Category Archives: Food

Information about the best cafes, pizzas, and unique eats in Vancouver. We cover Chinese cuisine, Italian, and everything else pretty much. Ask and Answer with VancityAsks community! Foodies, please contribute your pictures and suggestions in the contact us form at http://www.vancityasks.com/contact-us/

Food

Best Donuts in Vancouver

March 19, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

Sometimes your sweet tooth wants some carbs and that’s when donuts are your perfect pick. Yet, if you’re going to cheat on your diet and pluck up those calories, you may as well do it for something worth it. As Dr. Leslie Tay of the ieatishootipost blog in Singapore likes to say, “don’t waste your calories on yucky food”.

Here are five places you can indulge yourself with the best donuts in Vancouver:

1) Cartems Donuterie: Cartems is without a doubt, hands down, the best donut Vancouver has to offer. It’s a cool donut shop in Gastown at 534 West Pender. The small nook is nestled between some shops.

The Donuterie is known for their unique flavors like the infamous Canadian Whiskey bacon or the one I’ll be trying next time, “triple chocolate threat”.

The ingredients at Cartems are source as locally as possible among other things. Beyond their upbeat logo is also a friendly person happy to strike up a conversation and make you feel welcome as you enjoy your cup of coffee and savor the $3 donut in their small but brightly colored shop.

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/cartems-donuterie-downtown-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/cartems-donuterie-vancouver-4

The infamous Cartems’ Canadian Whiskey Bacon. I think this is what I got the last time I went. Picture from Cartems Donuterie

A view inside Cartems Donuterie. This shop is typically busy with events.

Taking a look outside Cartems Donuterie. It’s a small and unassuming shop with good donuts. Photo from Google Maps

Address: 534 W Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1V3

2) Lee’s Donuts: It seems like a really unassuming store by an exit at Granville Island market but don’t be mistaken, these donuts are easily the best in Vancouver.

You have your typical honey dip, chocolate, and maple glaze – the staples. Although there are also more flavors like honey dew, Bavarian cream, or dutch chocolate. Fancy! I think once I even tried their maple, bacon doughnut about two or three years back? Anyways, the point is that Lee’s Donuts have been esteemed as a fine donuts establishment for a long time, well before Cartems and Lucky’s came about (as great as they are).

There may be the occasional times you end up get a room-temp donut though if you come in the peak periods, the donuts are typically freshly fried and incredibly delicious. Service is typically good.

Lee's Donuts at Granville Island is Vancouver's number 2 best donuts.

Lee’s Donuts as displayed at Granville Island. Picture from Lee’s Donuts.

Lee's Donut in Granville Island Market sign

Lee’s Donuts is located in Granville Island right by the second entrance to the Granville Island Market. Picture from Lee’s Donuts

Delicious Vancouver donuts, the best in Vancouver

Enter here for delicious donuts!

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/lees-donuts-granville-island-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/lees-donuts-of-granville-island-vancouver

Address: 1689 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9

3) Lucky’s Donuts: Lucky’s Donut is a product of 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters which is also on our list for the best cafe in Vancouver. The donuts ring in at about $3.50, much like Cartems. They have a coffee and donut combo running at $5 for 12 oz of freshly brewed caffeine with any doughnut of your choice.

Once again liken to Cartems Donuterie, Lucky’s Donuts are infamous for their unique and extravagant flavors such as Creme Brûlée, salted caramel, PB&J, or how about apple bacon fitter?

Lucky Donuts once again emphasizes on natural ingredients for donuts that are freshly made throughout the day. Who could complain with that? They found their start on twitter in June 2012 after years of intent and months of construction as noted on their website to build out the artistic location where Lucky’s Donuts is right now on Main St.

Their coffee aren’t that bad either, so we hear 😉

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/forty-ninth-parallel-cafe-luckys-doughnuts-mount-pleasant-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/luckys-doughnuts-vancouver-2

Lucky Donuts at Vancouver BC specialty donuts

How’s this for themed donuts? Delicious Sakura donuts only at Lucky’s Donuts in Vancouver, BC.

Glorious donuts at Lucky’s Donuts. How about starting your day with one and a freshly brewed cup of 49th parallel coffee only $5.

Outside Lucky’s Donuts store in Vancouver, BC. Can you believe this use to be a laundromat? Courtesy of Google Earth.

Address: 2902 Main Street Vancouver, BC V5T 0C1

4) Duffin’s Donut: In Vancouver, there aren’t many places you go for a late night supper. That is unless it’s Duffin Donuts.

Duffin’s Donuts is a unique establishment in Vancouver that serves donuts along with Chinese food, Mexican food, and a host of other cuisines on their diverse menu…24 hours! Their menu may even be as international as Vancouver. To imagine they offer this 24 hours, round the clock is quite an achievement, well deserving of our top 5 list for the best donuts in Vancouver.

While the donuts are good, they aren’t the fancy types like Cartems or Lucky’s. You may as well grab your bubble tea and Chinese take out while you venture to this shop at the cross roads of Knight and 41st Street. The exterior and shop itself may have seen better days, but the heart and soul (the food) is still on par.

If you can’t decide between Chinese food or donuts, then your pick is Duffin’s Donuts because you never know when you might want fried chicken, donuts, hot tortas, and bubble tea in one go!

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/duffins-donuts-kensington-vancouver

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/duffins-donuts-vancouver

Duffin's Donuts Sprinkled Vancouver Donuts

Ohhh Sprinkles! Delicious Vancouver donuts at Duffin’s Donuts by 41st and Knight street

Fried Chicken at Duffin's Donuts in Vancouver

If you’re going to grab some donuts, you may as well do it right with some fried chicken?

Duffin’s Donuts – A Vancouver establishment inclusive of the rain clouds. Truly Vancouver.

Address: 1391 E 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5W 3R9

5) Outpost’s Mini Donuts: Outpost’s Mini donuts is out of the way at Stevenson but while you’re there, grab some fish n chips from Pajo’s or pizza from Steveston Pizza Co.

Outpost’s Mini Donuts will allow you to reminiscence the hot summer nights at the PNE when Vancouver’s weather wasn’t so depressing. It’s the bite you go for when you want to remember what Vancouver can be like. No, in reality, we listed Outpost’s Mini Donuts because they had bacon in their mini donuts! That’s a plus by any standards (though it isn’t kosher)

Outpost’s donuts puts a unique twist to the traditional mini donuts you see at carnivals and events. The cake donuts come in seasonal flavors (which at the moment includes Lemon, Bluberry, Boston Cream, Raspberry Chocolate, and Coconut). The prices here are much easier to digest; it’s only $7.50 for a baker’s dozen (13) and $4.75 for half a dozen.

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/outpost-mini-donut-co-steveston-richmond

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/outpost-mini-donut-company-richmond

Outpost Mini Donuts are known for their unique flavors to the traditional cake-based mini donuts. Photo from Outpost Mini Donuts

Outpost Mini Donuts cinnamon donuts are the 5th best donuts in Vancouver

Outpost Mini Donuts Traditional cinnamon sugar mini donuts in Vancouver

Exterior of Outpost Mini Donuts as Vancouver best donuts

Outpost Mini Donuts are located in Stevenson, right by the Fisherman’s Wharf. See the mini donuts here.

Address: 12240 Second Ave #110, Richmond, BC V7E 3L8

There you have it, the best donuts in Vancouver as rated on VancityAsks.com. It’s pretty much a consensus that these are the best donuts in Vancouver (#1-4 namely).

As far as fancy donuts goes you don’t have many choices in Vancouver. Thankfully there’s Tim’s and you know we like giving away Tim Hortons gift cards on this website because we enjoy Tim Horton’s so much (how can you not? It’s like a Canadian staple especially if you grew up in the East). Their donuts are not half that bad also.

