Sweets Search: Vancouver’s Top Asian Desserts with Deanna Woo

With food playing a big part in our Asian culture, many of us are constantly searching for the next new “it” restaurant. But it can be hard to decide where to go.

Well, look no further — introducing our Resident Foodie: @deannawoo. Not only does she have a passion for food, the Vancouverite is known for her “funny” puns, her obsession over fried chicken, and her addiction to Earnest Ice Cream.

Since Deanna — a self-proclaimed sugar addict — has a sweet tooth, we asked for her go-to places when she has a hankering for Asian desserts.

Nanas (Kerrisdale)

“I go here for the matcha desserts! Everything is so rich and flavourful, and the parfaits are created with care. I love looking at all the layers. When eaten together layer by layer, the mesh of textures is amazing.”

Photo: Nana’s Green Tea

Usagi Sweets (Marpole)

“Recently opened, they serve the best mochi! They also have brownies and cookies, but my favourite has to be their mochi mochi. A matcha lovers paradise!”

Photo: Usagi Sweets

Passion 8 (3 locations – Vancouver, Hastings, Burquitlam)

“My go-to shaved ice is their tiramisu! It comes with a heaping tiramisu cake on top of the shaved ice, with layers of cheesecake throughout it. They also give you a shot of espresso to pour over the dessert!”

Photo: Passion 8 Dessert Cafe

Y&Y Dessert (Marpole)

“I love having this after a heavy meal — they have a variety of desserts but my favourite is the durian and mango with sago. A lot of people don’t like durian but as a fellow Singaporean, I love it!”

Photo: Y&Y Dessert

Peanuts (Richmond)

“This is an OG staple, and a delicious Asian treat. They have something called wheel cakes which consists of a little cake filled with either red bean, custard, peanut, or matcha.”

Photo: @domoiscraving

Excellent Tofu (Richmond)

“I love how comforting their tofu pudding is. You can get it unsweetened and add your own syrup or toppings to create your perfect Asian comfort dessert.”

Photo: @vanessa_chiang

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