I recently spent a week test driving the 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport around metro Vancouver.

The dining scene across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley is shaped by its deep regional roots and rich international influences. From farm-to-table artisanal creameries in the valley to vibrant street-food spots and cozy pasta bars downtown, this curated tour highlights nine culinary destinations across the lower mainland.

Started the week with lunch at Red Wasabi which is in the Yaletown neighbourhood. Situated along Davie Street, Red Wasabi offers a quiet, reliable haven for fresh sushi, sashimi, and classic Japanese comfort dishes. It’s a staple for both quick lunch combos and relaxed evening rolls. I had some of their fish inari and miso soup.

I drove the financial district and stopped in at NaMì Vietnamese that brings elevated Saigon street food to urban diners. Known for crisp, freshly baked baguettes and aromatic marinades, it balances speed with authentic flavor.It was a hot day and I enjoyed their frozen Vietnamese coffee.

After walking around the area, I drove to English Bay and had an early dinner at Taqueria Jalisco known for bringing bold regional Mexican flavors to Denman Street, Taqueria Jalisco serves up authentic street tacos, rich stews, and traditional specialties. I had their tasty Golden chicken tacos and mango slushie.

The 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport has officially arrived, and it’s a big deal. For the first time, Honda is bringing its “rugged” trim to the CR-V lineup, pairing off-road aesthetics with the efficiency of their award-winning hybrid powertrain.

Here is everything you need to know about the most adventurous CR-V yet.

It is built exclusively on Honda’s 4th-generation two-motor hybrid system.

• Horsepower: 204 hp (combined)
• Torque: 247 lb-ft
• Drivetrain: Standard Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control

The next day I drove to the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood to Emeri, a modern addition to Main Street, Emeri is a dedicated matcha bar that celebrates ceremonial-grade tea and creative soft serve. Built around simplicity and precision, it’s the ideal spot for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. I had their signature matcha soft serve cone.

As I was downtown one night, I visited Jerusalem Shawarma on Robson Street, whichis renowned for massive portions, deeply spiced meats roasted on vertical spits, and authentic Middle Eastern hospitality. It has quickly become a go-to spot for late-night cravings and hearty lunch plates.

I had the grilled chicken plate which came with all the accompaniments.

Richmond Country Farms has been my go to spot for many years for fresh local vegetables and fruits. I took a drive out to this spot that has beenoperating for decades along Steveston Highway. Richmond Country Farms is a sprawling agricultural landmark. Beyond its massive farm market packed with local produce, the estate features Country Vines Winery, seasonal pumpkin patches, and summer sunflower festivals.

We had dinner that night in the West Point Grey neighbourhood at Sip Song Thai which brings regional Thai home cooking to the West Side. The kitchen balances fragrant herbs, fiery chilies, and complex curries that go well beyond standard takeaway fair. My favourites of the dishes we tried was the tasty Chicken Wings and Red curry chicken.

The next day I drove to Maple Ridge and as I was in the area I stopped by one of the best cheese farms around. Golden Ears Cheesecrafters crafts artisanal farmstead cheeses using local Jersey milk. The property includes a boutique country store, a cozy bistro serving farm-fresh lunches, and a covered patio overlooking the fields. Known for their fresh hand-stretched cheddar cheese curds, gouda wheel wedges, and a warm cheese-centric lunch from the farm kitchen. I picked up some of the Charmisan to take home.

Ended the week by celebrating some birthdays over dinner at Giusti in Mount Pleasant. Giusti delivers standard-setting, house-made pastas and hyper-seasonal small plates. The kitchen focuses heavily on local market produce paired with warm, unpretentious hospitality. I loved the Corzetti Stampati, we also had several other dishes.

Inside, the 2026 refresh brings major upgrades across the entire CR-V line, and the TrailSport gets the best of them.

• The Screens: You get a standard 9-inch HD touchscreen and a massive 10.2-inch digital driver display.
• The Comforts: Look for TrailSport-exclusive orange contrast stitching and embossed logos on the seats. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger are all standard.
• Safety: The full Honda Sensing® suite is included, featuring Traffic Jam Assist and a Blind Spot Information system.

The Honda CR-V Trailsport is for the driver who wants the reliability and fuel savings.

It’s stylish, surprisingly capable, and—most importantly—ready for your next detour.

By: Richard Wolak

Disclosure: Honda Canada provided me with the  2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport for a week to test drive, and photograph.