Vancouver is regularly voted as the best city in the world to live due to the cleanliness of the streets, the employment opportunities, the healthcare system, the infrastructure and safety. These qualities and this status attract people from all over the world to settle in the city, many of whom open up restaurants selling their native cuisine. Below are some of the best ethnic restaurants in downtown Vancouver, where incidentally Holiday Velvet has many Downtown Vancouver holiday rentals!Samba Brazilian SteakhouseAddress: 1122 Alberni St. VancouverOpening times: 1130-1530 then 1730-2300Steak is a dish which is popular universally. At the Samba Brazilian Steakhouse one can enjoy top quality steaks as well as an extensive barbeque menu. The Brazilian culture is a colourful one which includes a large amount of music and dancing, so the assortment of entertainment available at the Samba Steakhouse comes as no surprise.San Sui Wah – Chinese FoodAddress: 3888 Main StreetOpening times: 10-1500 then 1700-2230The San Sui Wah restaurant on Main Street is a highly acclaimed establishment which offers genuinely top quality Chinese cuisine in an authentic setting. There is a good choice on the menu, which includes Dim Sum, specialities and a main menu. The roasted squab is something which comes particularly well recommended. Bistro Pastis – French FoodAddress: 2153 West Fourth AvenueWeb: French bistro VancouverOpening times: 1100-1400 then 1730-2230The French are famous for the quality of their food which has influenced the cuisine of so many cultures. At this establishment in the centre of Vancouver you can discover exactly why.Vij’s Rangoli – Indian FoodAddress: 1488 West 11th AvenueOpening times: 1100-2200One of the best features of this establishment is the fact that it manages to successfully combine being an Indian food market and a high level Indian restaurant. The market consists of ready to eat frozen meals, Indian cookbooks and a large range of spices of ingredients. If you don’t fancy getting your hands dirty in the kitchen you can choose from the acclaimed menu. Mona’s Lebanese CuisineAddress: 1328 Hornby StOpening times: 1100-1400 then 1700-0100Lebanese cuisine is one which is often neglected when people go out for food. However, the menu at this downtown Vancouver restaurant demonstrates why it is becoming increasingly popular. The unique dishes which range from mild to spicy will suit all.

Since 2006 Holiday Velvet offers Vancouver holiday apartments.