Share your feedback or suggestions in the comments bellow!

Random Fact – Ever wondered why Baker’s Dozen was 13? Where did it come from?

Here’s your answer: “King Henry III was so irked by the problem that he implemented a new law to standardize the weight of a loaf—selling puny loaves could result in beatings or jail time. Since bakers wanted to stay on the right side of the law, one common trick was to give 13 loaves to any customer buying a dozen”

http://mentalfloss.com/article/32259/why-bakers-dozen-13

Looks like Subways could learn a thing or two. Never really liked Subways myself anyways.

It’s a donut, but it’s not:

Here are two stores that you may be interested in trying out if you’re looking for Vancouver’s best donuts. They aren’t really donuts so we couldn’t put them on the list but they fit the bill:

Swiss Bakery – Hands down the best cronut in Vancouver. It was initially the brainchild of a New York baker, Dominique Ansel back in 2013. It’s what happens if a donut and a constant had a child; you got the best of the fluffy, buttery texture of a croissant with the sweet-tooth toppings of a doughnut. The name cronut is actually even trademarked by dominique so Swiss Bakery calls theirs a frissant. I care not the name so long as it’s good.

Swiss Bakery Frissiant as Vancouver best donuts.

Chocolate heart shape frissant which is basically Vancouver’s version of a donut+crossiant breeding.

Address – 143 E 3rd Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 1C7

Chewy Junior – Ah Chewy Junior. You see this store all over Singapore at City Hall Raffles shopping center and most other major shopping centers. It’s pretty much like a chewy donut but better. You have the crisp crunch on the outside with a chewy center (not like under cook dough but uniquely satisfying) typically with a creamed filling. It’s great if you’re looking for a doughnut with a little more bite. Not really a donut but still deliciously hits the spot. Thankfully it has made it’s way around to Vancouver at 508 West Cordova Street right outside Waterfront station to your left.

It looks way better in person BTW. Give Chewy Junior a visit at 508 W Cordova.

Address – 508 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6B

Food

Best Singapore food in Vancouver

March 16, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

Singaporeans in Vancouver, you can rejoice. I think we’ve categorized all the Singaporean/Malaysian Restaurants in this post and ranked the top 5. List will continue to be updated.

Being originally from Singapore, I know Singaporeans have two national hobbies (1) eating (2) shopping. (and this is not an exaggeration. Take this from NUS website, “Shopping, watching movies and dining are said to be Singapore’s national pastimes.”)

Here’s your ultimate list of Singaporean food in Vancouver – wasn’t hard writing at all.

First off, if you’re looking for good Singaporean food in Vancouver, I suggest you skip Banana Leaf. You’re over paying for food that isn’t representative of Singaporean or Malaysian cuisine. This is the list of REAL Singaporean food in Vancouver.

If you’re Singaporean or if you’re interested in Singaporean cuisine in Vancouver, read on, because you will not be disappointed!

Being a foodie was in part how VancityAsks.com was started. I like food so much, we wanted to share the BEST food Vancouver has to offer for whatever cuisine or tastes. (since Vancouver is such a multi-cultural city with so many delicious experiences).

So without further ado, let’s get to finding the best Singaporean food in Vancouver.

Some things you have to try with Singaporean food in Vancouver is (1) Chicken rice (2) Laska (3) Prata – this is actually Malaysian food.

1) Mamalee Malaysian Delight:

Formally known as Cafe D’lite and now rebranded as Mamalee Malaysian Delight. It’s located in Kitsalino and serves up some delicious authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice! (Dare I say, better than many chicken rice I’ve tasted in Singapore.)

We’ve ranked it at #1 as the best Singaporean food in Vancouver because they do so well at their specialty – Hainanese chicken rice. It’s like a hawker concept where one hawker store will do really well in a certain dish and only serve that dish. It’s certainly worth a visit though I’ve yet to try their curry or deserts.

What’s good: Chicken rice, Laska

What’s bad: Nothing that I’ve tried so far.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/mamalee-malaysian-delight-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/mamalee-malaysian-delight-kitsilano-vancouver

Vancouver Hainanese Chicken Rice at Mamalee Malaysian Delight

Hainanese Chicken Rice at Mamalee Malaysian Delight – VancityAsks.com’s pick for the #1 Best Singaporean food in Vancouver

Pan Mee at Mamalee Malaysian Delight in Vancouver

Malay Spicy Pan Mee at Mamalee Malaysian Delight in Kitsilano

Vancouver Singaporean Laska Food at Mamalee Malaysian Delight

Singaporean/Malaysian Laska at Mamalee Malaysian Delight. Look at the nostalgic marbles! (remember those marble games?)

Address: 3144 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2H3

2) Hawker Delight: Hawker Delight is quite the delight. It’s right on Main street and has been one of the long standing Malaysian/Singaporean restaurant/take-out in Vancouver. Very friendly people and fast service. The restaurant is typically pack during lunch and dinner.

The prices are incredible as well for Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver. Go give this fine establishment of Singaporean food in Vancouver a visit if you would like to try good char kway teow.

What’s good: Char Kway Teow

What’s bad: Not really bad but laska was average. Their tofu skins can be skipped too.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/hawkers-delight-deli-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/hawkers-delight-riley-park-little-mountain-vancouver

Address: 4127 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P6

3) Penang Delight:

Penang Delight is an excellent Malaysian restaurant in Vancouver that’s definitely worth a visit. They have several branches across Vancouver for good reason.

The food comes out fast, hot and delicious. It’s not really specifically Singaporean food in Vancouver. (in contrast, even though Bean Sprout chicken is technically Malaysian food in Vancouver, it still has a lot of familiar Singaporean dishes. In reality as mentioned, both cuisines are very similar. Most restaurants advertise or serve a fusion of Malaysian and Singaporean or even Thai.)

The prices are slightly higher relative to Hawker Delight, and they added sugar to their Penang prawn noodle soup. Other than that, it’s good Penang food.

What’s Good: The prawn noodle soup is so good.

What’s Bad: None so far.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/penang-delight-cafe-vancouver-2

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/penang-delight-cafe-marpole

Address: 1316 West 73rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC V6P 3E7 (other location at 3885 Rupert St,)

4) Kaya Malay Bistro: Kaya Malay Bistro is a nice, small restaurant near west Broadway. It’s rather modern with a drink menu along with their food. Food is rather authentic Malaysian/Singaporean food in Vancouver. It’s certainly worth visiting.

Their condiments for the hainanese chicken rice is quite on point. As you will hear from Anthony Bourdain (who infamously endorsed Tain Tain Chicken rice in Singapore – and ever since the line up has been incredible), the condiments with Hainanese chicken rice is very important.

The prices are very reasonable for an eat-in restaurant and certainly lower than Banana Leaf Vancouver. They have also participated in Dine-Out Vancouver.

Yes it seems most Singaporean food in Vancouver are actually Malaysian restaurants if you’ve noted that observation by now. There’s always this debate between Malaysian and Singaporean food; we prefer to enjoy the food.

What’s Good: chicken rice, roti canai

What’s Bad: rendang beef, mango

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/kaya-malay-bistro-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/kaya-malay-bistro-fairview

Address: 1063 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6H 1E2

5) TBD
We’re still looking for the Best Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver. I’m sure it’s coming 🙂

Other mentions: Singaporean food is so hard to find. Here are some other Singaporean/Malaysian restaurants and eateries you can try out in Vancouver. Let us know your thoughts and opinions.

John 3:16 Malaysian Food: It’s good Singaporean and Malaysain food in Vancouver but they are currently closed. Food is authentic and family style but smaller portions.

