Places to eat (my favourites):
Sushi: there are hundreds of sushi place in Vancouver. On Robson, try Miko sushi and try the Magurai (tuna in hot mustard suace). If you want to go high end try Tojos.
Dim Sum: Downtown try Imperial for great seafood dimsum and a great view.
Indian: nuvo Indian is at Vig's on 11th and Granville. Vikrim, the owner, makes the place. There are not too many good Indian places downtown but there are many great places on the east side and Boradway corridor. A new place in Burnaby call Bombay Bheli is very good. Other good ones include: Rubina on Kingsway, Akbar's Own on Broadway and Tanoori King on Fraser.
Downtown (general): I love the smoked Cod dish at Cincin. Joe Forte has a great warm seafood salad.
Thai: Salathai (??) on Cambie is very good.
Pizza: Marcello's on Commercial. They serve a great Pilsner to boot.
Best Coffee: Senses on Georgia and Artigiano on Hornby and another one on Pender St.
Memorable dinner (high end): Lumiere. Try the tasting menu with the matched wines.
Other great places: Peachtree (small intimate rest in Burnaby), Provence Grill on 10th Ave. and another one in Yaletown.
Things to do:
Grouse grind. It is closed now but try to sneak in and be prepared for a great workwout and one of the best views in the city. Have a beer in the bar after the hike.
Stanley Park: walk, run, roller blade or bike around Stanley Park (about 10K). Try to get in have a pint at the Rowing Club.
Mount Seymour demonstarion forest is worth a day.
Kits Beach: grab a coffee and sit on a log at Kits beach.
Golf: most of the golf courses are still open in January.
Ski: try the local mountains before going out to Whistler. You can get to three local mountains that are within 15 minute drive from downtown.