If you are looking for lunch that burns (in a good way) you need to check out Rice 'N Spice in Royal Centre at Georgia and Burrard. Located on the food court level this place always has a line up of about twenty people or more. Clearly this is one hot spot and the food lives up to the popularity, even though this place is hard to find online.

This curry bar features nearly everything under the sun. A daily special for each day of the week has my personal favourite, chicken masala, featured on Wednesdays. On other days I opt for the chicken curry or if I've got a craving for sweet foods I'll go for the chilli chicken. The standard dish comes with two veggie options as well, and usually there are at least six to choose from. So you can get some dal (the lentil dish) and some chick peas (as seen here) or you can get some cabbage, mixed vegetables and even some potatoes if the rice or noodle option is not enough starch to keep you happy.

About six months ago the Spice added a butter chicken option to the menu. I've never been a huge fan of butter chicken but it's a good enough dish if that's what your into. I tried it by accident once as one of my colleagues ordered ahead of me and they assumed that I wanted the same. It was okay, but I prefer rich flavourful dishes and damn the consequences if it hurts me later.

The portions at this place are enough to fill you up and then some. Whether you order a "half" or "full" size is of no concern, there is a lot of food either way.

You will probably want a nap and a breath mint after this meal so if you've got an important client meeting in your afternoon this might not be the place. Just don't say I didn't warn you if you get addicted to this food.

Rice 'N Spice Restaurant
218-1055 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 3P1

604 683 3143

Photo: Ryan Weal