Ask a Local: Stephanie Ip’s Favourite Eats

What’s your profession?

I am a reporter and assistant editor with The Province newspaper.

What area of Richmond did you grow up in?

I grew up in central Richmond, close to Lansdowne and Garden City.

What family spots are your go-tos? 

My mom’s favourite type of food is Shanghai so when we get the family together, we often go to Shanghai House Restaurant (6340 No. 3 Rd.). We also love going to Ninkazu Japanese Restaurant (4231 Hazelbridge Way) for their late-night all-you-can-eat special.

Dynamite Roll and Tomokazu Spicy Roll at Ninkazu.

What are some of your favourite dishes around town?

I love, love, love the fish ‘n chips at Pajo’s in Steveston (two locations). Cod, halibut, whatever—anything from Pajo’s is awesome, with a massive side of fries.

The fish ‘n chips at Pajo’s in Steveston.

Is there anywhere you’re dying to go but haven’t visited yet?

Rocanini Coffee Roasters in Steveston has been open for some time and I still haven’t been able to go—but I hear good things!

Inside Rocanini Coffee Roasters in Steveston.

Best date-night spot?

I think any of the fish ‘n chips places in Steveston would make for a great date night stop. Even better if you head down the street for ice cream at Timothy’s afterward. The Grille restaurant at Country Meadows Golf Course (8482 No. 6 Rd.) is also a beautiful place for a fancier date night. And if the weather’s nice, you can even sit outside on the patio and lounge while golfers head in and out of the club.

The view from The Grille at Country Meadows Golf Course. | Photo: Tara Lee

Where would you take a friend visiting Richmond from out of town?

I would definitely start with breakfast or brunch at the IHOP on No. 3 Road because why wouldn’t you?

A glimpse of the IHOP menu.

Top three dim sum picks?

My top three dim sum dishes are, in no particular order, siu mai (pork), daan taat (egg tarts), and har gow (shrimp dumplings). These are classic dishes that almost every dim sum place will serve, but my go-to is Neptune Restaurant (8171 Ackroyd Rd.).

Egg tarts at Sun Century Cafe.

Best local secret?

My favourite hidden gem Richmond restaurant is L.A. Grill (8100 No. 2 Road). The service is always fantastic and it is probably the most affordable restaurant meal you could have. Their dishes range from $4 up to $16 and everything is delicious.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Richmond? 

My favourite thing to do in Richmond during the summer is always a visit to Steveston Village, complete with Pajo’s and ice cream. In the winter time, it’s always fun to go skating at Minoru Arena with friends. It just reminds me of being a teenager again, growing up in Richmond.