Address: 8151 Anderson Rd #170, Richmond, BC V6Y 2V9

Prata Man: When I arrived in Vancouver, I remember Prata Man distinctly being a great establishment of Singaporean food. The Hokkien mee was their specialty despite the name, Prata man. Now however, this eatery has really declined in quality and in food safety. It’s still worth a visit to try their Hokkien mee but do note the store is not very clean. Go for their prata or chicken rice while you’re there as well. It’s right in Richmond near Bridgeport station.

Address: 9060 Capstan Way, Richmond, BC V6X 1R4

Laska King: Laska King is located in East Hastings, not the prettiest neighborhood in Vancouver. They have good laska however and been around for quite some time. It’s a Burmese and South East Asian eatery serving up laska and other dishes like roti canai (prata – different ways of calling the same food).

Address: 2546 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V5K

Tropika: Tropika is actually quite good south east Asian food in Vancouver. It’s worth visiting for a dining experience; these are restaurants much like Banana leaf rather than the typical take out, small eateries or cafes for other Singaporean food in Vancouver.

Address:

(1) 2975 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2V7

(2) 5300 No 3 Rd #322, Richmond, BC V6X 2C7

Coco hut: Coco Hut is another Singaporean food store in Richmond. Their chicken rice is lacking flavor but their menu prices seem well. I can’t comment about their other food but reviews appears to be worth visiting.

Address: 8388 Capstan Way #1118, Richmond, BC V6X

Spoon Kitchen: Spoon Kitchen we have seen several times on Groupon. It’s not authentic Malaysian/Singaporean food in Vancouver but it does give a fairly good taste of Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai food. I hear portions are small relative to the prices. It’s rather near downtown and worth checking out if you got a Groupon.

Address: 1909 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M7

Mui Garden: Mui Garden is a Hong Kong style cafe (as we mentioned earlier that a lot of these HK cafe seem to serve certain Singaporean/Malaysian dishes) which actually serves up fairly decent Hainan Chicken Rice and curry. It’s worth checking out but not specifically a Singaporean restaurant in Vancouver.

Address:

(1) 4265 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P8

(2) 5797 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5P 3W5

(3) 5960 Minoru Blvd, Richmond, BC V6X 4J4

City 1 Cafe: City 1 Cafe is another Singaporean food restaurant in Vancouver. It’s located on the 25 bus route near Cambie in a strip mall besides Safeway and TD bank. It’s Ok food. It’s not actually ran by Singaporeans or Malaysian (it was bought over apparently) but Cantonese. Food understandably is not as authentic and sub par.

Address: 954 W King Edward Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2E2

Ipoh Bean Sprout Chicken:

It’s quite an undiscovered Singaporean/Malaysian food eatery. If you’re looking for cheap and good Singaporean food in Vancouver, then Bean Sprout Chicken is your bid.

Go to the food court in Crystal Mall (quite like a hawker center) and checkout their menu as you savor delicious Malaysian and Singaporean food in Singapore.

Lemak (malay word for fatty but actually implied as rich in flavor) laska is around $7-$8 (rather than paying $15 at Banana Leaf ). Most of the food is rather authentic. They don’t make their own prata however so give that a skip.

Prices are reasonable and food is good. Do not go here for a date or for service. Most the times I’ve been greeted very grudgingly even with a courteous smile myself. (and I can confirm it wasn’t the rainy weather affecting their moods). Still, I can put up with some bad service for good food 🙂

What’s good: Char Kway Teow, Hor Fun, Penang Prawn Mee, Curry puff,

What’s bad: Prata (avoid)

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/ipoh-bean-sprout-chicken-burnaby

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/ipoh-bean-sprout-chicken-central-burnaby

Address: 4500 Kingsway #2127, Burnaby, BC V5H 2B1

Conclusion:

There typically isn’t a conclusion paragraph with VancityAsks.com articles but I didn’t want to make you read so much before getting to the list of best Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver (since I suspect you were already drooling at the thought of the flavor pack explosions in your mouth.)

So I copied some paragraphs at the start, and pasted it here as the conclusion 🙂 Remember, re-use, recycle, and reduce! We are a green city after all.

I have tried most Singaporean food in Vancouver (one thing you can ask any Singapore expat that they miss about Singapore is FOOD. They have daily debates about the best food at “hawker centers”…if you want to strike up a conversion with Singaporeans, truly just talk about food. You’ll be surprise how passionate some Singaporeans can be about their food….and their neighbors, to be politically correct.)

For years, I’ve been dishing out my recommendations for the best Singaporean/Malaysian food in Vancouver to every Singaporean I met whether they wanted it or not. Now, it’s your turn. Thankfully since you’ve volunteer read this article, I’d suppose you want to. Singaporean cuisine is truly an experience not to be missed; if you cannot make it to Singapore (uniquely Singapore), these are possibly your next best option to tasting Singaporean food.

Singaporean food incorporates many cultures and cuisines as Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and races much like Vancouver. It’s also good to note that many foods you find in Singapore can also be found in Malaysia and Indonesia or Thailand. Hence it’s not exclusively Singaporean food in Vancouver but Malaysian & Singaporean food in Vancouver. There honestly isn’t too much difference between the dishes in these two countries with some modifications and taste on certain recipes – for example the laska in Singapore is more creamy, coconut taste like a thai curry whereas Malaysia’s Penang laska is the sour and salty version.

Singapore has also strict regulations for their food (even hawker food) so it’s prepared more health/safety regulated meaning it leaves out some traditional additives that may previously be used. Dr. Leslie Tay would be able to tell you more about how the “hor fun” in Singapore compares to Malaysia. Hor Fun is basically fried rice noodles in delicious stock.

There are also many restaurants that serve a few Singaporean/Malaysian dishes but we’ve focused on those that are specifically intended for food in this geographic region. You’ll find that many HK cafes serve Laska with steamed chicken (and they do taste good)

If you’re Singaporean in Vancouver reading this article, I hope we’ve helped you edge off your cravings.

Bonus:

BKK Jerky – this is Singaporean style Jerky in Vancouver. Freshly made with full beef/pork slices. Tastes pretty good actually.

Prima Foods – For those of you who want to savor Singaporean dishes in your own home, TnT and many asian grocery stores are beginning to carry packaged Singaporean food in Vancouver.

For example, Prima Laska Instant noodles, Chicken rice seasoning packets, even Bak Kuh Teh soup packets!

There’s plenty of variety here nowadays. You can even get your Malaysian white coffee or 3 in 1 coffee at TnT these days. There’s also a very close variety of Singaporean pineapple tarts in TnT Vancouver if you fancy some pineapple tarts – nothing quite as good as those glory pineapple tarts in Singapore however.

Alongside, TnT has been carrying frozen prata for some time. You need to be able to cook it on a hot pan and fluff it up before serving though.

We’ve also address prices more in this blog post than any other previous best-of Vancouver articles because Singaporeans love a good deal 🙂 Now this is hear-say. (no reference for this comment but personal experience haha)

Food

Best Cheap Sushi in Vancouver

February 13, 2016 Published by: VancityAsks

It’s been three months past the new year and you realize, you’re a little behind your new year’s resolution to eat healthier and maybe shed a few pounds.

Sushi is both healthy and delicious. Protein, omega-3 and carbs perfectly combined together to a light and nutritious meal. Buzz words in health.

So let’s catch you up with your new years solution. Here are five sushi restaurants or take-outs in Vancouver that’s affordable and yummy.

There are hundreds of sushi places in Vancouver so choosing which one can be difficult; especially when the collteral of bad sushi is an upset stomach, you don’t want to risk your chances. Here are some of the best cheap sushi in Vancouver so you can enjoy good sushi on a friendly budget. Be surprise at the deals you find in Vancouver for sushi. Your wallet and stomach will be happy you found this on VancityAsks.com

1. Yamato Sushi:

I walk by this the other day and it looks very unassuming store nestled between a Chinese restaurant and another sushi store (Jako Sushi). There was a prominent flyer outside promoting 24 pieces at $5.95. Normally that would scare you but if it’s Yamato Sushi, you give it a try.

