Crab Hot Lau Expands with New Franchise at UBC in 2025

Vancouver, BC – Renowned for its authentic Northern Vietnamese cuisine, Crab Hot Lau, under the leadership of Chef Cherry Pham, is set to open a second franchise location at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 2025. The original establishment, located at 2141 Kingsway, has garnered accolades, including 'Best Vietnamese' at the Vancouver Magazine Restaurant Awards in both 2024 and 2025.

Chef Pham announced the upcoming opening, describing it as a 'smart franchise' which will allow her to maintain control over the recipes, operations, and overall quality that define Crab Hot Lau. 'It’s a soul, passed on with care,' Pham stated, emphasizing her commitment to preserving the authenticity of Vietnamese cooking. The franchise will be operated by a dedicated Chinese family who share Pham's vision for delivering genuine Vietnamese dishes. Pham will personally oversee training and ensure that the new location adheres to the standards established at the original restaurant.

The new restaurant is set to occupy the space at 2192 Western Parkway, previously home to another Vietnamese establishment, Pho With Us. This strategic location is anticipated to attract both students and faculty, further embedding Crab Hot Lau within the vibrant community of UBC.

Known for its unique offerings such as square crab spring rolls (Nem Cua Bien) and a variety of seafood noodle soups, Crab Hot Lau stands out in a competitive market by providing dishes that are often hard to find at other local Vietnamese restaurants. The establishment's commitment to quality is showcased through visual displays inside the Kingsway location, where customers can witness the meticulous preparation of the spring rolls.

The announcement comes at a time when the Vietnamese culinary scene in Vancouver is thriving, with increasing interest in authentic international cuisines. According to a report by the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA), the ethnic food segment has seen a steady growth of approximately 10% annually over the past five years.

The UBC location aims to replicate the success of its predecessor while catering to the unique preferences of the university demographic. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, Chef Pham's venture is poised to become a staple for students and visitors alike.

Anticipation builds as the official opening date approaches, with many in the community eager to experience the flavors that Crab Hot Lau has to offer. As the franchise expands, it brings with it the promise of not only culinary delight but also a cultural connection to Vietnam through its food, reinforcing Vancouver’s reputation as a multicultural gastronomical hub.