Vancouver's legendary 24-hour vegetarian restaurant serving since 1968. Famous for miso gravy, nachos, and hippie atmosphere. Cash only.
The Naam on West 4th Avenue in Vancouver's Kitsilano neighbourhood has been serving vegetarian food 24 hours a day since 1968, making it one of the oldest continually operating vegetarian restaurants in Canada and a living relic of the counterculture era that shaped Kitsilano's character. The restaurant was established in the spirit of the neighbourhood's hippie and natural foods movement and has maintained that identity — relaxed, inclusive, and genuinely welcoming — throughout the decades of change around it. The menu is extensive by vegetarian standards, featuring grain bowls, nachos, stir-fries, sandwiches, and a wide selection of tofu and tempeh dishes. The Dragon Bowl — a combination of grains, vegetables, and miso gravy — is the most famous item and has been a staple of the menu for decades. The miso gravy itself is available as a topping and is one of the kitchen's most beloved preparations. The dining room has the warm, slightly worn atmosphere of a community institution: live music some evenings, mismatched furniture, and a clientele ranging from the neighbourhood's original residents to students, travellers, and a newer generation of plant-based diners.
Signature dishes
- Dragon Bowl — $16
- Naam Nachos — $14
Good to know
- Hours
- 24 hours daily
- Reservations
- Walk-in
Location
2724 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 1P9
49.2687, -123.1619 View on map
Highlights
- Vancouver's oldest vegetarian restaurant, operating continuously since 1968
- 24-hour operation — one of the few all-night dining options in Kitsilano
- The Dragon Bowl — grains and vegetables with house-made miso gravy — is a menu icon
- Live music evenings add to the community atmosphere
- Extensive vegetarian and vegan menu across all meal periods
Tips for visiting
- The Dragon Bowl is the essential order — it has defined the restaurant for decades
- The miso gravy can be added to almost any dish — ask the server about it
- Live music evenings (typically weekends) create a festive atmosphere; check the schedule in advance
- Late-night visits after midnight bring a distinct neighbourhood crowd and a more relaxed energy
- Cash is preferred though cards may be accepted — confirm when ordering
Accessibility
The Naam is at street level on West 4th Avenue in Kitsilano. The entrance involves a small step. The dining room has a mix of table sizes with moderate spacing. The space is manageable for most mobility situations but the older building has limitations. Accessible washroom provision may be limited.
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Frequently asked questions
How long has The Naam been open?
The Naam has operated continuously since 1968, making it one of the oldest vegetarian restaurants in Canada and a cultural landmark of Vancouver's Kitsilano neighbourhood.
Is The Naam truly open 24 hours?
Yes. The Naam operates around the clock, seven days a week, making it one of the few 24-hour restaurants in Kitsilano.
Is all of The Naam's menu vegetarian?
Yes. The Naam is an entirely vegetarian restaurant with extensive vegan options. No meat, poultry, or seafood is served.
What is the Dragon Bowl?
The Dragon Bowl is The Naam's signature dish — a combination of grains, vegetables, and the restaurant's celebrated house-made miso gravy. It has been on the menu for decades.
Does The Naam have live music?
Yes, live music is performed on some evenings, typically on weekends. The schedule varies; checking ahead is advisable if attending specifically for music.