The 37 best omakase experiences in Vancouver

Not worth the hype firstly I had high expectations for Masayoshi, especially given its 1-star Michelin status, but this was one of the most mediocre omakase experiences I’ve had in years. While the service was solid, the quality and execution of the dishes left a lot to be desired. For the price, I expected far more creativity, flavor, and refinement. If you’re looking for a memorable omakase, you’re better off at Sushi Hil (better quality at half the price), Yaletown Okeya, or even Mahana in North Vancouver. I dine on omakase at least twice a month, and this experience just didn’t meet the standard.

Both the food and the atmosphere at this establishment left me with the same impression: refined, but ultimately a touch bland. The ingredients were of high quality and each dish was executed with care - yes, it was delicious. But for the price point, I found myself craving a bit more risk, a bit more personality. It’s as though the kitchen, like the space itself, played things just a little too safe. That said, the service was warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. A polished experience, though one that could benefit from a bolder point of view.

We had an overall enjoyable experience here, thanks to the kind and attentive staff, including the chef himself. The select dishes served by the chef, including the five appetizers at the start, were excellent. I loved the uni dish and toro. The Masayoshi house sake stood out as my favorite as well —it was incredibly smooth and delightful. However, as a Michelin-starred restaurant, there are significant areas for improvement: 1. Reservation Timing: We had an 8:30 PM reservation, but the previous seating didn’t finish until 8:45. This delay was not an ideal start to a dinner that lasted until 11 PM. Better coordination is needed to avoid such waits. 2. Portion Sizes: While the sushi and appetizers were flavorful, the portions were underwhelming. We left still feeling hungry after a nearly $500 meal. We actually had to stop by at the hotel bar to have more food. Compared to other top-tier omakase experiences globally, the sushi pieces were notably smaller, with disappointingly thinner slices of fish. I feel they won't lose much profit even if they increase the quantity by 30-40%. 3. The system: The chef frequently left the bar to prepare dishes and manage staff, which disrupted the flow of the meal. This gave the impression of a lack of coordination. The system should be refined so the chef can stay focused on the dining experience without interruptions. Despite these critiques, it was still a great experience. Given the restaurant’s Michelin recognition, I hope this constructive feedback helps them enhance their offerings and provide even greater joy to their customers.

Had a great dinner. Food tasted great. Some of the flavours seemed a bit experimental, but they worked well. Ingredients were fresh. Service was amazing, the staff were super attentive. They even made a little custom wooden tag for my wife and I when they found out it was our anniversary. If we lived in Vancouver, we would definitely come back.

It was the best sushi I had ever had but for the price, it kinda should. It was a bit cold there and I didn't quite like the atmosphere.

I remember when I visited Masayoshi in 2022, pre-Michelin star, I was blown away by the quality of the ingredients and the creativity of the preparation. Two years later, I decided to take my best friend, and I’m sad to say that it did not meet my expectations. I’ve had omakase in Vancouver, NYC, and Japan, both Michelin and non-Michelin. Masayoshi used to be my favourite. The main points I find lacking for an omakase of this price point and calibre, both general and not: 1) the amount of imported seafood from Japan was quite lacking this time. They mostly stuck to local, and it wasn’t impressive. 2) many of the appetizers’ flavours felt similar and blended together. None were very memorable, and quite bland compared to my previous experience here. 3) there was too much cooked fish in the appetizers compared to before. While some may prefer this, I’m here for the freshest fish presented in the freshest way — raw. 4) I love chutoro. Today, my chutoro was stringy and hard to chew through. What I consider both a miss in terms of quality and expertise. 5) My reservation was at 8:30, we arrived on time, but we did not start until 8:50. I think punctuality is a sign of appreciation and professionalism, and customers definitely deserve at least that. My favorite nigiris were hotate, aji, and hirame. They were all paired with seasoning that were chosen well to elevate the flavour of the fish. Of course bafun uni never misses. Also loved the nodoguro hand roll, took me back to Kanazawa. Anyways, I do hope the “wow” factor of Masayoshi returns soon!

The ingredients used were fresh and of good quality, which I appreciated. However, the dishes themselves lacked creativity and refinement compared to other Michelin one-star restaurants While nothing was particularly bad, nothing really stood out either. the flavors and presentation felt quite standard for an average omakase. Considering the restaurant’s Michelin status, I expected a bit more originality. If this were a more moderately priced omakase, I would say it’s a nice spot to enjoy good ingredients and a pleasant evening. But in terms of meeting the standards of other Michelin one-star restaurants in Vancouver, I don’t think it quite reaches that level. All my friends agree that it is quite overrated.

Came here for my wife's birthday. We enjoyed the experience immensely. The ambiance and atmosphere of the restaurant was very relaxing with soft instrumental music and knives elegantly displayed. The moment you enter, you are welcomed by the smell of seafood which for someone who grew up around seafood is such a welcoming scent. Once everything started, we started receiving the pieces one by one. Each one tasting fresh and delicious. The anago was our favourite but the tamago (no photo) was amazing as well. For dessert, we got the matcha tiramisu which was excellent. I highly recommend this if you want to have an authentic omakase experience in Vancouver. It's definitely not a restaurant I will go to regularly but during special occasions it's worth the price.

Had a wonderful experience at Sushi Bar Maumi. I was running late for my reservation due to traffic and felt bad, but the staff was very understanding since I called ahead to let them know. The quality of the fish was excellent, and even with just one chef serving 17 guests, the pace of the meal was surprisingly smooth. I also appreciated that they offered a menu for ordering additional nigiri—not just repeats of what was already served in the omakase, which is rare at similar spots.

Relatively cheap for Vancouver omakase at $135 (others go up to 200-300). It is slow since it’s one chef to 13 people but personally I find that preferable to 1 on 1 with a chef who watches you eat, and it is part of the reason why it’s cheaper. We were full after the 13 set meal. The sake pairing is ok but all 3 sakes kinda tasted the same to me. The environment is calm and they have heated seats and a bidet in the bathroom.

Very good experience! The food was delicious, and I really appreciated how they took care of each customer. I also loved the chef’s passion and dedication to every dish—it truly shows in the flavors.

Husband and wife duo run omakase. Edomae style sushi and specially curated selection of sake from Japan. I recommend arriving a little earlier and seating is first come first serve. Good value considering the quality of food you are getting.

Update at new location on Robson - the number of seats are double with still only one chef. The wait time between nigiri is too long and the quality of food is no longer as good as before. Great quality of sushi - happy that they can maintain the same fresh quality as before COVID. An hour long dinning experience - if you are looking for a place to chat this might not be the place though.

One of my favorite omakase places in Vancouver! Each piece of nigiri served is like an art piece. All very yummy and high quality. Chef is a bit more cold, and not very interactive but don’t let that distract you as he is probably focusing on serving you the best piece of nigiri.

I had the most incredible dining experience here. The tasting menu is truly authentic Japanese cuisine — every course was beautifully presented and thoughtfully balanced. From the delicate sashimi to the seasonal hot dishes, each bite highlighted the chef’s skill and respect for ingredients. The service was warm, attentive, and never rushed, allowing us to enjoy the full progression of flavors at a perfect pace. The atmosphere is intimate yet welcoming, making it ideal for both a special occasion and an evening of discovery. Highly recommend if you’re looking for an authentic Japanese tasting experience that goes far beyond the usual sushi spot.

Excellent restaurant with a perfect service. I had the tasting menu which is good and led you to a nice discovery to all what they are doing. You may end up a bit hungry and I needed to order something else. Just to know if you have a normal appetite :) special mention to the signature opera - it is absolutely amazing - i may even say the best cake i ever had in Canada !

Today was my first time trying here and the food quality was really good and I love that they are Oceanwise certified because they use sustainably caught ingredients. My favourite was the salmon oshi, Brussel sprouts, and vanilla caramel ice cream. The staff was also nice to charge my near dying phone for me! Staff was genuinely friendly and it was a great experience.

Solid restaurant with good and affordable food. I tried their deluxe nigiri set which consisted of 8 pieces of nigiri (which included uni and other premium cuts of fish) and 6 pieces of tekka maki. Each cut of the fish was fresh. The uni was fresh too but not as sweet. The only thing wrong with the nigiri was that the rice was falling apart. Friendly service and attentive staff. Overall a good experience.

Went for lunch today and loved the place! The lady who helped our table was super friendly! Had the Kaisen soba peperoncino to share, and we each had the Deluxe nigiri set. Perfect portion, fresh, and was tasty😊 Forgot the drink's name, it was nice as well!

This was a recommendation from a local and the food was delicious! Our server was very accommodating and helpful. I would have given a 5 overall but I found the value for money a tad lacking. Still a wonderful place for sushi though

I had high expectations for Minami as it’s often recommended as one of Vancouver’s top aburi spots. Unfortunately, the experience fell short. The sockeye salmon aburi was extremely dry, which was disappointing given that aburi should be juicy and flavorful. One of the rolls we tried also lacked distinction- it felt very average, not what I’d expect from a restaurant of this reputation and price point. The service and ambiance were lovely, but ultimately it’s the food that makes or breaks the visit, and this time it didn’t meet the standard.

The omakase was simply amazing. Each course was expertly designed and the flavors were so good... Well balanced and unique. It was very satisfying eating a California roll as it was intended by the guy who invented it. Tojo is so friendly and just a joy to be around. Highly recommend. The restaurant is so quiet even with the kitchen right there. All of the staff are so precise.

Incredibly fresh, never-frozen sashimi at this fine dining sushi spot—each piece was a testament to quality and craftsmanship. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience for us, though we did find the atmosphere a bit too quiet for comfort (felt more like a library than a restaurant). Service was impeccable—staff were highly attentive, keeping our water topped up and even switching out my plate after noticing a stray fish bone. That said, I have to deduct a star due to an unexpected surprise in the hamachi from the Tojo’s Selection. Biting into a fishbone at this level of dining was disappointing and not something you'd expect from such a revered establishment. If you’ve got a big appetite like us, don’t show up on an empty stomach—unless you’re prepared to part with a leg or an arm. This place isn’t for the faint of wallet.

Chef Tojo has received a long list of awards and accolades throughout his culinary career and has earned respect as a Master Chef for his extraordinary ability to prepare Japanese cuisine. He was the first to introduce Omakase to Vancouver’s culinary scene and is the creator of countless dishes and techniques that are ubiquitous today. Among the most influential is the “Inside out” Tojo Roll, which is now universally known as the “California Roll.” The dishes are fresh, unique and modern, rooted in Japanese fine dining traditions with a distinct Pacific Northwest perspective, using the finest seasonal, local and organic ingredients. In 2016, the Japanese government honoured Chef Tojo as a Goodwill Ambassador for Japanese Cuisine, distinguishing him as belonging to the top tier of Japanese chefs in the world. If that isn’t respect then I don’t know what is. Chef Tojo has been a heavy weight contender and influencer for DECADES. He paved the path for generational chefs to grow and be innovative. The man is over 75 years old and when he worked in Vancouver in the 70's he faced a staggering amount of racism from locals, and sushi itself was seen as bizarre and foreign. He has earned his stripes without a doubt and unknowingly created a huge presence of loyal supporters. Chef Tojo and the culinary team. You will always have a special place in my heart from the years of dining. There have been many memorable moments. Thank you so much. You represented Vancouver exceedingly well. I don’t know any other Japanese Chef that has received this much honour and recognition. You’re a legend.

Tried out many japanese cuisines. For the type of food, quality, tiny portion, how the dishes were prepared, it's very over priced and extremely underwhelming....(valentine's dinner seafood omakase menu). $512 for 2 people, 6 dishes (felt like Sushi Garden quality). Will never come back again as there are plenty other restaurants with higher quality. Pay $80 more per-person and go to Sushi Okeya Kyujiro instead for a proper omakase experience.

All 5-star restaurant in Vancouver, amazing. The head chef is famous for his California rolls. We went for the chef's choice and he did surprise me with every dish he presented to me. The finish, savour and taste are all 100/100, even the dessert at the end of the meal. I regret for not taking photos of every dish and for not showing my appreciation to the chef in person. The waiter and waitresses are all hospitable and they are glad to initiate a chat or two during the meal. Like other Japanese restaurants, they will spend some time to introduce each dish as they come to ourtable. Absolutely perfect dining experience. Arigado.

Best sushi I have had. This place is a real experience and their staff were amazing. I would say that was also the best service I have had in any restaurant. 10/10 in my opinion. Don't forget to try the tojo roll there. They are amazing too.

Very nice staff, attentive. Had a chance to take a look how the sushi was made/served. The chefs also very nice ppl and very approachable.

A hidden gem in Vancouver for sure. I enjoyed the fish very much as they were all very fresh. I liked the toro dishes especially because the fattiness was perfect— they just melted in my mouth. The starter was a bit on the saltier side but the nigiris were a bit flavourless… I liked the aged eel as well; it is pretty unique for omakase. The white coffee cake was light and not too sweet. The service was amazing (server refilled ginger and pickled apple).

The name 哲 (Tetsu) has been carried in the names of Chef Satoshi’s family. Hence the name of the restaurant. Opened in 2017, housing 12 seats, this place gained steadfast popularity receiving notable awards and accolades. “While we may only welcome a few guests each day, we find great joy in the dinner experiences created with you. - Thank you for so warmly embracing Tetsu.” Much love, CHEF SATOSHI MAKISE Comments from the author 100/10 - GO!!!

I love the amberjack and chutoro here. Uni was a little small. Strawberry daifuku was good. Not into the smoked oyster and udon. Will come back as a treat :)

Tetsu never goes wrong! Been here multiple times and it’s my go-to omakase place in Vancouver. Chef is friendly and he shares restaurants in Japan with us when we tell him we going to Fukuoka soon. :)

Absolutely stunning. Very Japanese in the impeccable and precise service and the food was fresh and creative. So impressed with every bite. Can’t wait to go back next time I am in Vancouver. Fish selection you often don’t see on a menu.

