, and convenient food options in airport settings. In a fast-moving airport environment, its arrival adds something fresh, recognizable, and a little special for both travellers and airport staff.

That sense of anticipation is what makes Pret’s debut at YVR feel less like a routine opening and more like a welcome new addition to the journey.

As the first of three Pret A Manger locations set to open at YVR this year, this debut signals an exciting expansion of choice across the terminal and a warm welcome for a globally loved brand.

All of which makes Pret’s debut at YVR feel like a natural addition to the airport’s offerings, one that travellers can look forward to experiencing on their next trip.

During the grand opening, travellers could enjoy a special treat: complimentary donuts with the purchase of a Magic Mushroom Burger and fries—perfect for a quick bite or a tasty snack before their flight. 

The menu features hand-pressed natural beef burgers, fresh salads and bowls, and hearty breakfasts, all made to order. By sourcing certified natural beef from Semlin Valley Ranch in Cache Creek, B.C., and partnering with Cioffi’s Meat Market & Deli in Burnaby, Romer’s highlights the best of local cuisine.  

This collaboration reflects YVR’s commitment to supporting B.C. businesses and showcasing the region’s rich culinary identity, offering travellers an authentic West Coast taste while enhancing their airport experience. 

Inspired by the west coast lifestyle of keeping things fresh, local and fun, visit Romer’s before your next flight for notable favourites including the Magic Mushroom Burger, Truffle Fries and Drunken Donuts. 

Located post-security near E74 in the U.S. Departures area, Romer’s Fresh Kitchen & Bar, operated by SSP Canada, is a noteworthy addition to your travel journey, whether you’re stopping by for a quick grab-and-go meal or a full-service dining experience. This 13th SSP Canada location at YVR welcomes guests daily from 5:30 AM to 11 PM, serving great food, and an honest drink, all with a smile with an added dose of fun.  

Since opening in Steveston in 1985, Pajo’s has become a West Coast institution, known for fresh seafood, sustainable practices, and unbeatable waterfront charm. In 2017, the iconic fish and chips spot landed at YVR, bringing a taste of B.C.’s dockside dining to travellers in the International Food Court. This partnership reflects YVR’s ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses and showcasing the best of our province’s culinary scene.  

Through the decades, Pajo’s has earned a reputation for fresh, flavorful seafood—and its current menu reflects that legacy with both timeless classics and creative additions. Some of our favorites include:  

• B.C. Rock Snapper Tacos – a local favorite that blends coastal flavors with casual flair.  
• Bottomless Fries – a must-try indulgence that keeps guests coming back.  
• Breakfast Poutine – a satisfying twist on a Canadian classic, perfect for early risers. 

 To mark this milestone, we caught up with the Pajo’s team to uncover the secret behind their famously delicious recipes. 

If you want to join the celebration, Pajo’s is inviting the community to take part in a series of exciting anniversary events throughout the month, including: 

YVR Anniversary pop-up celebration – June 20, 12–1 p.m. 

• Celebrations continue with a fun and interactive event at Pajo’s YVR Airport, International food court location which first opened in 2017.  
• Stop by for your chance at prizes such as gift cards, YVR bucks, Pajo’s t-shirts, and caps, and view Pajo’s retro memorabilia.  

Shoreline clean up – June 26th 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. at Garry Point Park  

• Join Pajo’s for a family friendly Shoreline cleanup at Garry Point Park (PPEs, tools, snacks, and refreshment provided). You can join their clean up here by making an account and searching Garry Point Park.  

Whether you're flying out, arriving home, or just passing through, Pajo’s at YVR offers travellers a chance to enjoy a B.C. culinary tradition. And if you have time during your stay, be sure to check out their original location in Steveston. 

Sip Before You Soar

• Flying domestically or transborder? Try a glass of Haywire Chardonnay, an Okanagan favorite, at Vino Volo locations near gates B17 and E83.
• Lounge lovers rejoice! The Plaza Premium Lounge, with four locations at YVR, offers a relaxing space to unwind with a great selection of local wines. For First, Business, and Elite Plus customers, SkyTeam Lounge has recently been refurbished and often hosts wine tasting events with local wineries. 
• Wine with a view? Globe @ YVR in the Fairmont Vancouver Airport boasts a curated BC wine list paired with stunning airfield and mountain views.

Take the Taste Home

• World Duty Free in the International and Transborder departure areas carries a variety of wines, including local selections from FRIND Winery, Mission Hill and Phantom Creek. 
• GD Liquor located near domestic passenger pick up is a great option for travellers looking for convenience on the fly -- whether you arrived just in time for a dinner party, or are looking to thank a friend for driving you home from YVR. Stock up on Blue Mountain rosé or the notoriously sold-out Sauvignon Blanc.