You won’t be disappointed with the pricing and the sushi is moderately acceptable. If you’re looking for cheap sushi in Vancouver then don’t miss out on Yamato Sushi when you’re in Vancouver.

I suggest you go for take out as there’s nothing fantastic about the dining experience at Yamato. The thing about cheap sushi is the affordability and quality of the food rather than the dining experience. Many of these are take out places or small dining areas to keep the cost lower.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/yamato-sushi-restaurant-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/yamato-sushi-downtown-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d2229488-Reviews-Yamato_Sushi-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address:

2. Broadway Sushi:

Broadway Station Sushi in Vancouver doesn’t win an award for the freshest sushi in Vancouver but it certainly is competitive for the location, convenience, and costs.

You can get a combo for just over $8 which includes miso and two rolls. It’s good for a quick bite on the go with your commute, maybe before catching the crowded 99 to UBC.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/broadway-station-sushi-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/broadway-station-sushi-kensington

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d4851863-Reviews-Broadway_Sushi_Station-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 1638 Broadway E Suite 101 Vancouver, BC V5N 1W1

3. Hoshi Sushi:

Hoshi Sushi is not fine dining. It’s a small restaurant in Vancouver (Kitsalino area) that’s consistently packed especially during peak periods. They serve up delicious Vancouver sushi and sashimi but also dish up a variety of excellent cooked food options.

It’s not precisely the place you’d go for the best sushi in Vancouver. Why is it listed #3 for our list of best sushi in Vancouver? At VancityAsks.com we try to feature the BEST of Vancouver although we appreciate there can be various ways to define best. Hoshi Sushi has garnered a reputation for good sushi and good prices.

Hop on over to savor fresh sushi for during your lunch break. Hoshi Sushi Vancouver is listed #3 on our list for the quality product and good prices.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/hoshi-sushi-japanese-restaurant-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/hoshi-sushi-kitsilano

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d5086979-Reviews-Hoshi_Sushi_Japanese_Restaurant-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Beautifully arranged sushi from Hoshi Sushi in Vancouver. Our #3 pick for the Best Sushi in Vancouver Hoshi Sushi in Vancouver has excellent rolls. Delicious salmon roll from Hoshi Sushi in Vancouver. #3 Best sushi in Vancouver for it’s quality and value.

Address: Go for some tasty sushi at 2825 Broadway W Vancouver, BC V6K 2G6

4. Shabusen Yakiniku house:

Shabusen Yakiniku House is located on the second floor of 755 Burrard Street right in the middle of downtown. This is likely the best sushi/BBQ buffet in Vancouver as well.

For just under $15 at lunch, you can enjoy a variety of Sashimi, Nigiri Sushi, and sushi rolls. There’s also an add on for all you can eat Korean BBQ (about $2). Incredible value and the food is actually pretty good as far as buffet goes. You’ll be surprise how fresh their sashimi actually is. (for buffet standards. Nothing compared to Sushi Bar Maumi)

The place is typically packed so be sure to make a reservation if you can. Shabusen is definitely deserving of the #4 spot for the best cheap sushi in Vancouver. It’s so good, it’s made it’s way by word of mouth all the way to Port Coquitlam.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/shabusen-yakiniku-house-vancouver-3

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/shabusen-yakiniku-house-west-end-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d708889-Reviews-Shabusen_Yakiniku_House-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: 755 Burrard Street Suite 202 Vancouver, BC V6Z 1X6

5. Matsuyama Sushi Richmond:

Matsuyama Sushi Richmond is one of Richmond’s secret spot for good and cheap sushi. It’s a little out of the way from Vancouver but their supper menu provides good food at a good price.

Matsuyama also has a nice dining area beyond it’s good food.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/matsuyama-japanese-restaurant-richmond

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/matsuyama-japanese-restaurant-central-richmond

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g181716-d1220597-Reviews-Matsuyama_Japanese_Restaurant-Richmond_British_Columbia.html

Address: 8500 Alexandra Road Suite 110 Richmond, BC V6X 3L4

Other Mentions:
– Jako Sushi:
– BC Sushi:
– Shiro

Food

Best Sushi in Vancouver

September 25, 2015 Published by: VancityAsks

Updated: July 14, 2021:

Replace Miku Restaurant back to #3, Sushi Bar Maumi to #1 (authentic Japanese sushi in Vancouver).

Updated: March 7, 2019

Updated: January 31, 2019

Moving Miku Restaurant from #3 to #1 (Significant improvements and continual innovation + growth on excellence)

Updated: March 5, 2018

Update sushi restaurant description. Add introduction & conclusion + good sushi restaurants in Vancouver.

Updated: March 31, 2017

Removal of Hoshi Sushi at Sandbar: Hoshi Sushi was a sushi bar at Sandbar (operated by Sequoia Company of Restaurants) part of a Pacific-Northwest themed seafood restaurant… the sushi bar was ran by a Japanese sushi chef. It was recommended by other sushi chefs. However, as their specialty and focus isn’t sushi – the experience, quality, and freshness can vary. While the location is great for tourists being located on Granville Island, near the False Creek, the decor and vibrant atmosphere of a Western seafood restaurant certainly doesn’t reminisce much of a Japanese sushi restaurant; it may detract from your experience seeking for an authentic, best sushi restaurant in Vancouver …as it’s more a Pacific-Northwest atmosphere, and can be rather bustling than serene. Namely, the quality and reviews became inconsistent… hence not the ideal go-to recommendation for the best sushi restaurant in Vancouver.
Miku Sushi up from #4 to #3
Added updates about Sushi Bar Maumi and slight commentaries.

In This Best Sushi in Vancouver Article:

In Search for the Best Sushi in Vancouver: Finding the best sushi in Vancouver. Impartial, Non-bias.
Vancouver, The Sushi Capital of North America: What makes Vancouver the sushi capital of North America
What Makes Good Sushi: What we look for when finding the best sushi restaurants in Vancouver.
The 5 Best Sushi in Vancouver:
- #1 Best Sushi in Vancouver: Sushi Bar Maumi (Downtown West End – 1226 Bute Street)
  - As authentic a sushi restaurant in Vancouver, as can be. They specialized in Omakase experiences.
  - Small, very small, restaurant in West End… but the best sushi in Vancouver.
  - Omakase menu depends on what fresh seafood they’ve imported that day from Japan, or local seafood.
- #2 Best Sushi in Vancouver: Ajisai Sushi Bar (Kerrisdale – 2081 W 42nd Avenue)
  - Recommended by the Japanese-ran fish supplier on Granville Island, seafood city. (Eh, they may or may not get their fish from them. LOL.) Authentic Japanese sushi. Fresh fish, good prices.
  - Your standard sushi restaurant interior, but in a very walkable neighbourhood to work off your calories after.
  - Some of the best authentic sushi in Vancouver. (Recommended also by various sushi chefs.)
- #3 Best Sushi in Vancouver: Miku Restaurant (Downtown Waterfront – 200 Granville Street, #70)
  - Pioneers of the aburi sushi style in Vancouver. Not the best sushi in Vancouver for authenticity but the best sushi in Vancouver for a uniquely Vancouver sushi-style.
  - Remarkable dining experience. Beyond sushi, and especially aburi sushi, their fish soup is well commended along with desserts like Miso Caramel Ice Cream or Green Tea Opera Cake.
  - Upscale prices, less value for money but a must-try in Vancouver.
- #4 Best Sushi in Vancouver: Tojo’s (Fairview/West Broadway – 1133 W Broadway)
  - Possibly one of the first famous sushi restaurants in Vancouver, made popular by the likes of Anthony Bourdain.
  - Supposedly invented the “California roll” with crab meat sushi (We have a lot of Dungeness Crab and Red Rock Crab in British Columbia… actually, you can even catch them yourself in Port Moody inlet or at the pier in West Vancouver – if you had a recreational fishing license that is.)
  - Uses real wasabi as all good sushi restaurants in Vancouver. (rather than coloured horse radish that most sushi restaurants actually use)
- #5 Best Sushi in Vancouver: Hiteo Sushi (Kitsilano – 3347 W 4th Avenue)
  - Fresh sushi. Japanese chef. Authentic. Good location.
  - Cozy and cute interior and Japanese decoration in a quaint neighbourhood reasonably near the beach.
  - Quality sushi at good, everyday prices. The best sushi in Vancouver that happens to be friendly on your wallet. This is the only restaurant (well, Ajisai is also reasonably good value) on our best sushi in Vancouver recommendations that is surprisingly cheap. The rest would ring you in at >$100 per couple.
More Good Sushi Restaurants in Vancouver: There are simply too many good sushi restaurants in Vancouver to only mention the top 5 best sushi restaurants in Vancouver. Here is where we have more creative freedom to share other good sushi restaurants that we’ve come across on our search for the best sushi in Vancouver. While these may not compete with the best sushi in Vancouver, they do hold well in their own right; any of these good sushi restaurants in Vancouver are well worth visiting or bringing along a friend/family to show what Vancouver has to offer in terms of sushi.
Sushi Fun Fact: Do you know the origins of “sushi”? Find out bellow if you’re keen to know where the word “sushi” is derived from.

