If summer in Vancouver had a signature scent, it might just be saffron, garlic, and seafood simmering in a giant paella pan.
Good news: the iconic Paella Patio Series at ¿CóMO? Taperia is officially back for its sixth year—bringing one of the city’s most delicious outdoor traditions to Mount Pleasant once again.
Kicking off May 24, this much-loved series runs across eight dates through September, turning Como’s patio into a lively, sun-soaked gathering place where guests can sip, snack, and watch paella come to life in real time.
A summer ritual worth planning for
What started as a simple way to bring people together outdoors has evolved into a full-on seasonal ritual.
“There’s nothing quite like fresh paella from the pan on a summer’s day, paired with a glass of beer, sangria, or cava,” says co-owner Shaun Layton.
He’s not wrong. The experience is as much about the atmosphere as it is the food—think golden-hour seating, clinking glasses, and the unmistakable theatre of a 60-person steel pan bubbling away just steps from your table.
What to expect
Each ticket ($28++) includes a generous serving of Paella Guys’ signature Paella Mixta—made fresh on-site with chicken, shrimp, jumbo prawns, peppers, mushrooms, saffron, and more, finished with housemade garlic aioli.
From there, it’s all about building your perfect afternoon. Guests can order additional tapas, conservas, and drinks from Como’s regular menu—now featuring new seasonal dishes like crispy torreznos with quince pepper relish, calamar a la plancha with eggplant romesco, and aburi-style tuna toast.
And yes, you’ll want something bubbly on the side.
Mark your calendar
This year’s Paella Patio Series dates are:
- May 24
- June 7
- June 21 (Father’s Day)
- July 12
- July 26
- August 9
- August 23
- September 6 (Labour Day weekend)
With three seatings per day (12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m.), it’s the perfect excuse to gather your favourite people and make an afternoon of it.
More than just a meal
Part of the magic? It’s not just the guests who get drawn in.
“People just love watching the paella-making process,” Layton adds. “It’s interactive, it smells incredible, and it brings such great energy to the patio.”
Translation: expect passersby to stop, stare, and seriously consider joining you.
Tickets are available now—and if past years are any indication, they won’t last long.
Consider this your official sign to book your spot (and your summer plans) early. —Noa Nichol
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April 29th, 2026 at 4:24 am
Summer patio season really is doing the most right now – paella, sunshine, and long-table vibes feels like exactly the kind of ritual Vancouver does best. Also love how food culture like this travels and connects different places and traditions. For anyone into seasonal dining inspiration beyond Vancouver, there are some interesting Saturday specials and food ideas worth browsing here https://restaurants-in-cape-town.co.za/saturday-specials/ always cool to see how different cities build their own weekend food rituals.