Other Notable Spots

For more opportunities to sip BC wine, check out White Spot, Stanley Park Taphouse, Paper Planes Café, Salmon n’ Bannock On The Fly,  Lift, Icons Bar and Grill and various lounges throughout the airport.

No matter where you choose to indulge, enjoy responsibly and raise a glass to BC Wine Month! 

At YVR, we take pride in showcasing the best of our region by partnering with local, best-in-class brands that reflect the spirit of our community. White Spot’s return reflects that commitment, and we can’t wait to share this iconic B.C. experience with travellers from around the world. 

The new White Spot at YVR will offer the same warm atmosphere and beloved classic dishes that Canadians know and love, along with exclusive, innovative menu items crafted with the airport community in mind. New offerings include Crispy Tofu, Tuna Poke Bowl, Wagyu Burgers made with 1/3-pound Brant Lake wagyu beef, and a Prawn &Bacon Benny, as well as signature cocktails like the Jalapeño Margarita, Paloma, Italian Greyhound, and Wildberry Gin Mule. 

Designed with a refreshed West Coast aesthetic, this new space will provide a relaxing environment where passengers can unwind before takeoff or enjoy a taste of home upon arrival. 

With White Spot now open at YVR, come enjoy a legendary taste of B.C. before your flight!

“I am delighted to welcome White Spot back to YVR and have this truly beloved dining option open to travellers and our airport community,” said Tamara Vrooman, President & CEO at YVR. “YVR takes great pride in delivering an exceptional experience, and partnering with local, best-in-class brands like White Spot is a key part of fulfilling that commitment.”  

Located in the Domestic departures area, pre-security, the new location provides travellers, staff and those visiting the airport with the option to enjoy classic White Spot menu items as well as offerings exclusive to this location. YVR-exclusive menu items include Crispy Tofu, a selection of wagyu burgers, all day breakfast offerings, such as a Prawn & Bacon Benny, as well as signature cocktails like the Jalapeño Margarita, Paloma, Italian Greyhound, and Wildberry Gin Mule. 

YVR partnered with White Spot and Western Canadian franchisee, ECG Ventures II, to bring the new restaurant to the airport. Designed to reflect the landscape of British Columbia in line with YVR’s unique sense of place, the space features a refreshed West Coast aesthetic. This is evident in the interior detailing with tones of green, warm reds and copper accents, mixed with wood and stone textures for a warm atmosphere.  

“We are excited to bring White Spot back to YVR, with a renewed fresh look and unique menu designed for the YVR community,” said Trent Carroll, President of White Spot. “We’re grateful for the opportunity provided by YVR and the involvement of our valued partner, ECG Ventures II, whose shared vision and expertise have played a key role in getting us to opening day. We can’t wait to welcome more travellers from B.C. and beyond through our doors to experience the great taste and hospitality White Spot is known for.” 

Situated in a prime location that is accessible to all, the restaurant is open daily, starting April 7 from 4:00 a.m. to midnight. 

The new White Spot location marks the 16^th food and beverage offering to open at the airport since 2022 and highlights YVR’s commitment to ensuring a mix of global brands and local favourites to showcase the best of the community for the world to experience and enjoy.  

– 30 – 

We are celebrating this exciting new route direct to the Philippines in a delicious way—by taking food lovers on a flavourful tour through the Lower Mainland with our Taste of the Philippines contest.  

Taste of the Philippines will invite participants to explore six Filipino restaurants, each offering an authentic experience of this Southeast Asia destination, known for its rich culinary heritage.  

At each location, participants can scan a QR code to enter for their chance to win roundtrip airfare for two, direct to Manila with Air Canada. 

YVR’s Taste of the Philippines food tour and contest highlights some of the best Filipino eateries in Metro Vancouver, each offering a taste of the country’s rich and diverse culinary traditions: 