In Search for the Best Sushi in Vancouver

Wondering where the best sushi in Vancouver, BC is? We got you covered! (Speaking of which, bring an umbrella if you’re visiting Vancouver anywhere between October-February… typically, it rains >50% around these five months; the ideal time to visit if you can choose is Spring-Summer which is around May-June where the weather is typically moderate temperatures with minimal rain.) This list on VancityAsks underlines the BEST sushi Vancouver has to offer.

Vancouver, The Sushi Capital of North America:

Vancouverites LOVE sushi. We have over 600 sushi restaurants in Vancouver; many are thriving.

Vancouver is a coastal city with accessibility to fresh seafood.
Vancouver locals love eating sushi because it’s healthy and tasty.
Vancouver is home to many Japanese expats who carry their cuisines from abroad or create inventive fusion of their authentic food for local taste.
Vancouver has more sushi and ramen stores than most cities in North America, not even Los Angeles has more sushi restaurants than Vancouver!
More competition generally means you must be good to survive; (although evidently with a good/significant market for sushi eaters, it makes it easier. Also, a tangent fun fact, as early as 1980s, the concept of eating raw fish like sushi was considered very foreign to Western taste/preference. Even then, because of the significant population of Japanese expats, Vancouver started the sushi craze earlier than most other North American cities.) so all this to say, we have some of the BEST sushi restaurants outside of Japan… because we also have the most sushi restaurants in Canada. Furthermore, you know they are good as they’ve been around for years (the test of time).

If you’re visiting Vancouver or have friends/family coming for a visit, then there is perhaps no better food to indulge than sushi or ramen (well, besides some of the best seafood restaurants in Vancouver… especially the best fish & chips in Vancouver). It may very well be some of the best sushi and ramen you’ve tasted.*1

We’ve endeavored to find and feature the BEST sushi in Vancouver from local reviews (We all know the stories of fake reviews that malicious businesses employ…is that where you really want to eat and trust your food safety if they don’t have the integrity to operate ethically?) and a local perspective. Our recommendations are based on experience, local feedback, and a deep fact-checking process along with taste-test where appropriate. The process takes no less than 10-15 hours so we can truly deliver accurate recommendations for the best sushi in Vancouver. This is not some quickly compiled list of the best sushi in Vancouver from Reddit Board or a copy of Yelp rankings. (as some reviews do.)

*1 [Now with that, an extension from the sushi craze in Vancouver – came the poke bowls, and so Vancouver is proliferated with poke restaurants.

If you’re unfamiliar with what poke bowls are; they aren’t short for pokemon bowls but rather raw fish, usually salmon or tuna, with an assortment of toppings & sauces on sushi rice, sometimes salad… but the commonly available poke bowls in Vancouver are not like the ones in Hawaii – most of these poke restaurants in Vancouver are unseasoned raw fish on top of rice and toppings (think of it like a Japanese-themed Chipotle… I presume many readers will be from America).

It’s a healthy, quick-eat, take-out for locals… but is not as good as in Hawaii, nor comparable to the quality & variety of sushi you can get in Vancouver. These are perhaps less skilled (requirements) or advanced (in quality & competition) as the best sushi in Vancouver (Admittedly, you’ll probably enjoy poke better where it begun, in Hawaii) but nevertheless here are the best poke in Vancouver. (Unlike master sushi chefs with years of experience at their specialized craft of sushi making, most of these poke restaurants are staffed with your average Chipotle or Subways team – because it doesn’t require much training to add toppings and fish on top of rice.)

Also, many poke restaurants (especially those with several branches/franchise) and even sushi restaurants (your mall variety sushi restaurants at least) order their fish from the same few suppliers. Although, there many sushi restaurants who order, and filet their fish directly & fresh or specialized daily-flown suppliers from Japan, besides local seafood… such as Sushi Bar Maumi in Davie Village, and many other of the best sushi restaurants mentioned bellow.]

What Makes Good Sushi?

Before we share with you the best sushi restaurants you can find Vancouver, it helps to share what constitutes as good or the best sushi in Vancouver.

What makes for good sushi in Vancouver?

Freshness: We live in a coastal city with good accessibility to fresh seafood. The freshness of the seafood is not only for the quality and taste of your sushi dining but also for your safety. Raw food can spoil easier without proper handling.
Rice: The rice is actually one of the MOST important characteristic to good sushi. The temperature, texture, and flavor of the rice is what makes a good sushi and a great sushi. The consistency with the sushi rice is a must if a restaurant is considered as the best sushi in Vancouver.
Taste – Authenticity or Creativity: Whether you’re looking for authenticity or creativity are two different approaches. Some say change is inevitable and the best sushi in Vancouver would be a reinvention and fusion. Majority of people would look for authenticity of the purest form to be considered the best sushi in Vancouver.

Beyond consideration of finding the best sushi in Vancouver, food wise, the service, menu, and atmosphere are also important considerations. After all, humans are rarely rational, our enjoyment of any dining experience has largely to do with the presentation, service, and environment that collectively formulate our experience. It’s been known that a significant portion of customer loyalty to local/artisan businesses lies with the customer experience with the local business.

Most of the recommendations are carefully curated to ensure we have truly found the BEST sushi in Vancouver.

Best Sushi, Not Best Cheap Sushi in Vancouver

This is not the best cheap sushi restaurants, we have that too! If you’re looking for the best cheap sushi then check out our Vancouver’s best cheap sushi here. The best cheap sushi recommendations would be for those looking for well price sushi that taste good; good value for the most part. Large portions, reasonable quality, and amazingly shocking prices. Yeap! They exists.

The BEST Sushi Restaurants in Vancouver:

These best sushi in Vancouver recommendations are for you sushi experts looking to savour the best of the best. Whether you’re a visitor who have been told about Vancouver’s awesome sushi scene, or a local sushi fanatic…these are the sushi restaurants in Vancouver, you want to try! These sushi spots are known for the best quality, best flavors, best freshness.

You can rest assure that the five best sushi in Vancouver listed here will satisfy your craving for luxury or uniqueness in quality. Give it a read please (in good Canadian manners… eh).

