"Just 25 minutes in either direction from downtown Vancouver and the U.S. border lies Richmond, where 65 percent of residents can claim minority status and almost half have Chinese heritage. It makes sense, then, that the town is also home to 4 Stones Vegetarian, a renowned restaurant specializing in Taiwanese cuisine, from spicy sesame vegetables to fried bean curd rolls in kung pao sauce. While 4 Stones serves mock meat, the best dishes are full of fresh, deftly handled vegetables—don’t miss the vegan gyoza, deep-fried curried broccoli, and stir-fried bitter melon with oolong tea. The simple decor and casual service may give some diners pause, but know that many vegans and vegetarians consider the scrumptious, plant-based fare among North America’s best Chinese food. Make a reservation for parties of five or more."