This Scout series maps out Vancouver’s best and most legendary comfort foods. We encourage readers to steer us towards their favourites in the comments or by using the hashtag #ScoutYVR on social media.

You can find delicious iterations of traditional gambas al ajillo – or shrimp with garlic – at many Spanish-themed restaurants around town. Like patatas bravas and albondigas, it’s a ubiquitous, not-at-all fancy standard that’s easy to share. The one at Gastown’s tiny Sardine Can is an exemplar that’s great with a cold, crisp glass of beer or sips of Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a simple thing to execute, even for the novice cook. The shrimp are flash-seared in spiced olive oil with garlic, sherry, plenty of paprika and a parsley/lemon finish. Don’t neglect the leftover sauce at the bottom of the dish. Get some crusty bread and go to town.

EXPLORE THE COMFORT FOOD GUIDE

The Sardine Can

Neighbourhood: Gastown

26 Powell St. (Closed) | 604-568-1350 | WEBSITE

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