1. Miku Restaurant

Miku is the epitome of fine Japanese dining, with a modern twist. It’s neatly located right by the waterfront (literally 5 minutes walk from Waterfront Station) with views of the Vancouver inlet by Canada Place. It is the mastermind of Seigo Nakamura. Miku is the sister restaurant to another top Vancouver sushi restaurant, Minami. Whether you’re looking for a celebration experience downtown or a romantic dinner for your significant other, Miku Restaurant is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Take a look at the pictures bellow. You’ll notice that Miku has some creative sushi creations that looks deliciously elegant. We’ve listed Miku as the #3 Best Sushi in Vancouver because their restaurant is not specifically a sushi bar. It’s easily one of the top fine Japanese dining in Vancouver however with delicious sushi. Their rolls are also rather creative and appealing. Miku is known for their aburi sushi, alluded by loyal patrons as the perfect combination of seared seafood, sushi rice, and seasoning.

Note that Miku Restaurant’s prices reflect the prime location and aesthetically crafted food. Their famous aburi sushi (which is a must-try at Miku) will cost you $17 for dinner. (typically not suffice in portion for a meal in itself.) Conveniently located on the side of 200 Granville Street, Miku overlooks the Vancouver waterfront being minutes from the busy Vancouver Cruise Ship terminal at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Miku makes for a perfect first date or business dinner; the ambiance, food, and service work in combination to delivery a remarkable experience. As some may know, Miku is no secret to Vancouverites who enjoy good sushi and Japanese cuisine.

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/miku-vancouver-2

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d1212806-Reviews-Miku-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Read the following review by LongBoardTime on Trip Advisor:

“Was recommended by hotel front desk and did not disappoint. Their signature flame seared salmon sushi with jalapeno has been on my mind ever since.”

Best sushi in Vancouver by Miku restaurant

Miku Restaurant in Vancouver is easily Vancouver’s best sushi restaurant right in the center of downtown Vancouver by the waterfront. The best Japanese fine dining in Vancouver.

Address: Give Miku Restaurant a visit in Vancouver and try out their specialty aburi sushi at 200 Granville Street – Suite 70, Vancouver, BC, V6C 1S4
Enjoy great waterfront views at Miku Restaurant.

2. Ajisai Sushi Bar

Ajisai Sushi Bar is a little out of the way from downtown Vancouver. (If you’re looking for good sushi in downtown Vancouver, then Miku is the place to be.) Still, this hole-in-the-wall sushi bar within the Kerrisdale community is well worth the hike (It’s Vancouver, a green city, so you better be hiking, taking the transit, or biking on one of our many bike lanes in the city.)

If you’re looking for authentic Japanese sushi in Vancouver, then Ajisai Sushi Bar is the place to go; Ajisai Sushi Bar is as authentic as it gets. It’s run by a Japanese owner and notoriously recommended by other sushi chefs, Ajisai Sushi Bar has built a reputation of excellent quality sushi authentically created for your palate’s pleasure… dare we say, the best sushi Vancouver has to offer? (Maybe, depends on your palate and preference.)

Surprisingly, despite it’s reputation, Ajisai Sushi in Vancouver is reasonably priced with a spicy salmon roll at $4 (very standard pricing) and a salmon Nigiri at $2. This combines both quality and value which is why we’ve listed Ajisai sushi #1 in our list of best sushi in Vancouver.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/ajisai-sushi-bar-vancouver

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d809147-Reviews-Ajisai_Sushi_Bar-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Sushi Vancouver assortment at Ajisai sushi

An assortment of sashimi and sushi from Ajisai Sushi Bar in Vancouver, BC. Looks delectable.

Address: You can give Ajisai sushi a visit at 2081 W 42nd Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V6M 2B4

3. Sushi Bar Maumi

Sushi Bar Maumi is a slightly lesser known Vancouver sushi restaurant (not anymore, it has been featured in various media since.) Among sushi enthusiasts, Sushi Maumi has been notoriously known as a taste of Japan in Vancouver with sushi chef Maumi serving memorable Omasake experiences for about just $70/person. Freshest seafood imported right from Japan, perfect sushi rice, exact temperature for your enjoyment – did you know, a good sushi chef warms the rice and fish in his hands bringing it to the right temperature before serving for your enjoyment during an Omasake? This is why, you ought to eat it immediately at serving…such a delicate art.

The sushi restaurant is located in the Davie neighborhood in downtown Vancouver. It’s very convenient location for many tourists staying in downtown Vancouver, and locals downtown. Nestled in Vancouver’s West End, Sushi Bar Maumi is the place to go for authentic sushi. Unfortunately, the seating size only accommodates 12 people with three tables and a sushi bar. They do serve take-out but not during Omasake sessions (available only by reservation). At VancityAsks, we like to feature these locally owned, specialty stores that may be overlooked and Sushi Bar Maumi tops the list. The BEST sushi in Vancouver hands down – for its type (authentic, no-frills dining with stupendous quality & freshness. A sushi chef’s attention.) They have local fish and fish freshly imported from Japan.

This Vancouver sushi bar is renown for it’s precise execution, freshness, and quality. Yet, the prices are surprisingly fair. It may not be the place you go for a large dinner party. They also don’t serve alcohol or rolls. This said, if you enjoy good sushi in Vancouver then Sushi Bar Maumi is your place to go. As a further note, looking through their Facebook page is much like browsing through a fish market. The owners at Sushi bar Maumi in Vancouver truly care about freshness and quality of their ingredients.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/sushi-bar-maumi-vancouver

Hear from Scottie on Yelp:

“Best sushi in Vancouver. I’m half japanese and my wife was born in Tokyo, we know our sushi and this place is legit”

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d4852892-Reviews-Sushi_Bar_Maumi-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Assorted nigiri at Vancouver’s Sushi Bar Maumi. Wishing you had some now didn’t you!

Address: Give Sushi Bar Maumi a visit at 1226 Bute Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 1Z8

5. Hitoe Sushi

Hitoe Sushi fully deserves it’s spot on the top 5 list of the best sushi in Vancouver. Hitoe Sushi is known for fresh and authentic sushi. It’s hard to go wrong with any sushi order at Hitoe Sushi. There’s a consistency with the quality and freshness of their food. Hitoe Sushi is one of many sushi restaurants in Vancouver run by an actual Japanese sushi chef who takes great pride in the food he makes. (Many sushi restaurants in Vancouver may actually be owned by Chinese or Korean as we’ve observed.)

The service is excellent, the decor is authentic and welcoming. The menu prices is a good deal for the quality and service you’ll find at Hitoe Sushi. With this, we’ve placed Hitoe Sushi as the #5 best sushi in Vancouver.

The sushi restaurant is situated in Vancouver hippy neighborhood, Kitsilano. (Case in point? This neighborhood is so filled with hipsters, their neighborhood party can’t be called Kistilano because that’s too main stream – it’s called Khatsahlano. In all seriousness, if you’re a tourist visiting Vancouver, pay a visit to Kitsilano – it is a beautiful community with a perfect blend of urban and nature landscape. It contrasts the metropolitan of downtown Vancouver with shop houses, artisan and boutique local stores, and no skyscrapers. It is also minutes from the beach. Vancouver beaches are not as other beaches however, it’s often filled with greenery and nature paths…and it’s often cold and rainy if you’re here November to February.) If you’re looking for a non-pretentious sushi restaurant in Vancouver with great sushi, then Hitoe Sushi is your pick. It is not fancy/fine dining and the restaurant is pretty small (about a 20 seats restaurant) neither is the decor elaborate but it is a local, authentic, sushi restaurant in Vancouver with a Japanese sushi chef preparing your food. A family-style restaurant with authentic sushi much like Ajisai Sushi.

