I like to consider myself a bit of a Cioppino buff. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this delicious meal I refer you to Wikipedia…
Cioppino is a fish stew originating in San Francisco. Despite being considered an Italian dish, it is unknown in Italy, and it is only slightly comparable with various regional fish soups and stews of Italian cuisine. Cioppino is traditionally made from the catch of the day, which in the dish's place of origin is typically a combination of dungeness crab, clams, shrimp, scallops, squid, mussels and fish. The seafood is then combined with fresh tomatoes in a wine sauce, and served with toasted bread, either sourdough or baguette.
On a tip I heard the Cioppino at Brioche in Gastown was the best in the city, after trying it I would have a hard time disagreeing. Brioche is a cozy café type establishment located in the heart of Gastown. No wasted frills here, order from the till, have a seat, wait for the feast to arrive. I can’t remember the exact cost, but it was roughly $30 for a massive seafood banquet for 2. If you are looking for a great date spot for lunch I wouldn’t hesitate with Brioche!