A must-try for sushi lovers! It’s not just fresh fish — the chef brings so much creativity to each piece. The spot prawn with Shaoxing wine was a standout, and the smoked cherry trout was incredible. It had beautiful balance of aroma and flavor. I also added the Kuruma Ebi nigiri and loved it so much. Highly recommend!

I was invited by my friend for a last-minute Omakase and I am so glad I was able to have made it for such a wonderful dining experience at tetsu sushi bar! I was able to try a variety of sushi where it reminded me of Japan. My favourite would be the ji kimedai, uni, kuromutsu and the iwashi was unreal! To end the night, we had ichigo daifuku which was probably the best daifuku I have ever had! Satoshi san is passionate in what he does and puts in a lot of effort in curating each dishes and ensuring the quality is top notched. The plates he used to place the nigiri was hand carried all the way from Japan. The server was also amazing! The staff was attentive and made sure that me and my friend was looked after. 🥰 They recently renovated and I highly recommend to book a reso if you miss Japan!

My wife and I had an absolutely amazing dining experience at Miku. From the moment we walked in, the energy and atmosphere felt welcoming and lively, setting the stage for a memorable evening. The staff were attentive, friendly, and clearly passionate about the food they were serving. We decided to go with the chef’s choice menu, and it was the best decision we could have made. Every course that came out was beautifully presented and full of flavor. Each dish felt like a perfect balance of creativity and tradition, and we loved the variety that the menu offered. The quality of the fish and ingredients was outstanding. Every bite was fresh and perfectly prepared, and it was one of those meals where we didn’t want it to end. The pacing of the courses was spot on too, giving us time to enjoy each dish without ever feeling rushed. Overall, Miku exceeded our expectations in every way. The combination of atmosphere, service, and unforgettable food made this one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had in Vancouver. My wife and I left beyond satisfied and can’t wait to come back. A must-visit if you’re in the city.

We came here as a recommendation from my coworker and it was easily the best food I've had in Vancouver! Our server took the time to go through the menu with us, and everything he recommended was delicious. We ordered the Deluxe Shokai, Salmon + Ebi Oshi Aburi Sushi, Miku Roll, and had a small bite of the famous and delicious Green Tea Opera. We'll definitely return next time we're in town!

I didn’t have a reservation, so I sat at the bar—and honestly, it turned out great. I had the Kaiseki course and added some prime rib on the side. Every dish was super fresh and beautifully presented. The service was friendly and on point, even at the bar. I also tried a bunch of drinks while I was there, and they were all really well made. The whole experience was smooth, relaxed, and way better than I expected without a table. Definitely recommend if you’re into high-quality sushi and want something special but still chill. Would go back for!!!

We had a lovely dinner at Miku Vancouver — the sushi and truffle risotto were absolutely delicious and beautifully plated. The service team was friendly and tried their best to accommodate everyone even though it was quite busy that evening. The food did take a little longer than expected, but the quality and freshness made it worth the wait. I really appreciated the girl who helped us get seated faster — such sweet and attentive energy. 💕

Our second time here this year and Miku has now become a must when in Vancouver. Our server Andrew was excellent and made great recommendations which added to an overall wonderful dining experience. A bit on the pricey side but so worth it. And the view is fantastic.

Reservations (at the bar) for 5pm because there were no tables available for 2. the 1/2 order of Maguro Sashimi ($22.50) and Otoro Sashimi ($31) fresh and melted in your mouth. 1/2 order of Surf & Turf roll ($12) and 1/2 order of Red Wave roll ($10) was a nice delicious sampling of these rolls. Oshi Sampler ($21) tasty; Wagyu Carpaccio ($38) was fresh but small (but enough)Kaisen Soba ($32) had fresh vegetables and seasoned well. Tightrope Rose ($23 for 9oz). Left at 6:15pm and they had only seated 2 other tables and allowed a screaming child to wait with his mother while she ordered take-out and WAITED inside for the order. It was a beautiful day and hostess certainly could have asked them to wait outside. Service was ok. Bartenders seemed to be pre-occupied. Runners were fast and furious. Food was good but not sure if worth it. Probably.

Exceptional sushi. It's not by any means a traditional experience. The restaurant is large and has a cool vibe. And the menu is sort of ecclectic. But it all comes together into what is a really satisfying experience. That it's also good value is a bonus. Next time we are in Vancouver, it will be on our list for.sure.

Very local spot near the London drugs and the walk in clinic/lifelabs. Small restaurant with limited seats, they have a policy that all members of the party need to be here to be seated. Takeout is possible but not through the app, just through the phone or in person. The food was very good, lots of vegetarian options which is nice to see. Large menu - all made fresh. We sat at the bar and watched the sushi chefs at work. Felt like a true authentic Japanese experience. They also sell some Japanese snacks near the door. Quick service, we were here on a weekday at 5pm when they opened. Restaurant was pretty empty and the service was wonderful. Imagine that this place gets very busy on the weekend. It’s closed on Mondays. The washrooms were very nice and clean! Would be back! Highly recommend for a nice lunch or dinner!

Japanese Owned Sushi Restaurant situated in a smaller complex away from the busy main strip.The service was friendly and attentive. Sushi and sashimi were fresh and great quality. More of a traditional shop rather the usual sushi chains with oversauced sushi rolls. Highly Recommend if your in the area.

Ok I've been this place like a good 10 years ago or so and it was packed and food was amazing and price was very fair. Decided to try it out again since I moved back around the area and man was I in for a treat for all the inflation and quality drop. A plate of 7 small sized salmon sashimi TnT quality alike costed $23 dollars!? House roll 5 pieces $14, negitoro roll $10 and the CC combo for freaking $77 bucks really shocked me. Like everything on the menu is twice the price of else where of similar quality. Look, if the food was actually top quality then whatever, but it really felt like we weren't getting the value out of what we paid. Huge let down and I'd not recommend anyone with high expectations to come here, nor will I return again. Rip the good old Ajisai.

Legit sushi place in Vancouver. All the fish tasted fresh and could bite into its texture. I enjoyed the chopped scallop roll and tuna nigiri the most. Picture include combo cc, ikura salmon don, bluefin negitoro roll, house dynamite, chopped scallop roll.

Everything was absolutely delicious. Each set was thoughtfully prepared, and if there were any seafood items I couldn’t eat, they were very flexible and happy to replace them. Communication was smooth and friendly throughout the meal. The chef paid close attention to the guests and made sure we were enjoying every dish, which made the whole dining experience feel very personal and attentive. The food was excellent — especially the nigiri sushi. I could really taste the freshness and craftsmanship in every bite. Highly recommend!

We use to love this place - was one of the best authentic, freshest ingredients sushi restaurants in town. It was totally worth lining up 30 mins before open just to get in for lunch or dinner! Really disappointed with their new lunch policy which I think was started sometime earlier this year. They have a lunch set now which you have to order from before you're allowed to order from their standard menu (although I'm not sure if that was a concession on their part for us). This happened in April and we had made a special trip out for a birthday lunch and was surprised when they wouldn't allow us to order off their "evening" menu. It was a bit of lost in translation when they were explaining things but in the end it sounded like we had to hit a certain minimum purchase before we could order from the standard menu. We kept explaining that their lunch set wasn't appealing to us because we would rather fill up on items that we really wanted to eat (unagi, uni, toro, otoro, chopped scallop, basically fancier nigiri or gunkan, kama) vs a bento box or more basic choices (salmon, tuna, clam,etc). After a lot of back and forth they asked what we wanted to order and then see if they would fullfill it? Whatever was decided they in the end had no issues and were able to order normally. But the whole thing just left us feeling unpleasant. I wasn't going to leave a negative review but when thinking about being in the area again everyone in the group said we should find a different place to eat because there didn't seem to be a point coming to Ajisai for lunch any more. Anyway here are photos from a happier time when you could order straight off their menu and not have to be boxed in with lunch sets. I totally understand reading their responses to other reviewers the reasons why but it's still disappointing. This place use to be THE PLACE for sushi but now it's kind of generic - at least for lunch.

The closest taste to Japan is found at this spot. With top notch fresh sashimi, sushi, and rolls, Ajisai doesn't disappoint. My only gripe is their sashimi and nigiri size has noticeably diminished a little over the years. Still fresh as ever, only visibly smaller.

Delicious food and beautiful presentation. It is a great place to go on a solo date or date night. Good ambiance, delicious food, delicious wine, fresh, local… 5 stars! They infuse their own honey with foraged fruit and flowers and use that to make their delicious sorbet and ice cream. It is definitely pricey so go when you are celebrating or need to treat yourself after a hard day! 100% worth it for a once in the while delicious meal. Good service and lovely experience at the bar.

Amazing Japanese cuisine! Each item is prepared with attention to detail, and the server explains the intricacies for each food served. Great ambiance and service. Food was all excellent, well presented, and can't emphasize the ingenuity and craftsmanship that goes in. Highly recommend the Smoked Tai Kama, Wagyu Broth Udon, and can't go wrong with their fresh sashimi from Japan and Oshizushi!

Love this hidden gem spot on commercial drive. Been coming here for years. Love it so much we came at opening to get a table for 5. Always very fresh and very artistic in the presentation. My mil loved the rice they used. Cooked to perfection and texture was amazing. The smoked sablefish was sooo delicious and the soba noodles were also perfectly cooked.

I had such an amazing experience here! Every dish was like a work of art, both in presentation and taste. Chirashi Donburi: Absolutely delicious and beautifully presented with a unique 20-grid design. Each section had premium ingredients like bluefin tuna, wagyu beef, salmon, and even caviar. The sushi rice was perfectly seasoned with shiso, sesame, ginger, and pickled radish—an explosion of ocean flavors in every bite. Smoked Oshi: Served under a glass dome, releasing an incredible cherrywood smoke aroma as it’s unveiled. The smoked salmon was tender and full of flavor—pure happiness in every mouthful!

Ordered the spicy karaage, dynamite roll, and smoked oshi. Chef brought me pickled fruit between courses and sorbet before leaving, on the house. Everything was plated with expertise. The pickled fruit was especially adorable. Definitely reminiscent of the places I've visited in Japan.

The sushi was good but nothing special, especially for the very high price. Service was poor – we had to call the staff several times just to order, and they didn’t even thank customers when leaving. Overall, it feels far too expensive for such basic sushi. On top of that, the tables are crammed so close together that you’re basically sitting with strangers. Overall, not worth it.

Three kinds of sashimi – six pieces in total for two people – cost $39. This was probably the most expensive sashimi I’ve ever had, but also the most disappointing. The ingredients weren’t even high-end, so it just felt overpriced. And then there was a salad for $15. It seemed like they put a lot of effort into making the food look nice, but they didn’t really think about the basics — the quality and the portion size.

I’d heard countless praises about Toshi Sushi, so I finally decided to try it. After about a 40-minute wait (they don’t take reservations), I got a seat. The nigiri stood out even more than the sashimi, and the specials were excellent so I'd recommend those. Prices are high, even by Vancouver standards, and while the food and atmosphere were nice, I wish the servers hadn’t rushed us or kept pushing for extra orders. It’s hard to enjoy a $7 uni when your plate gets taken away so abruptly and asked for something else. Overall, it was very good, but perhaps my expectation was too high. At this price point and wait time, I did wish for something more exceeding.

Hands down my favorite sushi spot in Vancouver. If you're looking for fresh, quality sushi at a great price point, with good service this is it! They have a wall of features as well as their staple menu, which makes every visit unique and fun. It's always busy, so generally there is a bit of a wait but it is so worth it. This is a must try!

Great selection of daily specials. Sushi and sashimi were fresh and tasted amazing. Service was friendly and efficient. Highly recommend.

Wait was worth it! We were told it was longer than usual (6pm on Saturday night - we expected that) but was nice out and we were ok to relax on the bench. The tuna and salmon sashimi were every fresh and the spicy chopped scallop roll was flavourful. Wasn't planning on dessert but had to try the hoji-cya ice cream - loved it. Enjoyed the atmosphere and the enthusiastic servers.

Most of the staff were very polite, but unfortunately the female host at the door made our experience very unpleasant. My family and I waited outside for 40 minutes. At 8:00 she told us that once a table by the window finished paying, it would be ours. However, even after the guests had paid, they stayed chatting for almost 10 minutes. When I asked her to kindly remind them, she said “OK” but never did. As closing time approached, I asked again, but instead of handling it fairly, she interrupted me, repeatedly said “be patient,” and even gestured for me to leave. After such a long wait, I felt very disrespected. On a positive note, one of the nigiri I ate had a bone in it, but the staff handled it very well—they replaced it for me and gave me two extra pieces. A restaurant is not only about food, but also about service.

This place gets Busy!!! And there's a reason why because you’re getting decent value for good quality sushi. Toshi has been known to be a contender for consistent sushi on Main Street. Every single person I know has been here and they return. Parking is a bit tough but worth the walk. Service is fantastic, always clean and professional.

We visited on a Wednesday evening after work, and the restaurant was packed—with a 30-minute wait for a table. We ordered the Spicy Combo (spicy tuna roll and spicy scallop roll), Philadelphia Roll, BBQ Sea Eel, Gindara (miso-baked black cod), Box Sushi, Fig & Yogurt Ice Cream, and Yuzu Green Apple Ice Cream. The miso-baked black cod is a standout—it literally melts in your mouth. Incredibly tender with a delicate umami flavor, it’s a must-try. The BBQ sea eel, one of their specials, was also delicious. The house-made ice creams were smooth and flavorful. I especially loved the fig for its natural taste, while the Yuzu Green Apple had a bold, sour citrus punch—perfect for fans of tart desserts. Everything else we ordered was decent, though slightly overpriced compared to other sushi spots.