4. Vancouver Sushi Restaurant

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/hitoe-sushi-japanese-restaurant-vancouver

This is what Candy L. on Yelp shared about Hitoe Sushi in Vancouver:

“This place is one of Kitsilano’s, and even Vancouver’s, best sushi restaurants. It’s very well hidden. Upon first glance, Hitoe looks cheap and average (and it is definitely not badly priced!). Take a chance and step inside.”

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d2357901-Reviews-Hitoe_Sushi_Japanese_Restaurant-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Here’s what Starry4 on Trip Advisor has to say about Hitoe Sushi:

“A few years back, I would have given it 4 stars, but it certainly deserves 5 stars now. It’s not easy to find a restaurant that gets better over the years. A lot of them would just be the same or some may even slide backwards in either their taste or services once they thought they had captured the market. This makes me think that these people at Hitoe not just work hard, they work with their hearts.”

Address: You can give Hitoe Sushi a visit at 3347 W 4th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V6R 1N6
Don’t miss it!
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Our Recommendations For The Best Vancouver Sushi:

There you have it. Hope you’ve enjoyed discovering the best sushi restaurants in Vancouver, BC. Don’t wait, give these delicious sushi restaurants a try then share your experience bellow. Your comments, feedback, and suggestions are welcomed!

As always, the recommendations/features on VancityAsks are not sponsored; we try to keep it as impartial as we can, disclosing any possible bias to truly discover the best of Vancouver together!

When you think of Vancouver, you likely think of rain, sushi, and beautiful scenery (in that order) so make sure you try Vancouver sushi if you’re visiting from out of town… at least, that’s what locals think.

Notable Mentions – Good Sushi in Vancouver:

Vancouver has over 600 sushi restaurants in this city. It’s hard to list just five great sushi places in Vancouver. Here are more excellent choices for good sushi in Vancouver that didn’t quite make the top 5 list. Difficult decisions had to be made. You may still enjoy these excellent sushi restaurants in Vancouver. Don’t hesitate to give these sushi restaurants a try.

Yui Sushi –

Nestled in Yaletown neighborhood of Vancouver, YUI Sushi which was only opened 2017 is making quite a splash among local Vancouverites and foodies alike. It is starkly similar to the food at MIKU with an exact replica of their infamous Aburi sushi that made MIKU famous. The prices at YUI Sushi is much cheaper than MIKU and the quality is on par; it is founded by a former MIKU restaurant chef. The only thing lacking at YUI Sushi is the ambiance of a waterfront restaurant at the perfect location of 200 Granville Street overlooking Vancouver’s waterfront. (Evidently, this is an allure to be dining with great views of Vancouver that quintessentially Vancouver. Nevertheless, the food at YUI Sushi is just as good as MIKU if you’re willing to forgo the views for your wallet.)

Tojo’s –

Made infamous by the California Roll and Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations and Cook’s Tour television episodes of Vancouver, Tojo’s have frequently been the go-to spot for sushi in Vancouver. Some say it’s overrated. It is absolutely good sushi, real wasabi, and a great personality/experience. It is worth a visit if you’re from out of town. It is also a little pricey for its location on West Broadway. (It’s worth boasting… Anthony Bourdain called Vancouver a cool city in 2008.)

Shizen Ya –

Japanese owned, authentic, healthy sushi is what you’ll find at Shizen Ya. Japanese owned and operated, Shizen Ya is a popular spot for excellent sushi in Vancouver. They are often packed at night. They have organic brown rice as an option for replacement of white sushi rice; they make their broth from scratch and they emphasize on healthy dining. It’s phenomenal healthy sushi in Vancouver.

Toshi Sushi –

Located in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood, this sushi restaurant is frequented by locals for fresh, authentic sushi and excellent prices. It’s a small sushi restaurant but certainly rivals some of the best Vancouver sushi restaurant.

Momo Sushi –

This is one of those Korean Japanese restaurants. They are known for their excellent value bento boxes and reasonably good sushi. It is worth a visit if you’re looking for sushi or Japanese food in Gastown.

Sushi Itoga –

Authentic Japanese sushi right on Robson Street (Robson Street rents are ridiculously expensive but the sushi prices are surprisingly cheap). The son of a successful sushi chef, his dad retired to help his son start Sushi Itoga on Robson Street. The sushi chef and his assistant makes all the sushi on the sushi bar at the store front of house so you can see it freshly made. My experience at Sushi Itoga was good service but the rice was a little overcook. Nevertheless, many echo the excellent sushi at Sushi Itoga. Good sushi if you’re looking for a sushi restaurant in downtown Vancouver that’s not pretentious serving authentic sushi and good value. Dining is at a communal long table in the centre of the Robson Street store or by the window so not a great pick for formal dining.

Kishimoto –

Founded in the Commercial Drive neighborhood, this quaint sushi restaurant is also known for their aburi sushi. There’s often a line-up for their delicious Japanese cuisine but it’s well worth the wait. If you visit try their aburi sushi and fresh sashimi. The service and ambiance is excellent as well; Kishimoto very rivals a spot for the best sushi restaurant in Vancouver. It is a little farther away for most being on the Drive however; not exactly a popular Vancouver neighborhood nor near any scenic water lookout.

Feedback Request – What’s your Favourite Vancouver Sushi Restaurant?

Are you a local Vancouverite? Have you visited Vancouver and tried an amazing sushi restaurant that wowed your trip? Please comment bellow if you think we’ve missed any of the best sushi restaurants in Vancouver. It will be properly considered and updated accordingly. We try to try all sushi restaurants before recommending it after a rigorous comparison of digital reviews that had been checked for validity. (through identity verification and underlying tones)

Basically, we truly want to find the Best Sushi in Vancouver!

Sushi Fun Fact – Why is it Called Sashimi?

In case you were wondering, why is raw fished is called Sashimi…it means pierced body in Japanese.

(sashi = pierced) + (mi = body)

This is apparently from sticking the fish tail and fin to identify the fish being eaten. Besides that, it would make more sense to call it cut fish wouldn’t it? Although kiru, the word for cut, was inauspicious back then, so sashimi it is…so long as it tastes good.

Best Sushi in Vancouver Updates:

We keep all our recommendations on VancityAsks periodically updated and reviewed to ensure the validity and accuracy of our best sushi in Vancouver recommendations. As such, certain sushi restaurants are replaced or shuffled in our Best Vancouver sushi feature.

In case, you’re interested in reading about them, we’ve included the former suggestions here along with a chronological list of updates and when they occurred.

Any omitted recommendations will be copy and pasted here bellow in the next heading after Vancouver Sushi Forecasts. We are generally reluctant and slow to changing our list as we have confidence in its accuracy and put a lot of effort to writing it in the first place. Therefore, any changes will be contemplated (in the Vancouver Sushi Forecast) and then updated in the following update. (In short, it takes two update cycles to push a new restaurant or remove a restaurant from our top 5 list.) Our recommendations are reviewed for updates periodically every three to six months.

January 31, 2019: Removal of Hoshi Sushi @ Sandbar – revised recommendations due to declining experience & inconsistencies of guest experience. (Hoshi Sushi @ Sandbar was initially recommended due to some chef’s recommendations but one person’s taste/experience does not constitute the overall customer experience. Unfortunately, Hoshi Sushi @ Sandbar has by the majority of experience been bellow par.) We have included the original description here for transparency and your reference.

4. Hoshi Sushi at the Sandbar

Hoshi Sushi at the Sandbar is another must try. You get a waterfront sushi experience on Granville Island. You know it’s quality over quantity at Hoshi Sushi because the Sandbar is run by Sequoia Company of Restaurants. They are known effectively for good dining experiences; it’s the same company that runs the restaurant at Stanley Park.

