Erik Standaert

Google review

East is East is hands-down one of the most unique and soulful dining experiences you’ll find in the city. From the moment you walk in, you’re enveloped by the cozy, bohemian vibe—dim lighting, live music, and aromatic spices drifting from the kitchen. The décor and ambiance transport you somewhere between Istanbul and Kathmandu. I highly recommend the “Chai Feast”—a rotating selection of dishes from across the Silk Road served tapas-style. Every bite is rich, layered, and made with love. Personal standouts: the Afghan eggplant, lamb kebabs, and the mango butternut squash stew. And don’t miss their house chai—refillable, spiced to perfection, and served with a smile. The staff are warm and knowledgeable, and the entire experience feels like you’re a guest in someone’s beautifully curated home. Whether you’re a meat-eater, vegan, or gluten-free, there’s something flavorful and nourishing here for you. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a cultural experience. Perfect for date night, out-of-town visitors, or when you just need a warm soul-hug in the form of food.

Justin Malhi

Google review

A lot of gluten free options, pricey but the food is very solid. Waitress was kind and the vibe was lovely!

Yurii Chukhlatyi

Google review

Gluten free base pizza felt like it was served on a cracker. Other than that it’s a very lovely place with good atmosphere.

Jihan Mansour

Google review

I visited Vancouver from Ontario in May and chose Tayybeh to try some authentic Middle Eastern food. This restaurant is a MUST TRY!!! From the moment we walked in we were immersed in the Arabic culture from the music to decor and atmosphere. We ordered Turkish coffee to start from our pleasant server, and then enjoyed a variety of appetizers that were fresh, delicious and filling as we ordered some of our childhood favourites (foul, fetteh, kebbi and rice pudding among other selections). My brother is gluten free-and almost anything could be prepared without gluten. I was immediately reminded of sitting around my kitchen table enjoying a family home cooked meal. There is a beautiful story behind the evolution of this business and you can not leave without a delicious meal and the knowledge that you are helping displaced women from Syria find employment and who are supporting their families still in Syria and treating us to authentic Middle Eastern food while establishing a sense of community for themselves together in Canada. Clearly I can not say enough so I recommend that others try for themselves!