The difference between a decent meal and a memorable one can depend on many factors. Often, it’s the food—perhaps a dish that’s cooked just right, or one that uses a special ingredient. Other times, it’s particularly good service that strikes a chord, or unforgettable ambiance.

When Georgia Straight readers were asked on the Golden Plates ballot to recall a great meal they had eaten in a restaurant over the past year, many diners described certain dishes, while others recounted thoughtful service or unexpected perks. The majority of respondents, however, noted that memorable meals were ones that combined several elements.

“Very few restaurants hit all the spots: good atmosphere, capable service, reasonable prices, and great food; Les Faux Bourgeois does,” one reader said.

“Went to Siena Restaurant with my mother and everything came together perfectly—service, food, wine, prices, atmosphere. Loved every bit,” another person wrote.

Some readers noted that having consistently good experiences each time they dined at a certain restaurant was what made their experiences there so memorable.

“The best meal I had this year was at Campagnolo Roma,” a reader said. “Their food is consistently excellent, and the service there is great.”

Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie received similar praise. “Bao Bei is always outstanding—hands down, my favourite—delicious food, great ambiance, amazing cocktails, and impeccable service.”

Sometimes, just the right atmosphere helped make a restaurant experience stand out. One reader said that mood lighting and tableside service made a dinner date at Black + Blue feel extra romantic. Another person revealed that the unique blend of fine dining décor with a fun izakaya vibe at Minami restaurant left an impression. At the French Table in East Vancouver, the authentic experience provided by the French servers brought back fond memories for a couple of their honeymoon in Paris. For another reader, the opportunity to watch “hot men shuck a tray of fresh oysters” at the open bar at Rodney’s Oyster Bar was entertaining.

Some readers noted that being surprised by a restaurant was often what made a dining experience unforgettable.

“At Fable, I didn’t think I would like anything in the state of foam, but their Parmesan foam with duck meatballs changed it for me,” one reader said.

“The chef made a custom veggie meal during the Game and Mushroom Fest,”, a diner at Pied à Terre recalled. “It was amazing and thoughtful.”

Another reader said that complimentary appetizers sent to the table by the chef at Hidden Tasting Bar & Social Lounge made a couple’s anniversary dinner all the more special.

In several instances, knowledgeable and attentive staff helped elevate a restaurant meal.

“The best meal I had this year was at Miku,” one reader wrote. “Server picked everything and every recommendation was stellar.”

“The service at the Acorn was spotless and so was the restaurant,” another person said. “The servers knew each of the dishes served that night.”

“At Yaletown L’Antipasto, the server informed us where the main ingredients were sourced, the reason, and how it was prepared,” a reader wrote.

Of course, memorable restaurant experiences generally involve good grub, so many of the replies that the Straight received praised the food.

“At España, the tapas are amazing. Every dish was perfect, and the sherry list is divine,” said a reader.

“Every time I go to Nuba is better than the last,” wrote another. “I’m not a vegan but I can’t eat eggs or gluten, and they are perfect for that.”

“I had amazing scallops at Cardero’s”, one reader recalled. “It was really flavourful and cooked to perfection.”

“The family went to Edible Canada for brunch on Christmas Eve. The food was amazing! Anything cooked in duck fat works for me,” said another reader.

Of course, often the most memorable meals are those shared with special people.

“Any meal where there is good company, great food, and friendly and efficient staff is a good one,” one reader wrote.