AnnaLena is a Michelin-starred contemporary Canadian restaurant at 1809 West 1st Avenue in Kitsilano, Vancouver. Chef Michael Robbins opened it in 2015 and named it after his two grandmothers. The restaurant describes itself as “a dedication to the imagination.” Travelers book it for a playful, seasonal tasting menu built on British Columbia ingredients, served in a relaxed room a short walk from Kitsilano Beach.
What to Expect at AnnaLena
Dinner is a single tasting menu priced at $198 per person. The menu changes with the seasons and with what the kitchen can source, so no two visits are quite the same. The menu card does not list every ingredient, which keeps some surprise in each course. Robbins’ cooking pairs fine-dining technique with humour and nostalgia. Expect West Coast seafood, local vegetables and whimsical presentations that nod to childhood flavours.
The dining room is warm and contemporary, with wood surfaces, an open feel and a soundtrack that keeps the mood far from stuffy. A considered wine list leans toward British Columbia and natural-leaning producers. The bar also offers creative cocktails and non-alcoholic pairings. Groups can book private dining, and gift certificates are sold through the official website.
- Seasonal Tasting Menu: A multi-course $198 menu that evolves with BC harvests and seafood seasons.
- Michelin Recognition: Awarded one star when the Michelin Guide arrived in Vancouver in 2022.
- Wine and Cocktail Program: BC-forward bottles, inventive cocktails and zero-proof options.
- Playful Plating: Courses designed to surprise, with nostalgic flavours reworked in refined form.
- Private Dining: Group bookings for celebrations, arranged directly with the restaurant.
AnnaLena at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 1809 W 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 5B8 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Kitsilano, near the south end of Burrard Bridge |
| Operating Hours | Tuesday–Sunday 5–9 PM; closed Monday |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$$; tasting menu $198 per person, drinks extra |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 2.5 to 3 hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Buses on West 4th Avenue and Burrard Street; metered street parking on 1st Avenue and side streets |
| Official Website & Phone | annalena.ca · +1 778-379-4052 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Reserve on Resy as early as possible. Friday and Saturday seatings fill weeks ahead, while Tuesday and Wednesday are easier to book. Mention allergies or dietary needs when you book. The menu is fixed, so the kitchen needs notice to adapt it. Dress is smart casual. Several TransLink routes run along West 4th Avenue, a few minutes’ walk uphill, and the Burrard Street corridor connects the area to downtown.
The restaurant entrance sits at street level. Guests using wheelchairs should call ahead to confirm table placement and washroom access. Before dinner, walk about 10 minutes to Kitsilano Beach for sunset. You can also visit Vanier Park, home to the Museum of Vancouver and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. Granville Island is about a 15-minute stroll east along the seawall.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is AnnaLena open?
Dinner runs Tuesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 PM, and the restaurant is closed Monday. Early weekday seatings offer the calmest experience.
How much does the tasting menu cost?
The tasting menu is $198 per person, before drinks, tax and gratuity. Reservations through Resy are strongly recommended.
How long does dinner take?
Plan for roughly 2.5 to 3 hours for the full progression of courses. Add more time if you choose a wine pairing.
Is there a dress code?
There is no formal dress code, and smart casual attire fits the relaxed room. The long tasting format suits adults and older children better than young kids.
When planning your Vancouver travel guide or browsing verified attractions in Vancouver, pair this stop with standout local spots including Vancouver Island, Salmon n' Bannock, Vancouver Police Museum & Archives, and H.R. MacMillan Space Centre (0.6 km away).