This sushi place is a gem, serving up tasty dishes that hit all the right spots. The restaurant itself is cozy and small, so be prepared for a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours, it’s worth it! Don’t skip their specialty rolls; they’re a highlight and absolutely delicious. The prices are very reasonable, making it easy to enjoy a fantastic meal. The service is top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who make the experience even better. Overall, a great spot for sushi lovers—just come with a bit of patience during busy times!

Tom sushi is top-tier very fresh sushi located in the West End where there is ample competition for your dining experience. The food quality is exceptional and attention to detail cannot be ignored. Great presentation and very reasonable prices for this level of quality We arrived late in the evening as our efforts to go to another West End restaurant failed us. Glad we came to Tom sushi as Every dish was presented very quickly and was freshly prepared even though it was close to last call shortly. I had the teriyaki chicken with rice, which was a very generous serving for again an extremely reasonable price. I also had chicken karaage which was freshly deep-fried and not refried stationed food The tuna and salmon sashimi were cold and generously cut. Aburi Sushi was perfectly pressed with jalapeño pepper to add some heat This is awesome value here and I should come more regularly. Toms commitment to quality shows with his success, I am eager to check out his other 2 restaurants. Toms sushi is my go to downtown

Finally got into this place because it’s always so busy! Had to wait maybe 20 mins even on off peak hours. Overall if you want a more premium experience, this place is great (although u could find great sushi at a lower price point). The blck dragon roll and deluxe hako aburi sushi were really good. Was pleasantly surprised by the crunchy tempura inside the aburi sushi. The red dynamite roll was just okay for me but my friend really liked it. Sashimi was great. Love the fatty tuna Service was excellent. Super quick and attentive. Minus points for the atmosphere because it is quite a small tight space, leading to long queues.

Absolutely the Best Sushi I’ve Ever Had! Truly perfection. Every bite melts in your mouth, and the flavors are perfectly balanced and incredibly delicious. We had the Tom Special Roll Tray, and it was an amazing selection of sushi. I’ll definitely be coming back. it’s a must try for any sushi lover!

We’ve been wanting to try this place. We went in at around 5pm so the wait was only 10-15 minutes. The sushi was very fresh. The nigiri tasted very good. The roll left a bit to be desired in terms of flavour. The eel nigiri was very very good. Loved the food here, but I wouldn’t stay in a long waitlist to eat here. I feel like you can find similar quality sushi in a lot of other places in BC. But it was great to try this place out.

Such a positive experience! We were traveling with a 6 month old who was very fussy this day. The staff were so kind and reassuring, even trying to cheer him up. Our food was delicious - so so fresh, and the prices you cannot beat for this level of high quality sushi.

Probably the best sushi I’ve had in Vancouver. The hype is definitely real. The menu is loaded with delicious and unique options. The only item that wasn’t up to the quality I’ve seen at other Vancouver sushi restaurants was the salmon sashimi. Still delicious, but not as buttery and smooth as other places.

The waitress in good English helped us with getting a reservation and was very pleasant. Had a good feeling already when she was talking to the chef in Japanese and going back and forth with us in English. Felt authentic. We only got sushi and sashimi - it is really good. There is only one chef, I think it’s Yuji and he makes all the sushi and sashimi. The nigiri onakase is pricy but is good, all good fish, no fillers. But actually my favorite of the night was the blue fin negitoro roll that came part of the omakase. So delicious. The wasabi looks like it’s hand carved from a real wasabi root and the ginger it comes with is homemade. I wish the miso soup was more homemade but I understand that it is a small operation…I hope they stay in business long because I am planning on coming back more often! I had a positive experience here.

After viewing all the pictures of the gunkan and nigiri sushi, I was so tempted to try it out. It was perfect that night. Plenty of free parking all around, we see this tiny corner. We didn't make any reservations but we lucked out at the bar. This place was hustling busy busy. I prefer sitting at the bar because it's a different experience. I love the simple concept "Sushi by Yuji." We watched him meticulously work on his art. I decided to only order his nigiri and gunkan. My friend wanted to add a roll, the Alaskan, which had cream cheese in it. Meh, why not let's try the negitoro. Holy smokes the ikura with quail egg danced in my mouth. The ika with shiso is so authentic, since there's REAL wasabi and mint in it. The chopped scallop gunkan, generous in topping and man was it refreshing. How the hell does he keep his scallop and roe so cold?!? The tuna carpaccio as well the salmon carpaccio had a tangy soy sauce in it, yuji said please don't put soy it alregdy has soy. Yes Chef 😬 The quality and his craft is SO disciplined. This guy is the real deal. Vancouver let it be known that this small operation is a heavyweight contender. Oh my goodness… 😋 Our light dinner turned into a bigger one Iol. We couldn't stop ordering. Prices are reasonable for this quality. This place will forever be my nigiri and gunkan sushi to go to. Chef yuji, thank you so much! You are amazing and you deserve alot more praise! A one man show in the kitchen. Small operation but speaks big volumes! Btw we got pocky with our bill 😬✌️ Kanpai! 🥃

Impeccable quality and rare, seasonal selection of fish keeps me coming back for more. The owner frequently introduces sakes and beer from Japan that you can't find easily in Vancouver as well, and complements the food well. Thank you Yuji-san for always providing a top-notch food experience!

Definitely a hidden gem on Kingsway. A small Japanese restaurant operated by Japanese. Reasonable price and good selection of sashimi and nigiri. There are many selections of sake and beer too

this is THE best sushi place in vancouver. every time i visit home my best friend and i have to go. the fish is so phenomenally high quality, and the prices are so affordable in comparison. i think it’s because it’s just a tiny hole in the wall and you’re not paying for any fancy ambiance. but who needs it when the food is this good 😭 take my money 💳💥💳💥💳 food can take a while to come out (if you care about that) and you definitely need a reservation

Hole-in-the-wall sushi restaurant in Vancouver! Sushi by Yuji is in extremely high demand. Very limited seating and only by reservation in advance, usually. The sushi here is the real deal - hand-picked fish selections by someone who clearly knows what they’re doing and values quality ingredients for their customers. Every dish we tried here was top notch - extremely fresh and very tasty. The variety was especially well-appreciated and the fish alone was bursting in flavor. Unbelievable sushi and some of the best I’ve ever had! If you’re in Vancouver looking for the best sushi in town, this might just be it!

This place reminds me of how great Japanese restaurants in Vancouver used to be 20 years ago. The sushi here is excellent, fresh, well-prepared, and reasonably priced. While the restaurant's decor isn’t fancy or modern, it makes up for it with the food. One thing to note: on busy nights (especially weekends), they sometimes won’t take additional takeout orders if they’re already at capacity. While that might be frustrating, I respect that they’d rather turn customers away than compromise on quality or service. If you’re looking for delicious, authentic sushi at a fair price, this spot is worth a visit.

An Unforgettable Sushi Experience in Vancouver Dining here was truly spectacular. Each dish was a work of art—beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The service was outstanding, with staff who were attentive, friendly, and made us feel genuinely welcome. This is easily one of the best sushi restaurants in Vancouver. If you're celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary, I highly recommend this place. The atmosphere is elegant yet comfortable, making it perfect for creating lasting memories.

It was such a delightful and delicious dining experience. I didn’t expect to find such fresh and high-quality dishes in Vancouver, but I was completely wrong. Throughout the entire meal, every staff member and the chef were incredibly kind and attentive, making sure we felt comfortable without the slightest inconvenience. We were able to enjoy a wonderful dinner filled with warm and pleasant conversation. I would definitely love to visit again if I have the chance.

JMT! Kevin was so amazing! Such a nice guy and very skilled in his craft. We really want to learn how he makes his tamago. Would def recommend and was the best omakase experience I’ve had in van.

I was super excited to try this place. It was amazing!!! Kevin was very professional and had explained every dish of what it was and how to eat it. He was also very observant that I didn't eat green onions (quite embarrassing for me 🤣), and he had asked if it was okay. 💓 We had tried the sakura omakase, which was more of a tasting menu. There was 8 settings at the sushi bar, half chose the sakura omakase and the other half chose the regular omakase. Everything was VERY fresh. Kevin exhibited his expertise with pride. I would definitely go back and try their regular omakase menu for sure.

So fun to try omakase! Was an intimate setting at the bar with chef making the sushi in front of you and telling you what each dish is. You have to make a reservation for omakase!

I’ve been to multiple omakase so far, and this was one of the best omakase experiences I’ve ever had. Chef Kevin is really attentive to the details, and I can see he put in so much effort mastering each flavor. My favorite was their squid sushi with uni on top. The texture was so smooth, and it was amazing. To top it off, the customer service of the entire team was top-notch. I highly recommend if anybody wants to have a great omakase experience whether it will be your first time or not.

My wife and I had the best Omakase experience so far! Chef Kevin is such an expert at his craft. Each meal was made with such care and delicacy and tasted amazing! On top of that, Kevin was super friendly and made us comfortable. His assistants took good care of us and we stayed a little bit late as the conversations would not end. Totally worh it 👏

Okeya Kyujiro is truly a world-class dining experience. Absolutely amazing! Presentation is stunning, and the pace of the meal is perfectly timed so you can fully savor each bite. The staff go above and beyond to make you feel special, explaining each course with passion and knowledge. Hands down one of the best meals I’ve ever had. If you’re looking for a memorable sushi night, this is the place!

This is a perfect omakase spot for a special occasion with your partner. Reservations are hard to get, so be sure to book well in advance 🤗. From the very beginning, when the chefs come out to greet you, you feel genuinely welcomed and taken care of. Each dish is crafted with care and bursting with freshness. I highly recommend experiencing this place at least once—it’s truly unforgettable

For our recent birthday and wedding anniversary celebration, we visited a Michelin 1-star restaurant for the first time, and it was an absolutely incredible experience from start to finish. Upon arrival, we were welcomed into a beautifully designed waiting area where we could relax and take in the stunning decor. The staff were incredibly friendly, engaging in light small talk that made the wait for our table feel effortless and enjoyable. The restaurant’s round bar setup and exquisite interior design were breathtaking. Though located in Vancouver, the ambiance made us feel like we’d stepped into a high-end restaurant in Japan. The attention to detail in the decor set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The menu was wonderfully varied, featuring starters, nigiri, tempura, ramen, and more. What stood out was how the staff showcased the ingredients used in each dish, highlighting their freshness and quality. They also kindly explained the preparation process for each course, which added so much to the overall enjoyment of the meal. As the meal wrapped up with dessert, the staff made our birthday and anniversary celebration extra special by playing a celebratory song on the flute. It was a touching and unforgettable moment that we’ll cherish forever. This restaurant truly lives up to its Michelin 1-star reputation with its impeccable atmosphere, food, and service. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a special dining experience. Whether it’s for a celebration or just to treat yourself, you won’t be disappointed—go visit and see for yourself!

It was hard to define how amazing my experience was in Okeya Kyujiro. They certainly served the freshest and best-quality dishes with their performance by skillful chefs. All we need to do was just sitting by the table while they were preparing each heavenly bite of happiness. We started having their signature appetizers and chawanmushi. Then, the chef began cutting the fish or meat to serve. The server would explain to us each nigiri/dishes that we were having. At the end, they served us dessert and matcha ceremonial drink. The ambience was very authentic and elegant. The service was exceptional.

Dining at Okeya Kyujiro is an exceptional experience from start to finish. The service is professional, attentive, and genuinely warm, making every guest feel welcome. Each course in the omakase menu was nothing short of heavenly, perfectly balanced in flavor, beautifully presented, and crafted with extraordinary care. The pacing of the meal, the subtle details in every dish, and the overall artistry make it a truly memorable dining experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend Okeya Kyujiro to anyone looking for an unforgettable evening of impeccable food and outstanding hospitality.

Okeya Kyujiro is definitely an interesting place for omakase. It is probably the only place I know of that does it theatrical style. Usually, I prefer omakase where I interact with the chef on a personal level. From experience, I enjoyed it more when I have company at Okeya probably due to the vibe and style. Food wise, it is high quality and remained consistently good. The tempura blown me away the first time for its light batter and how non-oily it tasted. Probably the best I had in Vancouver so far. Everything tasted fresh and there is a good variety of dishes served throughout the entire course. I appreciate the fact that I get to see how the fishes look like in real life before it gets turned into a nigiri or tempura. The team is organised, clean and worked efficiently so everything ends on time. If anything on my wish list, I hope the seats can be higher so my arms rest at a right angle and not having to lean in too much. Also, it will be great if there are more single glass sake option for weak drinker. Not sure if it will change in the future but a physical drink menu would be awesome though probably a reason why there is none?

25 course omakase and even though it was expensive it was worth every penny. You get a iron chef type of perspective watching the chef(s) prepare the courses in front of you. Food was excellent and presentation was awe inspiring and service is exceptional, no wonder they have a Michelin star! Best Omakase I ever had!!!

We are seafood lovers, and my husband took me here for my birthday dinner. The oysters were very fresh and juicy. The food was good, and the service was great. We sat in the balcony area, which was warm. The only downside was the heater — it couldn’t be adjusted, so when one table complained that it was too hot, they turned it off. Once it was off, it got cold again, so they had to keep switching it on and off. The walkway to the washroom was also quite dark. Overall, we had a great time there.

Came here on a Sunday evening and got seated at the sushi bar, which was a great experience — it’s always nice to watch the sushi chefs at work. We weren’t too hungry, so we ordered a few items to share. Our server recommended a bottle of sake to pair with the food (wish I had taken a photo of the label!), and interestingly, it was served in a wine glass instead of traditional sake cups. We ended the meal with dessert and an espresso martini. Overall, it was a great dinner — the atmosphere was relaxed yet upscale and very clean. Would definitely come back!

