The ever-evolving Restaurant Graveyard series looks back at the countless, long-shuttered establishments that helped to propel Vancouver’s food and drink forward. Full A-Z with maps and photos here. May they never be forgotten!
This popular California-Mexican restaurant at 2904 West 4th Ave. was much loved over the course of its 40-year run for its casual atmosphere, generous portions, and indifference to trends. Launched by a family of American ex-pats that missed the food of their native Los Angeles, Topanga Cafe was a rare, irreplaceable institution with its gallery of crayon-drawn menus covering the walls and its signature bright green guacamole-sour cream topping so many of its dishes. House favourites included darkly-sauced enchiladas (pictured above) and massive slices of super dense chocolate cake. Sadly, the restaurant burned to the ground in an accidental fire – likely caused by a discarded cigarette – in the summer of 2018.
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I raised my daughter, in this neighbourhood and the nachos supreme was our fave dish. Later when she dated, she would bring her new boy to dine here. We lived just behind and witnessed the huge fire that destroyed our favourite cafe, so sad. We still talk about it and miss the food and colouring with crayons as we waited for our nachos to arrive at our table!