Paradise for the frugal foodie
By Brittney MacDonald, Senior Columnist
With the advent of summer comes the long-awaited opening of the night markets. Due to their popularity, these bustling open-air markets are popping up everywhere. Night markets originated in Asia, are open late, and boast stalls full of goods, both edible and otherwise.
Two of the most well-known markets in the Lower Mainland happen to be in Richmond, practically right next to one another. The International Summer Night Market along Vulcan is one of the longest running night markets near Vancouver, but it got so large and popular a few years ago that it was split in two. Now the Richmond Night Market has gained popularity due to its close proximity to the Bridgeport SkyTrain station.
Both markets offer shopping, entertainment, and games galore—but everyone knows the best part of the night market is the food! Sporting stall after stall of carefully crafted street food, the night market is the frugal foodie’s paradise. That is, if you don’t mind standing to dine, or overcrowded picnic tables. The food is mostly different Asian cuisines, but for the less adventurous there are hot dogs and mini donuts.
If you have a picky eater or special dietary restrictions, there’s no problem. The countless stalls offer up plenty of different options, from various dishes featuring rice noodles and satay for that gluten-free friend, to miso soup and grilled scallion buns for your animal-friendly, vegetarian buddies. For that sweetie with a sweet tooth, you’ll want to swing by the many bubble tea stands, or maybe grab a box of hand-spun dragon beard candy. And for the tastefully adventurous, it would be hard to leave without trying the grilled squid tentacles or curried fish balls.
The only thing better than the unique and tasty food on offer is its price: the majority of the dishes are under $7. There’s a reason street food is a favourite among students! Both of Richmond’s popular night markets are open until fall, and they make a fantastic date night or an inexpensive and interesting night out with friends.
The Richmond Night Market has a $2.25 admission fee and is open Fridays and Saturdays from 7 p.m. until midnight, and on Sundays and statutory holidays from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. The International Summer Night Market has the same hours and is $2.