I had a wonderful dining experience at this restaurant. The food was delicious, full of flavor and beautifully presented. The service was equally impressive. A special thanks to Chris for providing such excellent service and making our visit extra enjoyable. I’ll definitely be coming back again!

We dined at 7:30pm and table was ready for us no wait time the weather was perfect pleasant. The atmosphere was amazing as well no loud music.. service was not the top but there is alot room for improvement… but i will still give it a 5 star. the food was delicious we had the seafood tower, tenderloins , ribs, duck and salmon and delicious dessert lava cake and cheesecake… also this is the first restaurant we experience bread and butter.. hot bread the second time.. the seafood was definitely fresh for a Wednesday evening.I recommend this place to everyone visiting Vancouver or even for date night. I am sure they will take care of you. For more details for the food visit the place 😀

This beautiful restaurant in the heart of Yaletown offers an extensive list of whiskey, various drinks, and cocktails. The ambiance is beautiful and romantic, making it a great place to drink and chat with friends. The food is delicious but not extraordinary.

A lovely spot for enjoying white wine. If you’re feeling full after dinner, I recommend the fresh lobster sashimi as a light accompaniment. Ask for lemon and cocktail sauce on the side, it elevates the flavor noticeably. Portions are very small and the price is determined by market rate, so it isn’t inexpensive, but there aren’t many places where you can enjoy lobster sashimi. The atmosphere is excellent and the staff are gracious.

Blue Water Cafe isn’t just our favorite restaurant—it’s our second home. My husband and I come here all the time, and it’s always special. But when it came time to plan our wedding party, they turned special into truly unforgettable. Stephan, the incredible Director, helped us bring our vision to life with such care and precision. Every little detail was thought through, and his amazing team executed it all so seamlessly. It honestly felt like magic. ✨ The food was beyond delicious—elegant, flavourful, and absolutely world-class. Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how good everything was. For a wedding dinner, it didn’t just meet expectations—it soared way above them. And the bar? Let’s just say even our pickiest friends found their perfect drink (or three). 🍸🍷😉 The space was set up beautifully, with AV and a mic ready to go—because yes, there were speeches, and yes, I cried. Everything flowed perfectly. Huge hugs and thanks to Erin, our amazing head waiter, who kept everything calm and on time like a total pro. And to Martin, Adam, and Ben—thank you for keeping the drinks flowing (honestly, I don’t know how your arms didn’t fall off!). You guys were fabulous. Thank you, Blue Water, for making our celebration feel like a dream. You’ll forever be part of our love story. 💕

We had an amazing stay at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, and the Lobby Lounge & RawBar truly stood out. The staff were attentive, friendly, and professional — they made us feel completely taken care of. The food was beautifully presented and delicious, especially the sashimi platter and desserts. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxing, with lovely live music and warm lighting. I also loved the playful boy-and-girl art pieces — such a unique touch that made the space feel artistic and alive. Highly recommend for both a special night out and a cozy evening drink. 💫🍣✨

A Beautiful, Memorable Birthday at The Lobby Lounge & RawBar My recent birthday celebration (last evening) with my wife at The Lobby Lounge & RawBar at the Fairmont Vancouver was an absolutely beautiful and memorable evening. From the moment we stepped inside, the experience was elevated by the exceptional staff who made us feel truly special. The evening began with a wonderfully warm welcome from Winona at the front desk, whose kindness set the perfect tone. We were then looked after by Crista, our fantastic server, whose amazing presence and helpful guidance made selecting our dishes a pure pleasure. The food was nothing short of spectacular. We began with a warm glass of sake and a breathtaking amalgamation of flavors in the maki rolls. The 'WAGYU BEEF & PRAWN' and the 'LOBBY LOUNGE' rolls were both exquisite, a testament to the kitchen's culinary talent. We concluded our meal with the delightful Nori taco and a Pan Dan drink. My sincerest compliments to the kitchen team for a truly wonderful meal. And a very special thank you again to Crista and Winona. Thanks for making my birthday a night to remember!

Food Poisoning from Sushi Bar – Histamine Intoxication Risk, Poor Handling, and Gaslighting Response I strongly advise future guests to read the negative reviews before choosing to dine at this hotel’s sushi bar — they are, unfortunately, accurate reflections of the experience. After finishing a late spa appointment last night, I opted to dine at this sushi bar in the hotel lobby instead of ordering room service. That decision directly led to acute gastroenteritis caused by histamine intoxication — a condition commonly linked to improperly stored raw fish, especially species like tuna and mackerel. Symptoms typically begin within 10 minutes to an hour, and I experienced immediate diarrhea, nausea, and skin rashes soon after eating. Before ordering, the chef made a strange remark about the only visibly fresh-looking item on display — a piece of bluefin tuna — warning me that it was “much more expensive.” I found his tone suspicious and moved from the bar counter to a table. When the sushi arrived, the fish appeared visibly discolored — greyish and oxidized. I removed the darkest pieces and only ate the parts that seemed less spoiled, yet still suffered severe symptoms. What’s worse is how the staff responded: · At first, they were dismissive and cold. · When I insisted on addressing the issue, both the restaurant manager and waiter tried to shift the blame to my breakfast, claiming it couldn’t have been their food. This is not only unprofessional but gaslighting at its finest. I’ve yet to receive any follow-up or investigation outcome from the hotel, despite being told someone would reach out. Meanwhile, the allergic reaction following the food poisoning caused a hard swollen lump above my upper lip. a textbook sign of histamine poisoning. To make matters worse, their staff pressured me to sign off on the bill before the issue was even investigated — a shockingly rude and inappropriate demand. If you’re looking for fresh sashimi or sushi during your stay, stay far away from this restaurant. All you’ll get here is food poisoning and a manipulative attitude.

As a guest of the Fairmont Pacific Rim, the “LL” beckoned. Often crowded, lively, there appeared to be a draw, a reason to sample the fare. I encourage consideration of the word “raw” in “Rawbar”. Sushi is an art form. The “artistry” of LL appears to be the thoughtful organization and presentation of uncooked seafood. The $6 Diet Coke managed to be watery, a presumed result of an imbalanced fountain mix. I shudder to think it was a “raw” Diet Coke. While the 2 stars awarded the food may seem harsh, the “sweet shrimp” was fresh, if void of flavor, and the interesting element was the marinated, very thin slices of cucumber. There was even a generous portion of shrimp, 8 in all; 3 pieces were expected (according to the menu). Sadly, when soft drinks rival the price of an offering, one wonders. Clearly, the intent of LL is to be another in a series of “trendy” places, to see and be seen, rather than any pretense or consideration of the offerings. In fairness, this diner did not sample an actual “sushi” offering. Candidly, after THIS experience, there is NO reason for a return visit.

The best sushi in Vancouver! The pac rim beef burger was also very tasty and good quality.

Wanted to try the bento lunch with my friend and it did not disappoint. My friend ordered the sashimi bento and I, the miso sablefish bento. Sashimi was fresh and I especially loved the flavourful aburi sushi and sablefish. Good portion and well-priced. The only room for improvement area is that the miso soup can be served reasonably hot instead of lukewarm. When we mentioned this to our server Jess, she was quick to offer us another round of miso soup or dessert on the house. We did not plan on getting dessert but ended up getting the peach raspberry tart with sorbet to share. It was so pretty and delicious - light and airy, not too sweet, with a good amount of fresh fruit. We will have to make sure to leave room for dessert in our future visits. Had a very enjoyable lunch and the friendly, sincere, thoughtful, and attentive service really topped it off!

A great chill vibe with top quality food.! Some amazingly unique rolls, the wagu & prawn roll was one of the best I've had with such great flavors; the wagu gave it such a great umami flavor. A great band was playing that added to the wonderful ambiance.

Fish was well seasoned and prepared. No issues with their shari (rice) preparation. No freshness issues. Fried items were all done well, above average. Chicken karaage, agedashi tofu, and soft shell karaage were equally without faults. Service was prompt but not rushed. The overall experience was positive and I look forward to updating this review over time if I ever return. Would recommend a visit if looking for options in this area or price point.

This is the place to be if you are looking at the best sushi and sashimi in town! Crystal was serving us and she was hands-down one of the best servers we had. She recommended us pieces to try based on what liked and took the time to explain everything to us. She made sure we had everything we needed throughout the dinner. Thanks Crystal! The today's sashimi and aburi (torched) were so amazing that they will melt in your mouth. The food, service and ambiance were just the perfect combo of what you would want in a restaurant. Make sure to visit Temaki when you are in Vancouver!

Everything we ordered was fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The sashimi platter was a standout each cut was thick and buttery. The fresh oysters were plump and sweet with a perfect balance of ponzu and green onion, definitely some of the best I’ve had in Vancouver. The sushi rolls were simple yet delicious, with just the right amount of rice and fresh ingredients, and the udon soup was warm, comforting, and full of seafood umami. To finish, the panna cotta dessert was light, silky, and refreshing with citrus and pistachio notes. We didn’t really like the karage chicken 🥲 Highly recommend for date nights or dinners with friends!

Wow just wow! I had initially thought of going some place semi-fancy with a waterfront view for my birthday but decided that I just wanted really great food. This place delivered perfection! I appreciated the artistry that went into everything they prepared. The food tasted good for sure, but it was also the attention they paid to nuances like texture, the size and thickness of what they prepared that made them stand out. Even the spicy dipping sauce for the sushi was complex: neither overly spicy nor salty. I had their excellent agedashi tofu (crunchy outside, soft inside, sauce was delicious), a unagi nigiri that just melted in my mouth, and a special roll consisted of tempura shrimp, salmon, cucumber, and mango. Each layer was individually delicious. I kept flashing thumbs up to the chefs like an idiot because it was so good! Table service was also attentive and cordial. The dessert they graciously offered was light and delicate: panna cotta with pistachio nuts and orange balls sprinkled on top. Yum! Put together, it was a party for my mouth. Thank you for making my bday a delicious one. I'll be back!!

Temaki Sushi is my new favourite spot! The sushi was incredibly fresh and delicious, and the service was excellent. I highly recommend sitting at the sushi bar to watch the amazing chefs at work… it truly elevated the entire experience.

Temaki Sushi, nestled at 2156 W Broadway in Kitsilano, Vancouver, is a beloved local sushi spot offering casual, high-quality Japanese fare since 2003 . Known for its fresh fish—sashimi, nigiri, aburi-style seared pieces—and creative rolls, it regularly earns praise for attentive service and a friendly atmosphere . The menu also includes tempura, udon, donburi, and lunch combos, catering to a variety of tastes  . Whether dining in or grabbing take-out, customers often rave about presentation and consistent flavors—their sashimi “so fresh” and the nigiri rice-to-fish ratio “perfect” . Popular for both casual meals and group dining, Temaki Sushi blends tradition with innovation at affordable prices.

Visiting BC for holiday. Easy access from downtown via bus, wonderful dinner for six at around 240$CAD with toro, assorted sushi, sashimi…etc. ingredients from Japan with certification. Palm sized sushi just like the ones in Japan. Need to book well ahead

This is one of the few places in Vancouver where you can enjoy great food at very reasonable prices, despite the high cost of living. Chef Tom is not only friendly but also highly professional. He has been making sushi in Vancouver for many years and has also trained at a long-established sushi restaurant in Japan. It’s a family-run business, and now his son is also training to become a sushi chef. This restaurant has a deep understanding of Japanese food culture. You can enjoy your meal while chatting with him at the counter or relax at a table—either way is great. I really like this place.

The service here is so nice and calm and welcoming, and I love that you can watch the chefs freshly prepare your sushi. It’s a great spot for a group with different dietary preferences as they have lots of vegan options. I got the vegetarian combo, and got to sample a bit of all the different types. Delicious and different from the same old cucumber or yam rolls that you get at other sushi spots!

My sisters and I spent about an hour searching for the right sushi place to go to while in Vancouver. Kaide was exactly the vibe we were looking for. A cozy family feel where the hosts were super friendly and sweet each time someone walked in the door. The music was perfect and then of course the sushi was super tasty! The sashimi was buttery, the rice perfect, and we had to order the mango salmon rolls a second time. Definitely recommend.

Kaide Sushi on Richard Street in Downtown Vancouver is a fantastic dining option. The restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh and delicious sushi. The fish is always of high quality and the presentation is impeccable. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service throughout the meal. The ambiance is inviting and the restaurant is always clean. Overall, Kaide Sushi is a top-notch sushi restaurant in Downtown Vancouver.

This place has fresh fish and a good selection of menu items (they don't have cooked items like teriyaki beef, upon, etc). Portion size is reasonable, though pushing the price barrier a bit. It has a homey feel to it being family owned. They acknowledge your coming and going. You can find 2 hour free street parking by walking a short distance. #sushiVancouver

Visited twice within 2 weeks. Tried a few combos, overall food ingredients were nice & fresh. Horenso Gomaae, Unagi Don, Spicy Tuna Sashimi, Assorted Nigiri, Assorted Rolls.... all were very tasty. Miso soup was good at the first visit. It was too salty at the second time (a bit disappointed). There was quite a strong fishy smell when we stepped in the restaurant (the ventilation wasn't very good). Windows were not very clean. There were flies flying around that really annoyed us. One fly even landed on my almost finished Unagi Don... Service was attentive, especially from the owner (Master Chef). He was very friendly & courteous. If the ventilation is better (air-conditioned) & the entrance door can be kept closed to prevent flies from getting into the food, this restaurant is worth to visit.

For me, this place fell below the current standard of Sushi Vancouver. The overpriced Miso Soup was so concentrated that... I couldn't eat it (see pic.) I say overpriced because the $2.50 for a Miso Soup is above current prices in the city....moving on.... The Sushi itself was decent, but the environment took away from the quality of the dishes. It was dark, gloomy with lights burnt out and dusty tables. Our server was unfriendly and rushed us from beginning to end. The first thing that hit me after walking out disappointed was the thought that this place just needs some serious TLC. Maybe dust it off a bit.....metaphorically and literally.

