With its picturesque views of the North Shore Mountains and buzzing community atmosphere, Burnaby Heights has become a popular destination for families looking to plant roots. Spend the day with us as we explore this neighbourhood’s independent restaurants and airy outdoor spaces.
1. Cioffi’s Meat Market & Deli
Cioffi’s is a beloved family-owned institution known for its broad selection of meats, cheeses, antipasti, and Italian pantry staples like pasta, olive oil, and baking essentials. Build the antipasti platter of your dreams with artisanal sausages and freshly imported burrata, or purchase a curated gift basket to bring to your next dinner party.
2. Sopra Sotto
Sopra Sotto’s Burnaby Heights location is described as the “little sister” of its Commercial Drive flagship. Although smaller in scale, this cozy Italian restaurant retains the same appeal. Grab a spot at the bar so that you can watch the pizza makers in action as you sip on an Aperol Spritz, or grab a table by the window where you can order a family-style spread of antipasti, pasta, pizza, and maybe even some tiramisu. Those with dietary preferences will also be thrilled to learn that this restaurant can do gluten-free pizza and pasta with vegan mozzarella.
3. Chez Christophe
Pick up a cappuccino and a flaky croissant on your morning coffee run, or order a stunning cake for your next celebration from Chez Christophe. This French patisserie and chocolaterie is known for its custom chocolate bars made from Christophe's signature blend of cocoa beans and Croissant Cube. These perfectly square croissants boast a satisfying contrast between their flaky exteriors and buttery inside, made even more delicious from whatever filling the chef has piped into them that morning. 
4. Glenburn Soda Fountain
Glenburn Soda Fountain opened in 2013, but it feels like it’s been around for decades. With its retro interior design and a menu to match, this soda fountain transports guests to a simpler time, filled with rootbeer floats, ice cream sundaes and frozen malt. Pick up a bottle of Glenburn’s homemade hot fudge sauce to recreate its magic from the comfort of your own home.
5. The Gray Olive Cafeteria
The Gray Olive Cafeteria serves comfort food on classic metal cafeteria trays in an inviting, fast-casual atmosphere. Classic brunch staples like eggs benedict and savoury hash earn top spots on the menu, but the breakfast sandwich should be on your list of things to try. Whatever you do, be sure to order a pancake on the side. 
6. Confederation Park
With amenities like sports fields, a hiking trail, an expansive playground, and a model steam train that you can ride on a 3 KM loop, Confederation Park is a true community hub where you could easily spend an entire day. Pack a picnic— perhaps with some sandwiches from Cioffi’s— and head to the outdoor tables for an al fresco lunch before you head out for an afternoon of activity. Dogs can come, too, as there is an off-leash area to socialize with their peers. 
Burnaby Heights weaves a rich tapestry of Italian heritage, authentic community, and modern development. It has maintained its charm along its journey to becoming a vibrant destination for young people and growing families looking to purchase homes outside the city while still living close to Downtown Vancouver. Contact a rennie advisor today to learn more about living in Burnaby Heights.