• Kulinarya Filipino Eatery (Vancouver) – Known for its authentic home-style Filipino cooking, Kulinarya serves up favorites such as sizzling Sisig and a flavorful vegan Kare Kare.  
• Little Ongpin (Richmond) – A staple for Filipino cuisine, offering comfort food at its best with pancit (stir-fried noodles) and comforting arroz caldo (rice porridge). 
• Win Win Chick’N (Richmond) – A must-visit for those craving perfectly crispy Filipino fried chicken, seasoned to perfection and served with classic sauces, from a family-owned restaurant that brought its flavors from Manila to Canada. 
• Hapag Ihaw Ihaw (Vancouver) – Known for its signature dish, crispy pata—a crispy, deep-fried pork leg that quickly became a customer favorite—this dish was perfected by combining "his and hers" recipe versions into one. 
• Mr. Siopao De Langley (Langley) – Famous for its soft and fluffy siopao (steamed buns) filled with savory meats, alongside other Filipino baked goods. The restaurant setting is complemented by karaoke, adding an extra dose of fun to your dining experience. 
• La Meza Grill (Delta) – A family-owned restaurant dedicated to serving the comforting flavors of home since 2014. Offering a mix of traditional and modern Filipino dishes, its menu features favorites like kare-kare (peanut stew), seafood sinigang (sour tamarind soup), sizzling pork sisig, Cebu lechon, and halo-halo. 

How to Enter: To participate, visit any of the six featured restaurants, listed above as well as on the web app: HERE

Scan the QR code displayed at each restaurant and follow the onscreen instructions to check-in and be entered to win the grand prize: a pair of economy-class flight vouchers (valued up to $6,400 CAD) for a roundtrip journey from YVR to Manila with Air Canada. 

The more places you visit, the more entries you can receive. Be sure to scan the QR code at each restaurant for additional entries.  

This contest is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the flavors of the Philippines while celebrating Air Canada’s new direct route. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Filipino food, part of the Filipino community or trying it for the first time, Taste of the Philippines is your passport to discovering new flavors, supporting local businesses, and embracing the spirit of adventure. 

Start your culinary adventure today and taste your way to the Philippines! 

Contest terms and conditions are available here: YVR Taste of the Philippines Giveaway Contest | YVR 

Hula Poké: For those seeking a fresh and fruity start to their travels within Canada.

Fresh, sweet, and savoury breakfast sandwiches, rice bowls, Hawaiian Parfaits, and Coladas. Available until 10:30 AM post security near Gate B14.

7-Eleven: For those with both good breakfast and saving money on their 2025 bingo card.

$1 ALL DAY BREAKFAST. Get any breakfast sandwich, wrap or bakery item for $1 with the purchase of any regular priced hot of iced coffee. Available pre-security on Domestic Level One, valid until April 29th, 2025.

Bubble Waffle Café: For those who want to try something new.

Try Hong Kong style breakfast items like bubble waffles, HK Style Waffle Cakes, or Egg & Spam Waffles. Located pre-security at International Departures.

Salmon n’ Bannock on The Fly: For passengers travelling internationally looking to try Indigenous cuisine.

For an Indigenous-style breakfast, try the Bestwich or Lox Bannockwich with a Spirit Bear Coffee espresso. Available for international travelers.

Next time you’re travelling, be sure to check out what’s available near your departure gate in advance and arrive early to treat yourself to a fresh and nutritious breakfast before take-off. Afterall, we’ve heard people say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

Bon appétit and safe travels!

Bubble Waffle Café, known for its Hong Kong-style cuisine, has earned a reputation for excellence across British Columbia and beyond. The quick-service restaurant serves an array of favorites, including soup noodles, Hainanese Chicken on Rice, Dry Noodle Combos, its signature mouthwatering bubble waffles, and Hong Kong-style drinks. 

First opening its doors in 2012 at Richmond’s Aberdeen Centre, Bubble Waffle Café quickly gained popularity for its authentic flavors and high-quality offerings. Since then, it has expanded throughout Western Canada, with locations in the Lower Mainland, Kelowna, and Calgary.  

At YVR, we’re proud to partner with local businesses like Bubble Waffle Café to showcase the unique flavours of our region and connect travellers from around the world to the heart of Vancouver’s vibrant food scene.  

So, whether you’re embarking on a journey or returning home, make sure to stop by Bubble Waffle Café at YVR’s International Terminal to enjoy a taste of Richmond before you take off. 

On May 8, we kicked things off with in-terminal festivities complete with hula dancers. And until May 30, you can stop by our tropical tasting stations around the terminal to try out some sweet sips from Hula Poké, illy Caffè, Joe & the Juice and World Duty Free. 

Snap a shot of yourself en route to paradise at our WestJet photo station. To find it, head down the stairs after you pass through the Domestic Security Checkpoint and keep an eye out for the beach. 

Wanna keep the party going? We’re offering two lucky passengers the chance to win a round-trip flight to Hawaii thanks to our friends at WestJet! Check out our Instagram page for more details on how to enter. 

Next time you fly domestic, start your vacation early with a stop at Hula Poké near Gate B14. It’s the 12^th local brand to open a storefront at YVR since 2022—and we’re going to keep the good times rolling with plenty more great food & beverage options on the way.