Whimsical, unique, and delicious! Extensive menu beyond the one on their website. You can customize your Art Sashimi platter to accommodate your budget that is listed as Market Price. The food was fresh and delicious. The Original Foie Gras Nigiri was interesting, I typically enjoy foie gras but I thought the nigiri was a little imbalanced with the foie gras to rice ratio...a little too much foie gras which I really shouldn't be complaining about. The service was extra...everyone was so friendly, super accommodating, service was prompt and they were attentive.

Hands down the best Japanese restaurant in Vancouver. From food to the people, atmosphere the vibes. All of it was top notch. I rarely have place where I have nothing bad to say about a place and this was just it. If you want a nice higher end dining experience for yourself and/or with a date, definitely visit once if you have the chance!

We celebrated a birthday dinner at Octopus Garden and had a wonderful experience! The service was very friendly, and the atmosphere felt homey and warm — perfect for a special occasion. I loved almost every nigiri; everything was incredibly fresh and beautifully seasoned. The foie gras was definitely the highlight — absolutely amazing! The only thing I wished for was a bit more variety in cooked dishes, as most of the menu was cold food. Overall, though, it was an excellent meal and we’d love to come back again.

Octopus garden delivered an absolutely top-notch dining experience from start to finish. The tasting menu was full of creative and delicious surprises, with imaginative presentation and plating. Every dish was not only beautifully executed but also packed with incredible flavor. The service was just as impressive — friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The staff made the whole evening feel special and relaxed. Can’t wait to go back.

Every staff here, especially the chef, is so quirky and loveable — such great hospitality! Each dish is presented beautifully and with real care, making the experience as visually satisfying as it is delicious. Some portions may feel small for the price, but the authenticity this place delivers — in presentation, timing, and quality — truly reflects Japan. I appreciate it every time I visit. I think some of the negative comments about price come from not fully understanding or enjoying the experience and the craftsmanship behind it. For me, it’s absolutely worth it. 100% recommend and by far the Best Japanese food in Vancouver. I can't wait to go back 😊

This has been our go-to restaurant for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. The sushi is always fresh and delicious, with beautiful presentation and warm, welcoming service. A highlight of the experience is the conversation with Chef Sada — not only is he a talented sushi master, but also a wonderful entertainer! I highly recommend their omakase (chef’s choice). It fills both your heart and your stomach. Now I truly understand why they’ve been in business for 32 years in Kitsilano!

From the moment you walk into this restaurant, you can feel the heart and soul behind it. It’s not just a place to eat sushi — it’s a reflection of a life’s work. The owner, who is also the sushi chef, has poured himself into every detail: from the way each roll is prepared to the way the restaurant is decorated. You can tell that everything here has meaning. The atmosphere is calm, welcoming, and deeply personal. Every piece of decor feels like a story — a timeline of the chef’s passion and dedication to his craft. You can sense that this isn’t just a restaurant, it’s his art studio, his life, and his heart on display. And then there’s the sushi — absolutely incredible. The fish is fresh, the rice perfectly seasoned, and the presentation thoughtful in a way that makes you pause before taking a bite. Each plate feels handcrafted, not just made. What truly makes this place special, though, is the feeling. The service is warm and genuine, the chef takes pride in connecting with guests, and by the end of your meal, you feel like you’ve been invited into his world. It’s the kind of place that puts a smile on your face and makes you wish you could stay longer — not just because the food is amazing, but because of the people behind it. This isn’t just sushi; it’s a story, an experience, and a reminder of what passion looks like when it’s shared. I left inspired, grateful — and already planning my next visit.

Place was amazing - once I walked in I knew it was going to be good. Clean environment. Very friendly server. Telling us in depth about each dish and also chatting about the history of the restaurant. The best part was watching them make sushi for a takeout order - and how they carefully did a QA check on every single piece of sushi and talking about each piece. I love the dedication to excellence.

Eating at Yuwa was a glorious dining experience from start to finish. From the moment we walked in we were warmly welcomed and attentively cared for throughout our entire visit. Our server was so sweet, very knowledgeable and had glorious recommendations. The sushi was bursting with flavour —reflecting both the freshness and skill. The dessert had layers of depth, making every bite intriguing. If you get the chance to come to Yuwa I wouldn’t pass it up!

It’s a fine dining Japanese restaurant. Environment is very good. 4 of us have not been there before so asked for some recommendations. Shitake Nikuzume is tasty that is tempura chicken stuffed in Japanese mushroom doesn’t feel oily. Rest of sushi and salmon tartare do not feel very special but the ingredients used is fresh. Overall a bit pricey with the quality of food. Restaurant has outdoor sittings and inside has sushi bar sittings. Reservations are recommended

This is a cozy Japanese restaurant with excellent service, quality ingredients and expertly prepared food by people who obviously care. All of the dishes were tasty and I would be glad to order any of them again. The Wagyu Strip Loin Steak comes with a fun table side finish that the family thought fun. The Ebi Shinjo Bits were amazingly light and fluffy. The Tofu Avocado Salad has an amazingly crisp and refreshing dressing. Bill for everything down came to about $265 CAD, but given the quality of the did and service we would come back again.

We were visiting from Washington state. USA has won so many awards because of their authentic food that is wonderfully prepared and great service. I was also impressed. We will be back on our next trip !

Had Christmas eve dinner here. Service was great, the restaurant had a good ambience. Quality of the food was very inconsistent though. Sockeye salmon tartar and tori hot pot are great but not mind-blown. The tempura is a disaster. The coating is thick, oily and soggy. The wagyu striploin doesn’t taste like wagyu at all. The flavor and texture are more like the super lean grass fed beef from supermarkets. These ingredient and cooking technique flaws are not what we would expect from an upscale Japanese restaurant.

I went to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday, the ingredients are fresh, yummy! No wonder why Yuwa is chosen as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Vancouver. The staffs are welcoming and kind until we leave. It was such a great time❤️

Naruto Sushi is a small restaurant at the corner of a building. The interior looks pretty modern and cozy. I ordered takeout and it tasted great. I would recommend it if you're in the area wanting sushi.

Reasonably priced & fresh sushi place in Vancouver! Came here for special rolls and sashimi but their menu has lots of items. Too bad that they don't serve alcohol but we had a great time.

Terrible value and disappointing flavours. We ordered 1 chicken breast teriyaki don, 1 beef teriyaki don, 1 order of shrimp tempura and a miso soup. The beef teriyaki tasted like plain ground beef and had an unappetizing smell which resembles dog food. The shrimp tempura was soggy and limp—we had to reheat it ourselves. It still tastes bad. My boyfriend said this was the worst miso soup he has ever had. They advertise ‘seasonal vegetables’ in the don bowls but only give you a single piece of broccoli and carrot. For $57, this was an absolute joke. Do yourself a favor and order elsewhere

My wife and I eat sushi regularly enough to know when it's not good. I'm not saying we're experts, but we know enough. The restaurant is tiny. But the atmosphere is what you'd expect from a restaurant named "Naruto". Yes I know that the character from the show is named after the pink and white piece in ramen, but they like anime as well so I'd wager it has a double meaning. The staff, in our experience, was very friendly, very professional. The prices were reasonable. I'm very happy with our experience. Keep up the great work Naruto sushi! We'll be back! 😂

Best service, location, food and everything! We went there for early dinner and everything was great and tasty! I love their Miso Soup and veggies tempura 🍤 amazing!!! The service was friendly and welcoming, we were happy and enjoyed to be there! Must try their green tea cheesecake, love it. 100% will be there again soon! ❤️

I ordered takoyaki on DoorDash, but it had no flavor at all. There wasn’t enough sauce or bonito flakes, and the octopus was practically nonexistent. I had to add some Kewpie mayo from my fridge just to get any taste.

The restaurant is small but cozy! If you're on a budget and looking for good sushi, you should definitely try this place. Naruto posters hanged on their walls were a plus for me! Hehe Will be back to rry their other selections!

The service and quality were both excellent! I went there to celebrate my boyfriend's birthday. It was a wonderful memory and experience. The chef was very professional and it was fun to chat with him!

We had an amazing experience at Sushi Jin! It was my boyfriend’s birthday today, and we made a reservation in advance for their omakase. Both the chef and his wife were incredibly warm and friendly, which made the evening even more special. The ingredients were super fresh, and everything tasted delicious. We especially loved their wasabi and homemade ginger — such a nice touch! It was also a pleasure to watch the chef carefully prepare each dish — truly a beautiful and enjoyable experience. Since they only serve six guests at a time, it’s really quiet and private, which made it feel even more special. Highly recommend!

My first Michelin omakase experience began at Sushi Jin. The hostess kindly assisted us in savoring the flavors properly, and the chef thoroughly explained the origins and details of the ingredients, allowing us to comfortably enjoy the food. The seasoning of the dishes was neither lacking nor excessive, making it perfect for tasting the flavors of the fish. Each menu item had a special taste, but the top-grade uni had an unprecedented texture and sweetness, and the bluefin tuna melted in the mouth like butter. I was grateful for the chance to taste even the homemade ginger pickles, which were made with great care. It’s a pity that I can only give it five stars. From Waterloo

The sushi was super clean and fresh, and it literally melted in my mouth! There was no fishy aftertaste at all, which I really appreciated. You can tell they really care about giving the best experience to people who make a reservation — that’s what makes omakase so special. They even gave us tips on how to enjoy the sushi better, which made it even more fun. Thank you! 🥰

My first experience at this restaurant. The food quality is very good, atmosphere is normal nothing fancy but the service(his wife) was bad. She’s very cheap when asking for refill on tea and gingers and she’s give me that dirty looks and they charge you automatically 18% tips. At the end it’s NOT worth $370 per person.

Sushi Jin is the goat. Chef always makes a great meal when we’re there for omakase. Each course is carefully made and presented. Chef is actually really funny and loves to talk. His wife serves and explains many things. Overall a great experience, slightly more high end than your normal sushi but definitely worth the experience.

This omakase is on the pricey side, but it was so worth it for the experience and quality. Each service sits 5 people and Chef Jin serves you. You get to see his techniques closely. He shares the story behind his choices and gives you some details too. The quality of fish and sauces is the best I've had. Even certain items I usually don't like, I still loved during this meal because they were such high quality. He creates unique sauces to compliment each piece of fish. I've tried a few other omakase places before and they were only okay to me and they cost around $150-200. So even though this was more expensive, I think it is worth the price. I appreciate his unique take on the omakase and how he takes feedback from his customers into consideration.

Booked Sushi Hil to try their Michelin-recommended Japanese food, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. Sitting at the counter was like watching a live show — the chefs’ skills and precision are amazing. The sushi was excellent, with incredibly fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice that’s more than just sweet and sour. Every piece was balanced and matched beautifully with the seafood. Highly recommended! Reservation is must.

Came here for lunch for their sets. We got their daily lunch set for 75$, the chirashi set and the Nagasaki bluefin tasting. The quality of the fish is exceptional and every dish was well executed! For the price, I think it is on the pricier side for what you get. Would definitely not come here regularly but more for a special occasion. Would recommend the lunch set for the variety and quality though. Loved their house roll!!

Came here for lunch with a friend. We shared the crudo, steak tataki, bluefin roll, super tuna roll, and king BC roll between two people. Everything was decent. The fish tasted fresh and the ingredients seemed to be of good quality. But to be honest, nothing really stood out. We also found it a bit pricey for what we got, and we didn’t feel full afterward. Maybe the lunch set which the staff recommended would’ve been a better choice.

Amazing sushi, very high quality food, and great service. We loved every thing we ordered and would absolutely return. It’s a very small restaurant and didn’t have the best ambiance—there was no music playing when we arrived, and until every table was full it was very quiet. You felt almost like you had to whisper. Otherwise, we had an awesome time!

Michelin-recommended Sushi Hil is renowned for its commitment to premium, expertly prepared Edomae-style sushi. A truly unforgettable experience for any serious sushi lover! The ambiance is stylish yet intimate, making it the perfect date night destination. Enjoy their famous selection of inventive house specials. A must-visit for elevated Japanese dining!

One of my new fave spots in van and will definitely be back! The foie gras nigiri was especially life changing, I had to order another! Super fresh and delicious, and great attentive service. The hamachi crudo and tuna makimono were yummy, but the nigiri was the star of the show (can’t go wrong with any type)!

Food quality is just average, fresh but not worth the price（expect urchin), 200+ for 2 ppl…you can have better choices. Narrow space, don’t come before they text you, otherwise you have to wait outside in the cold. Don’t spend special events here, cause the compliment dessert will definitely disappoint you. The most spoiling thing is when we just finished our food and reponded no more order needed, the servant asked us to bill immediately… the whole dinner only takes 45mins while we waited for 20mins to be seated. Overall not recommend

I suggest booking online for reservations. We booked for 7 PM but we got there an hour early and they were still able to seat us within 15 minutes or so. And you get to skip the line as well because there is a line for reservations and walk ins. My partner and I were celebrating something special on top of Thanksgiving! Alicia Fye (I believe her name was) was an excellent waitress! She was super cheery, helpful with recommendations and super generous by throwing in a little dessert to celebrate the occasion. She often checked in on us if we needed anything and I’d basically give her an equivalent of a Michelin star for service! The view of Coal Harbour was phenomenal and it was quite intimate as well. Food tasted amazing as well! Everything was delightful!

We had a great experience at Cactus Club Cafe in Vancouver! The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the staff were super friendly and attentive. We ordered a few dishes, and everything was fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented. The service was quick, and the overall vibe made our visit really enjoyable. Definitely a place I’d love to visit again!

