Details

Lila

Neighbourhood: Main Street

3941 Main St

604-620-3256

WEBSITE

Hours

Monday – Friday: 4-10pm
Saturday / Sunday: 12-10pm

Gallery

The People

Shira Blustein – Co-founder / GM
Meeru Dhalwala – Co-founder / Chef
Scott Lewis – Co-founder

About Lila

Nestled in the vibrant Mount Pleasant neighborhood of Vancouver, Lila is a modern Indian restaurant that’s quickly capturing the hearts of food lovers and casual diners alike. Helmed by Chef Meeru Dhalwala — celebrated for her groundbreaking work at Vij’s and Rangoli — Lila is not just a dining spot but a sensory experience. The culinary journey at Lila is shaped by Dhalwala’s contemporary approach to Indian flavors, with a menu focused on small plates that emphasize shared experiences and approachable, bold flavors. Partnering in this venture is Shira Blustein, founder of Vancouver’s acclaimed vegetarian restaurant The Acorn. Her influence can be seen in Lila’s gracious, hospitality-forward service, and she brings with her a philosophy rooted in inclusivity and comfort that aims to make every guest feel welcome.

A Space Designed for Connection
Stepping into Lila, guests find themselves in a warm and inviting atmosphere characterized by lush vegetation and a sense of understated elegance. The interior’s design elements draw from Mount Pleasant’s urban aesthetic, paired with a secret garden patio, accessible in the summer months. The layout fosters a communal dining experience that encourages patrons to relax, explore the menu, and connect with each other. Lila was intentionally crafted as a barrier-free space, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. This commitment to inclusivity extends to the staff and service style, which is gracious, mindful, and always ready to accommodate any questions about the dishes or ingredients, ensuring guests feel completely at ease.

The Menu: Modern Indian Small Plates
At Lila, the focus is on small plates that redefine the Indian dining experience by presenting traditional flavors in new and approachable ways. Chef Dhalwala’s menu draws on her deep knowledge of Indian cuisine but also incorporates contemporary twists that surprise and delight the palate. This fresh approach to Indian food offers diners a chance to sample a variety of dishes, with options designed to appeal to both longtime fans of Indian flavors and those new to the cuisine. Guests can expect an interplay of spices, textures, and flavors that pay homage to Indian culinary traditions while allowing space for innovation and playfulness.

Cocktails and Happy Hour
Lila is a destination for both evening gatherings and vibrant happy hour sessions. The restaurant’s daily happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm, where diners can enjoy a selection of curated drinks and small bites at approachable prices. With the help of Vancouver’s mixology scene, Lila offers a selection of signature cocktails that pair harmoniously with the menu, enhancing the dining experience while also celebrating local ingredients and influences. On weekends, Lila opens for lunch service starting at noon, giving guests another opportunity to sample the menu’s delights earlier in the day.

A Mindful and Welcoming Service
Lila’s service ethos centers on making everyone feel at home. Blustein, a respected figure in Vancouver’s dining scene for her hospitality expertise, has cultivated a service style that’s attentive, kind, and welcoming. The team at Lila values guests’ comfort above all, ensuring they feel comfortable asking about each dish’s composition or seeking recommendations on what to order. This thoughtful approach to hospitality makes Lila a rare gem where the staff’s mindfulness matches the quality of the food.

Private Functions and Celebrations
In addition to its regular service, Lila offers private functions that can accommodate up to 45 guests indoors and up to 70 with the back patio, which is available during the summer months. These private events come with customized menu options and attentive service, providing a unique setting for everything from intimate family gatherings to business events. The private booking options make Lila a top choice for anyone looking to host a memorable event in Vancouver.

Reservations and Walk-ins
Lila’s popularity makes reservations a smart choice, especially during peak hours, and bookings are conveniently managed through OpenTable. The restaurant also welcomes walk-ins, offering flexibility for those who might decide to visit spontaneously. This inclusive approach makes Lila accessible to both planners and spur-of-the-moment diners, enhancing its appeal within Vancouver’s diverse dining scene.

A Lively and Playful Vibe
The ambiance at Lila is lively, playful, and intentionally considered. This is not a formal dining experience but rather a space that encourages patrons to unwind, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. Whether it’s a casual happy hour gathering or a special dinner occasion, Lila’s vibe is conducive to building connections over food and drink.

Lila is not only a new addition to Mount Pleasant’s restaurant landscape; it’s an experience that invites guests to discover Indian flavors in a fresh, approachable way. Here, the intersection of modern Indian cuisine, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes every visit memorable. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Vancouver, a meal at Lila is bound to be a delicious, vibrant, and memorable experience.