That's funny, I just wrote a lengthy post on Robson on my
blog where I talk about the different segments of Robson, and how you can't really just paint it all with the same colour.
I even made my own
map!
I find that Robson actually has some great restaurants, especially if you're seeking izakaya (ie: Guu with Garlic, Hapa Izakaya, Gyoza King). At Robson/Denman is a great tapas restaurant, Tapas Tree. And I've always had good meals at Zin.
Sure the section between Burrard and Bute is touristy crap and home to the city's chain restaurants, but then you also have places like CinCin and Tropika up there, which are great.
BTW - I love the vibe of the West End and I love the eateries on Denman, but when I'm looking for good food, I rarely ever venture to Davie unless I'm seeking Lolita's. The majority of what I've had on Davie has been just "meh". I haven't been to Brasserie yet and lining up for cheap Greek food is not my thing.