Name: Zapoteca Cantina de Barrio
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.7

Zapoteca Cantina de Barrio

Mexican · Vancouver, BC · $$

LivelyGreat for groupsCocktails

Authentic Mexican specializing in Oaxacan flavors and creative dishes from Southern Mexico. Located on West 4th Ave and Alma in Kitsilano, this stylish restaurant is in the former space of The Cove. Come join us for a fresh lime margarita at happy hour 2pm-5pm and after 10pm (excluding holidays). Brunch: Open to 2pm each day featuring your favorite handhelds or breakfast classics such as Huevos Rancheros, Chiliqueles and more. Lunch Open to 5pm each day featuring delicious sharables options and our classic tacos. Dinner: 5pm-10pm the full evening menu includes the classic entrees such as molcajetes and enchiladas, but will also include seasonally rotated dishes by the chef. Minors admitted with a parent or guardian until 8pm. Government issued photo identification will be required for anyone appearing under the age of 35 years old.

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What diners say

“Had a great dinner at Zapoteca Cantina de Barrio tonight. The quesabirrias were rich, crispy, and packed with flavor, and the pescado tacos were fresh and perfectly cooked. We also tried the mole taster, which was a nice way to experience the depth and variety of their sauces. Service from Kira was friendly and attentive throughout the meal. The atmosphere felt warm and relaxed, making it a great spot for a casual dinner. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in Vancouver and craving solid Mexican food.”

5.0 · Google — Harv Shen

“We were consistently surprised by the thoughtfulness, depth and authentic flavour in each of the contemporary dishes (and beverages!) we tried tonight. Staff were kind, attentive and genuine fans of this establishment which only added to the lively yet casual atmosphere. Beautiful spot with beautiful food! Will be back 😊🇲🇽”

5.0 · Google — Elsa Gray

“The food really impressed at Zapoteca. The Breakfast Burrito was my favourite while the Tacos De Pescado (fish tacos) was a kid favourite for those that like a bit of spice. I also quite enjoyed a few of their house made Tortilla chips from their deconstructed Nachos on the kids menu. Last but not least, drinks were also a hit.”

5.0 · Google — Daniel

“Zapoteca on West 4th felt like a bit of a surprise find. Oaxaca-inspired cooking isn’t something I usually come across in Vancouver’s Mexican spots, so the menu immediately stood out. The Choriqueso was the easiest win of the night. It came out bubbling hot, the cheese pulling into long strands as you scooped it onto warm tortillas, with the chorizo adding a gentle spice and smokiness that tied everything together. It’s rich and comforting food. The mole tasting was more of a mixed experience for me. I’m still not quite there with mole overall, the herbal version in particular felt quite unfamiliar, with a sharp, earthy depth that I couldn’t fully get into yet. The mole amarillo was the most approachable, softer and more balanced, with a warmth that sat better on the palate. The plantain croquettes, though, were an easy highlight, slightly crisp outside, soft inside, and a nice contrast against the sauces. The ceviche was clean and bright, with citrus, avocado, and shrimp keeping things light between the heavier plates. The barbacoa leaned rich and slow-cooked, the kind of dish that’s best eaten with tortillas and time. The fish tacos were straightforward and well executed, light batter, flaky fish, and fresh toppings that kept it simple.”

3.0 · Google — Stanford Chung

“I just dined there for the first time with some work colleagues. I ordered the enchiladas and wasn't impressed. The tortillas were dry and partially hard, and way to much sauce on top almost like soup. I was really hoping given the reviews are positive that the food would be great. I also tried a taste of the Barbacoa which was pretty good, lastly the choco mole dessert looked good, but it was really dry.”

3.0 · Google — Tiffany Thornton