5 Best Desserts in Vancouver (2025 Guide)

Vancouver’s dessert scene is one of the most exciting in Canada — full of creativity, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re strolling through Kitsilano, exploring Mount Pleasant, or wandering downtown after dinner, the city offers something for every kind of sweet tooth.

From the most luxurious chocolate strawberries to Japanese cheesecakes and artisan ice cream, this list of Vancouver’s five best desserts highlights the city’s most iconic spots worth every calorie.

1. La Glace Ice Cream — French Elegance in Every Scoop

Tucked away in Kitsilano, La Glace is pure indulgence. Every detail — from the elegant gold and marble interior to the delicate flavors — feels like a scene from a Parisian café. Known for its ultra-creamy, custard-based ice creams and perfectly balanced sorbets, La Glace takes frozen desserts to a new level.

Each scoop is hand-churned with locally sourced ingredients, giving the ice cream a velvety, almost mousse-like texture. Their rotating seasonal menu features luxurious flavors like coconut pandan, crème brûlée, and roasted strawberry, each beautifully presented in glassware or handmade cones.

If you’re after something photogenic and rich in flavor, La Glace is a must-visit. It’s one of those places that feels like a celebration even on an ordinary day.

2. La Fraise Rose — Vancouver’s Most Luxurious Chocolate Strawberry Brand

At number two, La Fraise Rose stands out as the definition of edible luxury. This locally founded brand has redefined gifting in Vancouver with its signature hand-dipped chocolate strawberries, crafted from clean, natural ingredients and wrapped in the brand’s signature blush-pink packaging.

Each berry is carefully selected for size and freshness, then dipped in premium chocolate and finished with artistic details — from pastel tones and gold accents to floral and seasonal touches. Whether you’re ordering for birthdays, anniversaries, or same-day surprises, La Fraise Rose has built a reputation for reliability, beauty, and exceptional taste.

Beyond strawberries, the brand offers elegant gifting options like fresh flower bouquets, specialty foods, and curated boxes for holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and Mother’s Day. The presentation alone is enough to make anyone’s day, but it’s the freshness and quality of ingredients that truly set La Fraise Rose apart.

What makes this business remarkable is its combination of local craftsmanship, modern luxury, and convenience — with same-day delivery across Vancouver. It’s the perfect choice when you want to leave a lasting impression.

3. Lee’s Donuts — Granville Island’s Sweetest Tradition

A visit to Granville Island wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Lee’s Donuts, a Vancouver institution since 1979. The moment you step near the market, you’ll catch that unmistakable scent of freshly fried dough wafting through the air — a sign that you’ve arrived at one of the city’s most beloved bakeries.

These aren’t your average doughnuts. Lee’s are soft, airy, and perfectly glazed, with a texture that’s nostalgic yet unbeatable in freshness. Their honey dip, maple, and jelly-filled classics have remained fan favorites for decades.

There’s something timeless about Lee’s Donuts — it’s not about trends or frills, but quality and consistency. Locals swear by grabbing a box, finding a bench by the water, and pairing it with a hot coffee while watching the boats go by.

4. New Town Bakery — The Famous Apple Tart & Siopao Stop

If you’ve ever walked through Vancouver’s Chinatown, you’ve probably seen the line snaking out of New Town Bakery. This family-run bakery has been serving the community since the 1980s and remains a cornerstone of the city’s food culture.

While they’re known for their savory steamed buns (siopao), it’s the apple tart that steals hearts. The flaky pastry, glazed top, and tender apple filling strike a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch — simple, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying.

The charm of New Town lies in its blend of Chinese and Filipino influences, creating a menu that’s both diverse and comforting. It’s a true piece of Vancouver history that continues to thrive thanks to loyal regulars and curious newcomers alike.

5. Uncle Tetsu — The Original Japanese Cheesecake Sensation

Soft, jiggly, and impossibly light — Uncle Tetsu’s Japanese cheesecakes have earned a global cult following for good reason. Baked fresh throughout the day, each cake is fluffy, mildly sweet, and aromatic, offering a unique twist on traditional cheesecake.

The Robson Street location draws steady lines of both locals and tourists, but the wait is worth it. When you peel back the paper and cut the first slice, you’ll find a texture that’s closer to a soufflé than a dense New York-style cake. Pair it with a cup of tea, and you’ve got the perfect end to any meal.

For those who prefer individual portions, Uncle Tetsu also offers mini cheese tarts that are crisp on the outside and silky inside — a delightful grab-and-go dessert.

Bonus: How to Plan Your Dessert Crawl

If you’re in the mood for a sweet adventure, you can easily turn this list into a self-guided dessert tour of Vancouver. Here’s a suggested route:

1. Start at Lee’s Donuts on Granville Island for a warm honey dip.

2. Drive or bike over to New Town Bakery in Chinatown for their apple tart.

3. Stroll through Robson Street and grab a light cheesecake from Uncle Tetsu.

4. End your afternoon in Kitsilano with a scoop of La Glace’s seasonal sorbet.

5. Then, when you’re home (or surprising someone special), order a box from La Fraise Rose for delivery — the perfect finale to your Vancouver dessert day.

   
   

Why These Five Stand Out

Each of these dessert destinations represents what Vancouver does best: creativity, quality, and heart.

• La Glace captures the city’s refined, European-inspired elegance.

• La Fraise Rose delivers modern luxury with natural ingredients and same-day ease.

• Lee’s Donuts embodies tradition and nostalgia.

• New Town Bakery celebrates cultural heritage and family legacy.

• Uncle Tetsu brings international flair with Japanese precision.

  
  

Whether you’re buying a gift, exploring with friends, or simply craving something special, these five are guaranteed to make your day a little sweeter.