My family and friends dined here the evening before our Rocky Mountaineer departure the next morning. We had a wonderful entry to Canadian cuisine in a relaxed setting overlooking the harbour. I thoroughly enjoyed my belini, ravioli appetizer, trout, and chocolate dessert. The service was excellent too making sure that we had an enjoyable experience. Whenever I visit Canada again, I will make sure to stop by the Cactus Club!

The atmosphere and service were excellent! I took lots of pictures and really enjoyed the beautiful ocean view. The drink, main course, and dessert were all delicious and full of flavor. Highly recommended!😊

It was a wonderful place to celebrate my achievement as the Overall Champion of Canada 2025 (Bodybuilding Bikini Athlete). I loved the atmosphere—such a beautiful place with delicious food! The only downside was that we had to wait outside for about 15–25 minutes before being seated. The most modern and beautiful washroom in Canada. It reminds me of Dubai.

Cactus Club is a great spot with delicious food and a beautiful view. I highly recommend the beef with lobster—such a perfect combo! The fish tacos are also excellent, full of flavor and really fresh, best chicken wings and fried calamari. And don’t miss the dessert—their signature chocolate cake with ice cream is amazing, rich and satisfying. Great place for a relaxed meal by the water! The main course was so good that I forgot to take pictures!

Michelle PR was our server. Wow! She was fast and super nice - brand new employee but would have never known (she told us lol). Holy cow the food came quickly and was delicious. We ordered from the happy hour menu and our bill was under $32 each with two drinks!!!!! Come and enjoy here.

Atmosphere is good but service is slow and not active at all, we had to wait 40 mins for food and had to call the servers twice to refill water. Paella has only two tiny shrimps with cost of $28, extremely not worth it. That is why Sat lunch time with only two tables of guests. Both food and service need to be improved.

The restaurant has a beautiful and cozy ambiance. The dishes are highly specialized with unique flavors, though the portions are a bit small 😉. I especially loved the distinct taste of the octopus and halibut—truly exceptional!

What. An. Experience! I visited this restaurant about a year ago and, honestly, wasn’t too impressed back then. But coming back now… what a difference! The food, presentation, and overall experience have improved so much. I tried the ceviche, octopus, lobster roll, and seafood pasta, and every single dish was exceptional. The ceviche was fresh, the octopus perfectly tender, and the lobster roll had amazing sauces, I didn’t even want to add soy sauce. The seafood pasta was beautifully plated and rich in flavor. It’s clear that the kitchen has stepped up in both creativity and execution. Everything looked stunning and tasted even better. On top of that, great service! Our waiter was funny and very knowledgeable, made great suggestions. Definitely worth revisiting if you haven’t been in a while!

This used to be one of our favourite spots and I’m concerned it may be losing its touch. For the price range, it feels like Ancora is squeezing every dollar and the service just wasn’t what it used to be. The seafood platter had an unusually small ceviche, and it was just bizarre to have a handful of corn nuts filling the space. I hope the owners can turn it around because we would love to see this place return to its former glory.

Ancora never disappoints! The food, atmosphere, and service are all top-notch, but what truly makes the experience unforgettable is Kiera. She is hands-down the best server you could ask for—professional, warm, and incredibly attentive. She has this amazing ability to make you feel like the only table in the restaurant, and her recommendations are always spot on. It’s no wonder Kiera is so highly sought after—she turns a great night out into an exceptional experience. If you’re coming to Ancora, ask for Kiera. She’s a true gem!

Best patio in Vancouver, the food is so tasty, my highlights were the Branzino, the Peruvian classic ceviche, and the tartare, Oscar was our server, He was super kind and attentive, explained us every dish and made our evening more pleasant :)

Amazing food and drink But more amazing is the service. Cheers ! have a Garrido Guapo ! It will change your life, or your afternoon ….. award winning 💙

Visited Jinya Ramen in downtown Vancouver and had a really good overall experience. The service was excellent — the staff was friendly, attentive, and made sure we felt welcome throughout our meal. The decor is modern, clean, and has a cozy yet lively atmosphere that makes it a nice spot to relax and enjoy a bowl of ramen. I tried the Tofu Curry Tamen, and it was the highlight of the meal. The broth was rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice. The tofu was cooked well and soaked up the flavors beautifully. We also ordered a couple of their meat-based ramen options. While the texture of the noodles and toppings were great, the broth on those was a bit too salty for my personal taste — it overpowered some of the other flavors in the bowl. Overall, it’s a great place for ramen lovers, especially if you enjoy bold flavors and a vibrant dining space. I’d definitely return for the Tofu Curry Tamen and to try a few other items on the menu.

Food is slightly overpriced for the quantity and quality. I do like their happy hour drinks price, so they got an extra star for that. The broth too was salty and the noodles weren't cooked that well. Other then that, service in general was decent.

I always visit Jinya whenever I'm in Vancouver. The food is generally really good. Most recently I ordered Pork Chashu Bowl regular size, and it was delicious. It's decently sized and quite fulfilling for a quick lunch. The service is good, but the atmosphere is just downright annoying. Loud music and the close proximity to other tables are just not comfortable.

(Forgot to take pics before we mixed it) Always an amazing experience at JINYA, hands down the best ramen in town. I’ve yet to find anything that compares! I always go for the spicy chicken ramen, it never disappoints. Also love the free fresh garlic! The atmosphere is great, the vibes are on point, and the staff and service are consistently top-notch. JINYA has truly been a staple for our family.

Walking by in downtown Vancouver, Jinya caught my eye. Browsed the menu, immediately went inside. The food was excellent, the service top-notch and friendly. Kudos to Light, my server. Excellent experience all-round.

The ramen was authentic, and the gyoza was absolutely delicious made I wanted to order 10 more plates! The service was also excellent. I was really impressed and definitely want to come back again. Great location, beautifully decorated restaurant, and the staff were enthusiastic and attentive

One of the best Ramen I have had. I always get their Jinya Tonkatsu black! The meat melts in your mouth. You can easily go up to level 6-7 spice. I tried their level 6 spice and it was flavorful with the perfect spice kick.

Great vibe, dim inside but we sat on the patio on a cool April day and it was very warm and covered. The service was fast and friendly, delicious food, everything we had was excellent. I got the beef curry bowl and we also shared some chili paper, bag fries, avocado roll, and edamame. I would skip the edamame. They were cold and didn’t have a lot of flavor. The avocado roll was so creamy and the rice was very fresh and not hard like some sushi places make it. The paper bag fries are delicious. The hot stone bowls are all mixed table side, which is kind of a cool effect. And it stays really hot because the stone bowl keeps the heat. I’ve been wanting to go for a while based on many recommendations from people and I also would recommend it. Thanks guys!

A very nice place in the heart of Yaletown. Unfortunately we didn't have a chance to try the food menu, but they offer very affordable drinks each night. The owner is very friendly, as we're the staff. Great place to hangout. Will definitely come back and try their dinner menu.

If you are looking for trendy, happening place in Downtown Vancouver, there is no better spot than Hapa Izakaya, Yaletown. Reservations are a must. Vibes are great and the food lives up to its expectations. It is a bit noisy, go there for fun, and not if you are looking for a quiet place to eat. Their Mushroom Rice is to die for and not to be missed at any cost. The mains were better than the desserts. Service is quick and great. Highly recommend a visit to this place.

It’s been more than 15 years since I last visited and while the location has changed, the food and service remains at a very high level. I just hope I don’t have to wait another 15 years to eat there again

I came here with my friend for a girls' night out. We ordered their Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps, Tiger Roll, Fries, and Almond Pudding with Matcha Ice Cream as the dessert. The ambience is really like modern izakaya. The experience is good since the service is amazing. We really like the pork belly and the pudding. Recommended for delight snacks and hang out.

Food was good, the avocado dip was amazing, would come back for it. The carpaccio was also fabulous, easily one of the best raw fish dish ive had. The sold shell crab was unique and delicious, the oshi was mediocore, ive had better and the wings were carried by the sauce, chicken was tuff and dry, the sauce was delicious. Service was good, however the atmosphere is interesting, music is very loud, and very weird.

A meal before our meal. Hapa hour from 5 - 6 p.m. Waiting for our dinner reservation we stopped by here to kill time, have some appies…washed down with one too many cocktails and people watched. An ideal day if you ask me:)

Had a great experience with the Dine Out Menu. Really yummy fishes. Great presentation. The pairing sakes were a great match. The service is amazing, they explained very well each dish before serving. We did order a roll on the side that came with a little too much Wasabi, and it overpowered the experience.

Great lunch spot. Not super fancy but good quality and good value. Impressed with the portion size and variety of sashimi and tempura in the Bento A. Even had two small pieces of hamachi! Good proportions of rice and rolls. Would go again for lunch.

I got dinner on my birthday! It was great with lot of dishes and when i recommended sashimi they gave amazing sashimi

We had dine out the other day. The dining experience at Bistro Sakana was delightful, with exceptional food that impressed us. However, the server's request for payment right after dessert felt a bit abrupt, slightly affecting the overall ambiance. Despite this, the culinary offerings make it a recommended choice for those who prioritize excellent cuisine.

Went here for Dine Out and it was amazing! We loved the smoked salmon sashimi, Sushi Platter and the yuzu cheesecake the most. Very good value and delicious food. The atmosphere and service was outstanding. Very nice and friendly wait staff. We will definitely be back to try out their regular menu!

I thought Bistro Sakana was okay. I wouldn't object to going back but also wouldn't be my first choice. My dining companion really liked it. I liked that the service was attentive and the menu options were very extensive! The food was hit and miss. I was excited by many of the offerings but was sometimes disappointed by the taste. The beef tataki was gorgeously presented. The tempura was fun to eat, but the batter was too thick for my personal preference. And the oysters on the half shell were perfectly shucked. And if you really like overly sauced goma-ae, give theirs a whirl. I prefer mine to have a bit of dressing with my spinach and not vice versa.

This place is so affordable!! 7.5$-15$ service is super fast, and the food was so amazing!!!! Like honestly this place deserves 5 stars. I recommend the blue fin tuna and the scallop dish!!

The GP used to be a great place. It had a fun vibe that did a real spin on Japanese cuisine. A few months ago they managed to completely forget my food at a table of people so I got a little turned off by them and figured I'd wait a few months before trying again. I dropped in yesterday and was thoroughly disappointed. It took two attempts and twenty minutes before a member of the waitstaff took our order, the table we sat at was filthy and sticky, and I had to keep going back into the restaurant to get anyone's attention. I'd be willing to forgive this if the place was jam packed, but there were 5 tables going. The food's fine but my issues here have been consistently service related and I'm making this review as a mental reminder to never go back. For what you're paying, there are so many other businesses worth your time and money.

I had high hopes coming here, but unfortunately, The General Public was a disappointment for sushi in Vancouver. The sushi itself was the weakest point. The rolls looked messy and lacked refinement, with presentation that felt rushed rather than thoughtful. The fish didn’t taste fresh or high-quality, and sauces were overused, masking the flavour instead of complementing it. For a city known for excellent sushi, this was a letdown. The space is quirky with colourful, eclectic decor and had only a few tables occupied. Our group was the largest one there. Service was friendly and welcoming, which I appreciated, but my rating is strictly based on the food. Street parking is available but is paid. Overall, while the staff were pleasant, the food did not meet expectations and I wouldn’t return for sushi.

I have only been here a few times, but I am always impressed with their take on the business in which they so intelligently and successfully execute! Their price point is great and they build everything on their menu to perfectly share. They are willing to optimize their items to peoples dietary restrictions in what they may be... Thank you again for the amazing and perfectly balanced yummy moms guys! Great job and keep that crazy unique and outlandish fusion coming! I will be back💋

Amazing food and place Service is excellent We tried veg sushi platter, portions were great Highly recommended that you visit

Omg you need to come here!! It’s an experience in the best way. The food is incredible and the atmosphere and staff are off the charts. It’s not your normal sushi place and I mean that in the best way possible. You really owe it to yourself to come with friends and just try like everything. They have so many unique stand outs and even the picky eaters can find amazing and delicious food.

By the way, this is vegetarian review 10/10 lots of options. The interior of the restaurant is totally vibe, pinata and neon decor all over tvs playing old Elvis movies. On the day we went Saturday night, there was dj So, overall, the vibe was great For appetizers, we had veggie croquettes and fat Elvis (tempura avocado) Those croquettes were delicious, like eating large fries but filled with mash potatoes⭐️⭐️⭐️ The avocado tempura is good as well⭐️ We ordered three sushi rolls for dinner Roll de soli: it was like an Italian roll with sun-dried tomatoes with aiol drizzled on top of my favorite roll of the night⭐️⭐️⭐️ The moby: it was mushroom roll it was good aswell The beet it rolls: this was a beet roll. I haven't seen beets in sushi, so I was excited it was light for me it was best with a dash of soy sauce. Personally, I wish the rolls were packed a bit tighter. Overall, it was delicious. There are plenty of vegetarian options and vegan options and not just basic veg options. All the them creative and wonderful. We did have to wait a bit for some of our dishes, but it was a busy night, so that's fine The prices are fair for unique funky restaurants on a popular street. From what I saw, I believe the restaurant is accessible for people with disabilities it also had handicap washroom. One thing i would say is that the starting tip percentage was 18%, and that's a bit high. Let's go back to 10-15-20. Overall, I had a great time here. I would love to bring others here again.😄

Went here once for a birthday. It was so loud you literally couldn't talk to the person beside you unless you were yelling in their ear. I don't know why a sit down restaurant needs a DJ. Food was fine but not memorable and felt overpriced. I haven't gone back even though every once and a while someone says they love this place. Avoid if you want to protect your hearing and actually want high quality sushi.

We have visited this place a couple of times, and each time, we were disappointed with both the sushi quality and service. We ordered three rolls, including a crispy roll, which had an unpleasant taste, as if the oil hadn’t been changed in a while. The sushi rice wasn’t sticky enough, and the fish and crab in the Dynamite and California rolls didn’t taste fresh. We asked for tea twice because it wasn’t steeped properly, yet both times, it remained the same. I've never had a bad experience with sushi anywhere. I really appreciate your time and effort, but you need to check the quality of food again.

Sashimi dinner box is delicious. This sashimi dinner box is definitely one of my favourite. The Sashimi is fresh. I also ordered the teriyaki chicken don, and it offered buy one get one free on Uber eats. It is good enough for two ppl to share with. And food quality is good. High recommend!!!

We were there for a birthday dinner, and we had were hoping for a fancy dinner without the hefty price tag. First of all, the service was amazing. Our server made sure to wish my friend happy birthday, and she was so sweet and genuine throughout the whole experience. She was actually an angel and the nicest person I’ve ever met. She made sure everyone was well taken care of and did an excellent job at taking care of us. Our water was never empty and our orders came fast. She even gave my friend a free ice cream as a surprise. The food was also phenomenal. The salmon oshi was creamy and delicious, the green salad was fresh and sooo generously portioned. Every dish had beautiful plating. I also tried the salmon lover roll which I will definitely add to my regular takeout order. The Black Cod was. To. Die. For. I’m not sure what they put in that sauce, but it was so savoury, juicy and delicious. The fish was incredibly tender, the fish literally melted in my mouth. Don’t even get me started on the drinks. For that price, the Moscow Mule was so worth it. We had an amazing time, the ambience was so relaxing yet fun. We loved the soft jazz in the background. Overall, great birthday experience from my favourite restaurant!

This Japanese restaurant offers a rare and impressive vegetarian menu – the vegetable rolls were exceptionally fresh and delicious! Special mention to Chef Look, who was not only knowledgeable and engaging but also incredibly humorous. His passion truly elevated our dining experience. Highly recommended!

I ordered their Sushi Combo A for takeout on Snappy It comes with 3 pieces of each of the following: tuna roll, salmon roll, California roll, and kappa roll. With 2 pieces of each tuna and salmon nigiri. And topped with a small salad and miso soup. The order was prepared super fast <10mins and the staff were kind. I really wanted to like what I ordered for lunch, but I would be lying to myself. The fish used in both the tuna and salmon felt very lacking. It didn't wasn't flavorful, it was thinly cut, and it didn't feel fresh... They even put in the effort of placing a dab of wasabi under the fish for the nigiri, but yet the food itself didn't taste like effort... It was a little sad...

Amazing service, sushi rolls were incredible, and the ambiance was so lovely. Would definitely recommend!

The dishes are delicious. I ordered the house special combo, which was delicious and beautiful. The service was excellent and attentive. I will come again next time.

Wow! We enjoyed the food so much we went there 2 nights in a row, out of 4 nights total in Vancouver. The hand rolls are so good, and the salmon Oshi was divine! The mochi calls were the best we ever had, especially the strawberry and the vanilla. Service is friendly, and the atmosphere is modern casual. Beautiful decor!

This was a very great experience and I would recommend it. The reason I gave it a 3 stars instead of 5 was that for the price, you’re paying for an experience. The actual food is decent but not something that can’t be easily duplicated at home. The experience is good though, so everyone should try it out, there’s a reason why it’s so popular. I ordered the 6 set and out of the 6 rolls, I found 4 of them were really good but the other 2 seemed like it came from a can. The lobster one and the crab one. No texture and didn’t taste very good. The service was impeccable. But $170 later for 4 people, that could have been a decent sushi experience elsewhere. The stools were very uncomfortable to sit on. Not sure about others but a hard wooden stool is not that comfortable. I would call this a “one and done” experience. No need to repeat this experience for me.

Yesterday I had a quick and fun dinner. The Hello Nori atmosphere is indescribable. All the staff are very friendly and cordial. Always checking if we need something else, with a sincere and friendly smile. And the daily special of yesterday was amazing! Always surprise me with the daily specials. It's really special.

Amazing place, I try 6 hand rolls menu. The flavors, textures & ingredients… all a magnificent art. Mariana was the one who gave such an excellent service. I’ll recommend this place 100%.

I really liked the concept of the place. The handmade sushi keeps the rice warm, the seaweed crunchy, and the fish tastes very fresh. The drinks are really creative and have a lot of variety. The atmosphere is very relaxing, and the service was kind, helpful, and friendly. Also, Kevin was the best server 😌 I highly recommend the scallop and the octopus handroll 💖

I was in Vancouver for 6 days and I had lunch here 5 of them. Phenomenal hand rolls, the best I have ever had. Friendly and attentive staff and a great cocktail menu as well. If you like fish and are visiting Vancouver you NEED to check out HELLO NORI. Thank me later

Been here so many times and it never disappoints! The service is friendly and the atmosphere is inviting. The sushi station is in the middle of the restaurant and the bar seating wraps around it on all 3 sides. Like dinner and a “show” since you can watch the sushi chef make the sushi in front of you. Love that the sushi rice is still warm, and the nori is fresh with a nice crisp to it. The portion is perfect for individual dining. Perfect for a quick bite. It’s always exciting to dine here cause you don’t know what the daily special is going to be. My fav is when they have the wagyu beef special.

Delicious sushi, great service, nice restaurant! The sushi here was so delicious and the prices were very good for the quality! They had a bunch of specials and combos. We loved our lunch here and I would come back for sure.

This is my go-to spot for comfort food. The service is always excellent, and the cozy atmosphere makes it even more enjoyable. It’s definitely a place you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Let’s go! 🍣🍱👍🏻👌

What a lovely find! The sushi was fresh and delicious. The rolls were creative and beautiful. The service was very attentive. They have an affordable saki tasting flight if you want to try different saki. The atmosphere is simple and clean. Lots of GF options too.

This is the place to go if you want to have excellent sushi and great service. The food was high quality, beautiful, and delicious. We really appreciated that they use sockeye salmon and not farmed salmon.

Amazing lunch specials!! $14.95. The food quality is perfect! 👨🏻‍🍳🥢🍜🍣🥟🏯🍚Love the paper to-go boxes also (thanks for reducing plastic)

Really impressed. Very good sushi quality and presentation. I sat at the counter and watched the chefs at work - focussed, concentrated and professional. One chef was also doing some serving and taking away plates etc. I was very pleased and appreciative to see him don fresh gloves every time he went back to food prep. Fish was tasty, generous and well presented. Prices very reasonable. Will be back next time in YVR.

Best sushi in town !!! Their mango roll is a mus try. The server Joy gives great recommendations and makes the experience tenfold better

We dined here yesterday, Dec 23, 2024, around 11pm. The server was extremely rude and unprofessional! She talked to us like we weren’t worth her time and as if we were stupid. We politely inquired about the presence of raw egg in two of their dishes. While she initially denied the inclusion of raw egg in the first dish, she became increasingly agitated when my friend asked the same question about her chosen dish. She responded with a loud and dismissive "NO EGG!!!" 😳 Basic service expectations, such as setting the table properly, were neglected. She delivered our orders without any courtesy or apology, simply placing them in front of us. To our dismay, I discovered a small plastic bag in my food. When we brought this to her attention, she responded with an incredibly dismissive "So do you want a new one?" with a significant amount of sass. There was absolutely no apology offered for this unacceptable error. It was ABSOLUTELY INFURIATING!!! This server's behavior was truly appalling and completely ruined our dining experience. I sincerely hope her conduct is addressed appropriately.

Good price and nice food. We ordered 2 sets of Day Special - Udon, adding $5 with 2 side dishes included (one side dish needs additional $3) and 1 Sushi Bento. There are several options of side dishes for the Udon, and we selected deep fried shrimp, 2 sets Octopus yaki and cucumber sushi. The deep fried shrimps are very crispy and yummy. Udon is also good. For the Sushi Bento, the salmon and tuna sashimi is very fresh. The Bento with misu soup included and the soup is good too, but if it is hotter, that will be more yummy. Overall, the price of each dish is not expensive and the portion of the dishes is large, it is a good option for friends and family lunch or dinner gathering.

I had the vegetarian bento box. Spring rolls were crispy, served with mayo dip. Fresh salad, avocado roll, tofu teriyaki, rice, miso soup and vegetarian gyoza. Everything was delicious, however, the gyoza were over-fried- the sauce however was wonderful. Surprised that the veg box is $1 more than the meat teriyaki version! Friendly staff, young lady was eager to refill tea, and remove dishes. Went to the bathroom, and noticed peeling paint, out of order urinal, and many cushions peeling throughout the restaurant. Hopefully more attention to maintenance.

Amazing sushi, good prices and lovely environment! We got the roll roll party platter, everything was super flavourful, and it was a really good sized portion for three people. I will be coming back!!

What s delightful surprise! We found this place after 10 pm on a Friday night when most of the other restaurants were closed. We wanted to have ramen but finding a place that’s ipen late seemed near impossible until we came across Mesa. The decor is really authentic and cute. The prices are fair and the portions are great! I highly recommend checking them out!

I ordered the assorted katsu curry. About 20$. Food is pretty average. However, no complaints.

I love to come here!! They have a lot of food, everything was delicious. They have a big and clean facility. If you want to eat good food, visit here! I honestly this this restaurant has the best sushi ever.

We couldn’t decide on what to eat and just randomly chose to come here. This was our first time coming to this restaurant. We came here at around 3:30pm on a weekday. The food was fantastic! Everything came out quickly. Everything came out piping hot! Service wasn’t the best but was good enough for us. Prices were reasonable for what they give and for the portions they give. It was a great overall first visit experience. We will definitely be back to try other items on their menu.

Went there on Monday evening and it seemed busy, but we were able to get a table right away. The food was good, especially the ebi mayo, and the ikura was very fresh and high quality. However, the volcano rolls were a letdown. They should fix the washrooms — the women’s washroom was out of order, and the men’s washroom door couldn’t close, so only the accessible washroom was usable. One more thing: the server should be more careful when spraying sanitizer to clean the tables, as it can easily reach customers sitting nearby.

We beat the rush by getting there around 530pm on a Friday, the service was great, the food came fast and it was yummy. Definitely will go again when I am near. Dragon roll was awesome

From the moment you walk into this sushi place, you're greeted with such warm smiles and cheerful hellos that you can't help but smile back. It's not just the staff—I'll never forget the bright, welcoming smile of the manager as well. Over the past month, my family and I have already been here three times for sushi. I even have plans to come again later this week by myself. Our whole family loves sushi, but what really amazes me is how we never get tired of it—even after eating it so often. I used to think it was just me, but last time I was picking up our order, another woman waiting beside me turned and said, “I come here all the time. It's always delicious, and I never get tired of it.” I couldn’t agree more.

I can’t say enough about TonTon. Always fresh, always fast and the service is fantastic. We’ve been going there for years and have never been disappointed. Jiwon and staff are always great and attentive 👍👍👍👍👍

Excellent Roll Selection! We will definitely come again. We have also had take out a few times from this place. Always good service. Usually very busy but not too long of a wait for a table.

Got takeout from this sushi spot in Vancouver for a lake picnic, and even after the drive, everything was still super crispy and delicious! The tempura was still crunchy, which was kinda surprising in the best way. Honestly, one of the best sushi spots in Van. Even though we were headed all the way to Langley, getting takeout from here was such a good call!

Saw this place recommended to me online and wanted to try as it was promoted as a “bang for your buck” omakase. I would agree with this if the portions weren’t incredibly small. The rice ratio was far too much compared to the fish portion. Rice could use some work too, as it often had a gummy texture. The biggest issue was the ratio of rice to fish, we made the fish portion seem more lacking. Towards the end of the service, there was a toro hand roll. They ran out of rice and microwaved some rice to use for the hand roll, and there was noticeably little fish inside the roll. I assume they ran out or decided to give smaller portions, similar to the rest of our dishes. While I took a pictures of each dish, the hand roll one was most shocking with the reheated rice and little fish portion that I was too baffled to take a picture. Changing reservations months ahead was tough. You are pretty much ghosted even after contacting several times. They did have some unique cuts of fish that were interesting to try though, and the uni was fresh. Service from the waitress was also very kind and we appreciated that, but the food portions and quality don’t reflect the omakase experience you would typically expect.

I came here for the lunch set at $65, and waited around 15 minutes for the first course to be served. And yes “You get what you pay for” is right. It’s an affordable omakase to try out, but calling it good quality is absolutely not the case. A few of the fish tasted off, so the chef added lemon zest on top to mask the strong smell. Sadly, it couldn't help anything.

Pretty good for the price. The portions were good and the chef was receptive to feedback regarding ginger, wasabi, rice. Although the fish was mid tier, it is still fresh and would highly recommend. They were down a person so service was a bit slow. Getting a reso will be hard due to the popularity of the restaurant. Parking was easy to find so no worries when driving. Washroom is small and you will also need to walk through the kitchen to get to the washroom so do go to the washroom before arriving.

We got their lunch omakase. Fantastic omakase experience in a small and cozy restaurant. The ingredients were very fresh, and each course felt carefully prepared with thoughtful and sometimes innovative combinations. Flavours were great throughout.

I have a lot of admiration for self-taught chefs, but this experience fell short of what I would expect from an omakase. The chef’s technique felt rough around the edges, with inconsistent presentation. When we arrived, the fish had already been cut and left sitting on the counter for at least 30 minutes before service, and the overall prep area was messy. Water was flicked while handling rice, and surfaces weren’t wiped down afterwards. As someone who understands Cantonese, I could also hear disorganized communication behind the counter between the chef and two staff members (possibly family). For example, they realized they’d forgotten green onions, debated whether the store next door sold them, then sent someone out to buy some—only for the chef to criticize the size of the cut when she returned. It added to a feeling of chaos. Some items, like the uni, did not seem fresh. The colour was greyed, most of the package had already been used, and it looked similar to the kind sold at T&T. Also how do you mess up miso soup? Their miso soup was a bit oily and bland. It also had no garnishes like traditional miso soup. And the hojicha ice cream was the size of a ping pong ball. Tiny. Why even serve it. The overall dining experience lasted about two hours, but my partner and I left still hungry. The pacing was very slow, and the value wasn’t there for the price. The only positive was the Japanese waitress—she was kind, attentive, and consistently refilled our tea and ginger. It was uncomfortable, however, to see another staff member (the chef’s mom?) speak to her rudely in front of guests. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t return. There are much better omakase and sushi options in the Lower Mainland that offer stronger technique, freshness, and value.

Amazing omakase experience for amazing price. I love the attention to details and the chef really showed that he cares for each dish. Everything was beautifully presented, great service as well. Cute cozy little restaurant.

Don’t listen to the haters. Awesome Omakase experience. The chef really showed that he cared for each dish and the value was great. Telling all my friends about this place. Look at this perfect piece of sushi. Only thing I wished they had was sake or beer offering.

First off, a thumbs up to the team for their hard work improving the food quality and menu since the relaunch of new sushi Mahana. Thus, five star for the effort. This was my second visit since the relaunch. I was curious how much has changed since the soft launch. I was quite excited reading the description on the menu as it looked interesting on paper. Sake wise, the menu is much smaller than what it was in the past but they are still good sake choices. I think all the cooked dishes tasted great. It was huge improvement and the chef done a good job of infusing japanese and western ingredients while keeping the dish Japanese. It was good fusion in my opinion. It looked like the chef also had kaiseki experience based on the plating style and balancing of flavour. As for the nigiri, it was also an improvement though there is still a gap. Hopefully with time, it will match closer to what it was before. The dessert was well received. We all enjoyed it . For my wish list, I still hope for something filling towards the end of meal. Can be something basic like udon in dashi broth for example. I look forward to seeing what other surprises it brings next.

Sushi Mahana reimagined under chef Yuki’s leadership is a welcomed beacon for Japanese cuisine in the North Shore. What a triumph of a soft opening we have attended. The new approachable omakase menu speaks to what the clientele in the shore needs: local produce, integrity of cookery, inventiveness, interactive dining, challenging palates, and flawless service. Everything is seasonal, so expect the best of the unexpected. For our experience in June 2025, height of spot prawn season, the ling cod with spot prawn sauce stole the show. And let’s not forget the Chef Bourdain inspired Beef Bourguignon with a Japanese touch. I think what makes Sushi Mahana 2.0 special, is Chef Yuki herself. Her passion, knowledge, and integrity shine through all her creations and percolate through her staff and the every inch of the establishment. We can’t wait to go back.

We came to Sushi Mahana to celebrate a graduation and birthdays within the family, and it could not have been more perfect. The omakase dinner was an incredible experience—every dish was beautifully prepared, full of flavor, and thoughtfully presented. The chef surprised us with delicately made cakes at the end, which made the evening even more special and unforgettable. The entire meal was a celebration in itself, and the warm hospitality made us feel truly cared for. A memorable night we will always treasure—highly recommend for any special occasion!

Re-writing review after a recent visit. This place used to be on top of my recommendation list whenever the conversation about sushi omakase comes up, but sadly a recent visit in July confirmed that it was just not the same as before. I've been curious about their new model and re-opening scheduled for June 2025 since learning about it online after a visit in the end of April. However since their re-opening, I've been getting a sense that this once a hidden gem sushi restaurant turned mediocore after the departure of their previous sushi chef, Chef Hiroshi, based on the menu and dishes from their Instagram page. Nevertheless, I knew that I had to go again to experience their new model even if it was just for closure purposes, and sadly I suspicions were proven correct. Overall the dishes served simply lacked depth. The sushi rice was nearly unseasoned, and the tamagoyaki at the end wasn't the fluffy sushi type, but the rolled breakfast type and it kinda tasted store bought... Chutoro tasted kinda tough, perhaps it could've been cut better. Roast salmon skin on top of the salmon sashimi was very tough to chew and stuck to my teeth. Wagyu shabu-shabu (meat from Miyazaki) was topped with a very strong ponzu and served with ground radish to "balance". Personally my preference is that a nice wagyu shabu-shabu shouldn't need anything other than some nicely flavoured dashi which on its own, should be a wonderful topping served on top of the beef, no need for the extra overkill stuff. Now I understand that ponzu is more or less a staple condiment in the Kansai region and they are now going after a Kyoto obanzai style course, but perhaps given the strength of their ponzu it could be better served on the side? The best dishes were probably the roast black cod and miso soup to end the meal, but honestly how can you mess up black cod... I try to appreciate the fact that they are now serving Kyoto style obanzai which should be locally sourced ingredients, in season, and prepared in a simple fashion but there is a certain noticeable gap between them and obanzai dishes I've had in Kyoto. Perhaps local Vancouver ingredients are just not as good and don't pair that well with sushi omakase and fish shipped from Japan? Wishing them all the best under their new model, but I personally won't be returning anytime soon... While they have cut the cost down to $130/pp from the previous $250/pp, given the quality change though the previous one was way better bang for your buck.

Exceptional service and omakase culinary journey every time at Sushi Mahana. Thank you for thoughtful attention to detail in every well-curated bite.

Sushi MAHANA used to be one of my go-to omakase spots, and I was excited to check it out again after the recent chef change. While I truly appreciate the effort and love seeing more women stepping into roles in this traditionally male-dominated space (so inspiring!), I have to admit the experience didn’t quite hit the mark for me this time. That said, I wish them all the best and hope the new direction continues to grow and evolve. I’m just super picky when it comes to omakase 🤣💛 My honest opinion: there's no depth, the lingcod was over cooked and tough to eat, the beef was mediocre at best and I like more traditional style omakase. The sushi rice was mushy. When they torched the sushi it wasn't hot enough it just made the sushi warm which isn't pleasant there's no smokiness to the fish when torched. Everything was just okay. Nothing outstanding for us at all. The miso soup was prob the best thing I had at dinner. But like I said, the service atmosphere and pricing cannot be beaten. $130 for dinner omakase menu is still a steal.

Omakase in north Van. A gem to try Using local products as much as possible Atmosphere is unique and very japanese Plates nicely presented and freshness of the sushi was amazing Warm welcoming A must try

Interesting place hidden away in an industrial area. It's on the second floor of the building and it seemed like stairs are the only way to get up, although there are picnic tables outside (these are not considered dine-in, so if you want to eat outside you have to get takeout). The specialty here is onigiri and they have about 12 varieties available by the piece or in various set meals. The staff were polite but the person who took my order was confounded by my request to order the onigiri takeout combo (onigiri, omelet, pickles, and chicken karaage) without the chicken, and it took some back and forth to convince them to let me order it. I wanted that specific combination of items, just no chicken, and saw no other way to order it on the menu, and was offering to pay the regular price. In the end I was able to get my combo sans chicken. The food was very good and was worth the slight haggle. I got the natto onigiri which was pretty substantial with lots of natto. I also really liked their miso soup. I'm not a fan of plain bland miso soup but I liked theirs because it included lots of onion and greens and actually tasted very rich. The iced hojicha latte was also pretty good. I would be interested in coming back and dining in, but I would make a reservation since all the tables were full when I arrived. They do take walk-ins and will let you wait for a table, but a reservation seems safer.

We had a wonderful experience at this cozy Japanese restaurant that specializes in onigiri (rice balls). The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a clean, minimal aesthetic that reflects the simplicity and care of Japanese design. Though the space isn’t large, the tables are comfortably sized and thoughtfully decorated, making it a pleasant and relaxed setting for a meal. I ordered the special breakfast set, which included a perfectly poached egg, soy sauce-braised cod, thinly sliced beef, and a serving of Japanese rice. Each component was simple yet beautifully executed—the cod was tender and flavorful with a delicate savory-sweet glaze, the beef was juicy and well-marinated, and the poached egg added a creamy richness when mixed into the warm rice. Every bite tasted genuinely authentic, like something you might enjoy at a local eatery in Japan. We also ordered two kids' meals, which came with crispy chicken karaage, two onigiri (salmon and tuna), a kid-sized drink, and a small chocolate treat. The karaage was golden and crisp on the outside, juicy and well-seasoned on the inside—an instant favorite with the kids. The onigiri were freshly made, warm, and comforting, with generous fillings and perfectly seasoned rice. One of the highlights of the meal was the all-you-can-drink miso soup that comes with every order. The soup was light yet flavorful, filled with tender seaweed and slices of radish, making it a perfect complement to the rest of the meal. From start to finish, everything we tried felt thoughtfully prepared and true to traditional Japanese flavors. The quality, presentation, and attention to detail really stood out. Whether you’re a fan of onigiri or just looking for a comforting and authentic Japanese meal, this place is a hidden gem. We’ll definitely be returning—and next time, we might just try every onigiri on the menu!

Came this March but forgot to post it review this place! I ordered the uni set for lunch, very yummy and full of flavour~I would say the portion was a little bit small but it’s worth to check it out if you are wondering breakfast/lunch in Japan! 🇯🇵 I enjoyed the food there! :) Will still want to go try out other food on the menu!

The food was delicious! It gets very busy during the weekend around lunch hours, so we had to wait 30 minutes all good though, and the food does take a bit to arrive, but so worth it, and their prices are rather low for such amazing meal, my father had a large chicken curry, and the kids combo is really filling, definitely enough for teenagers too pushing adults. The service was amazing, since my sister is a bit of a hassle but they handled it really well and they're very nice about it. The atmosphere was loud and upbeat, you'll hear country music playing on the background so it's very alive. Overall my experience was amazing!!!

Over hyped unfortunately the onigiri wasn't that good. the Onigiri had lots of rice and barely any filling. We had ent for lunch, ordered one onigiri, Karaage and lunch special set. It’s definitely overpriced. We wanted to order sashimi for Today’s dishes but it was already sold out so we had curry. Curry and small dishes were good! Staff was not friendly…

This place is overhyped. We ordered the special limited menu and the food was just ok and everything taste a bit too much on salty side. Chicken Karaage was not fresh, not even hot, on our plates. What is worse than the food is that we were struggling to be seated here. The first time we came in last month, half of the tables were empty with Reserved signs and we waited 30 minutes to see none walk-in people got seated. The staff seems not to even try to find table for you. Today, we gave them another chance and got the same experiences, there was a table without Reserved sign, but the staff only tell us to wait. We had to ask and the staff said the table would only be empty for only 1 hour as they have a reservation in the next hour. Which we feel like he could at least offer and tried. While talking to him, another table became empty as the customers left. The staff saw and didn't say anything. Again, I had to ask if we can be seated at that table, where he responded 'We will clean it for you'. Then walked away without saying anything or walking us to the table. After we ordered the food, and walked back to our table, another staff was going to seat other guess at our table. She saw us and asked if we order our food yet and have we been assigned to that table. Clearly the first staff wasn't coordinating with the team for our table at all. The whole experience feel like I am begging to get a chance to eat here. If it wasn't for my wife who want to try this place, I would just walk out of the place, no doubt. And after we finished the food, it was clear for us that this place is a 🙂‍↔️ 🙂‍↔️.

We have been to Takenaka a few times and the food is always amazing. They are known for their onigiris and uni dishes. Everything always tastes fresh. This time, we got the Japan Uni Wagyu Nigiri, Chicken Karaage, Ikura Onigiri, Spicy Tuna Mayo Onigiri, Uni Ramen, and the Yuzu Clam Ramen. The Wagyu Nigiri, which had wasabi and uni on top of the wagyu, was fantastic. The Chicken Karaage were juicy and crispy. The uni, ikura, tuna, and clams all tasted fresh. The Yuzu Clam Ramen broth was very light as well. Highly recommend every item. We didn’t get it this time but their Hojicha Latte is also absolutely delicious.

Sashimi and sushi quality is improved dramatically! Top 10% freshness in Downtown Vancouver with a reasonable price. Staff are super friendly , wide selection of food. This is our weekly gather spot.

Kamei Baru is consistently good! It's not exceptional. It's not terrible. The food's good and their bento boxes are the best I've ever had. They don't cheap out on the food items! The staff are nice so that's always a plus! The menu can be a bit overwhelming in the beginning not because of the amount of stuff but the design isn't that consistent.

Cheap n cheerful with fast and friendly service. The Ebisu roll was tasty; unagi and cream cheese blowtorched at the table (2nd pic). And the tempura yam fries were good. Only reason I didn’t rate 5 stars is because I was very thirsty an hour or so later...

Cool and trendy place, but definitely not traditional high standard Japanese. You can get all the fancy rolls. The food is definitely good, but this more a 20's, 30's crowd for overly fancy rolls. I have had better but it is a good spot.

I had such a great experience here during their happy hour. The oysters and service were both sublime. At $.99 for Royal Miyagis (up to 10 per person), I can't think of a better bargain in Vancouver - a city with many excellent food bargains.

I never knew this place was authentic Japanese! Apparently Kamei has different restaurants with different styles. There is a Kamei Royale nearby. The lunch specials were spectacular as well as affordable. You'll have a hard time finding such affordable sushi in downtown Vancouver. The presentation was also very aesthetic. The waitresses were very nice. They were also quite patient. Too bad that they're only in Vancouver. Otherwise I'd come here often!

We sometimes squeeze in two quick happy hours in the same excursion, and this was one of those evenings, so our experience at Kamei Baru was a bit limited. We loved it, though! The staff were super-friendly and the environment was comfortable. The location is great, because other options, such as Earl's Kitchen + Bar & Boston Pizza, are nearby in case Option #1 is too busy. I always, like to have a contingency plan, especially for late-nights, when some restaurants close earlier than expected. Kamei Baru is also right by Paramount Place. We had the steamed mussels in white wine sauce. No complaints!