The SandBar is actually a seafood restaurant but it has it’s own sushi bar and sushi masterchef, Hoshi Tsutomu, hence Hoshi sushi. If you’re planning something special and willing to splurge for a memorial night/afternoon then go for Hoshi sushi at the Sandbar. A fair warning however that experience can vary.

Conveniently located on Granville Island, Hoshi Sushi is also a great opportunity for tourists and visitors of Vancouver to stroll this former industrial island, now turned into a beautiful market, brewery, nightlife, and dining hot spot. Granville Island has many notable experiences including some of the Best Fish & Chips in Vancouver at Go Fish, craft beer at Granville Island Brewery, Roger’s Chocolate, and many artisan vendors within the Granville Island Market. When you’re done with enjoying some of the best sushi in Vancouver at Hoshi Sushi, save room for desserts as you try the best donuts in Vancouver at Lee’s Donut (It’s not the most fancy donut or unique creations but it is a good, old, classic that’s been around for decades and a Vancouverite favourite. Most Vancouverites know about Lee’s Donut; it’s an establishment.) If you prefer something more delicate, be sure to try ChocolaTas in the Granville Island market as well; the work of a chocolate maker who apprenticed at a Belgian chocolate maker who was the exclusive supplier to royalty. Basically, if you’re looking for good sushi and a memorable experience, then Hoshi Sushi at the Sandbar would probably be an excellent pick. It’s a great spot to visit as tourists and bring out of town guests. If you’re going to grab some fries at Granville Island Market, make sure the seagulls don’t steal them!

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/the-sandbar-seafood-restaurant-vancouver-2

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d710048-Reviews-The_Sandbar_Seafood_Restaurant-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Address: Visit Hoshi sushi in Grandville Island at 1535 Johnston Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3R9

Vancouver Sushi Forecast:

We’ll likely be replacing Hoshi Sushi at the Sandbar with YUI Sushi in time. Yui Sushi is a restaurant opened by the former MIKU restaurant chef. They feature a very similar menu and quality to MIKU at a much value for money pricing. Same taste, different atmosphere.

Thanks for reading about the BEST sushi in Vancouver, BC on VancityAsks.com:

We hope you enjoyed learning more about the best sushi in Vancouver. If you have any questions, feedback or concerns regarding the content on this article, please feel free to comment bellow or use the contact us form. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and correct representation of the best sushi in Vancouver. We hope you found this to be a useful resource, if you would like to learn more about Vancouver and Metro Vancouver then please feel free to browse our other articles on Vancouver.

Food

Best Pizza in Vancouver BC

September 10, 2015 Published by: VancityAsks

Last Updated: February 11, 2022

When it comes to pizza, you’re are not short of choices in Metro Vancouver, City of Vancouver proper, or even downtown Vancouver for that matter. Walk any two blocks and you’ll see plenty of options (for pizza, but especially cafes in Vancouver).

However, there are times you want to go for the best of the best pizza in Vancouver; these are times when you’re searching for something you can bring your out-of-town (even Italian) friends & family to, and savor what REAL good pizza in Vancouver should taste like.

This is what you’re going to find a few paragraphs bellow…the best pizzas in Vancouver, BC.

Many Good Pizzas in Vancouver, but we want to find & share the BEST Pizza in Vancouver:

There are many more commendable pizza restaurants that we unfortunately do not have the space to recommend onto the 5 best pizza in Vancouver article… Hence, difficult decisions had to be made; nevertheless please comment bellow to vouch for your favourite restaurants in Vancouver, for the best pizza in Vancouver.

Your opinion matters. We look to curate the local’s opinion together so your comments and feedback will directly improve the recommendations for the best pizza in Vancouver. However, not everything is taken equally; you can’t please everyone so we do careful fact-checking to ensure accurate representation of the best pizza restaurants in Vancouver. So much work for pizza you say? It is worth it!

Searching for the BEST Pizza in Vancouver, BC:

When looking for the best pizza in Vancouver, we looked for <1> authenticity, <2> taste, <3> quality of ingredients, <4> experience including service and atmosphere, and <5> value – because who doesn’t like good & cheap pizza! (only if it’s good.)

Non-Sponsored Recommendations for the BEST Pizza in Vancouver:

As always, all articles on VancityAsks are non-sponsored to minimize bias. We truly endeavour to find the BEST in Vancouver to help locals rediscover their amazing city, and visitors to experience the best of Vancouver.

BONUS – Free Gift Cards to the Best Pizza in Vancouver May be Given in Comments Periodically:

We may be giving away gift cards to the best pizza restaurants in Vancouver periodically to readers who comment on this article! (As and when…like when Vancouver is depressingly rainy.) So remember to share bellow this article what your favourite go-to pizza joints are to find the BEST pizza in Vancouver!

Most of our contests and giveaways will be administrated through our Facebook Page however… so check there.

Without further ado…

The 5 Best Pizza in Vancouver:

1. Lombardo’s Pizzeria:

Lombardo’s is easily one of the best Vancouver pizza restaurants. They offer both take-out and dine-in.

It’s unassumingly nestled in a mall (Il Mercato) by Commercial Drive (the vicinity of 1st Avenue and Commercial Drive is known as Little Italy for Vancouver) although they are famed for their delicious and authentic Italian pizzas for over 25 years! It’s family-owned and operated that uses local and fresh ingredients with an authentic Italian flavor.

Prices are very standard for upscale pizza in Vancouver around $13 – $17 for your Margarita to their signature Blanca (EVOO, grana padano, slow roasted red onions, garlic confit, gorgonzola, arugula). Mmmm.

If you’re looking for pizza that tastes like it was made by your Italian grandmother (if you had an Italian grandmother) then Lombardo’s Pizzeria is where you want to go for the best pizza in Vancouver.

Note of Caution however – Quality has since been hit and miss; almost comical is serving boxed ice cream sandwiches for desserts. (Honestly, embarrassing!) Skip their pasta and desserts, but pizza is good. Nevertheless, for these reasons, we may soon be revising Lombardo’s Pizzeria from the #1 Best Pizza in Vancouver to somewhere on our best pizza in Vancouver article; despite the article being about the best pizza in Vancouver, such lapse with other menu items may reveal a lack of attention to detail, or excellence and quality… that we look for on VancityAsks.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/lombardos-pizzeria-and-restaurant-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/lombardos-ristorante-and-pizzeria-grandview

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d706373-Reviews-Lombardo_s_Ristorante_Pizzeria-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Pics (for drooling):

Address: 1641 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y3

2. Via Tevere Pizzeria:

What does Via Tevere Pizzeria have to offer Vancouver? There aren’t any shortage of good pizza but Via Tevere is different in a good way, that’s why it’s earned the spot at numero due (I had to Google that admittedly.) on our list of the best Vancouver pizza restaurants in Vancouver.

Different as in using real wood-fire to make their pizzas with a crispy crust, and flavourful fragrance (Enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza with a burst of flavour & fragrance from the wood fire; the way it was made when pizza was first invented in Italy because they certainly didn’t have electric ovens in 997 AD ?). Different as in hand-kneading their pizza dough (Yes, it’s made fresh.) Different as in trying to serve true Neapolitan Pizza; they are first generation Canadians with deep roots in Naples.

The owner grew up in Naples and understands what it takes to make authentic Neapolitan pizza. Via Tevere even has a travelling Pizzeria in the form of a food truck that roams Vancouver streets; most often found at Burrard street and Pender street on Tuesdays to Fridays.

Via Tevere Pizzeria menu is not extensive but perfectly sized with only the best of Italian food in Vancouver. Dinner menu includes options such as their daily pasta, antipasto, home-style meatballs or polenta for appetizers. Their true specialty however is Vancouver pizzas (priced reasonably from $13 for the classic Margherita to $21 for the Capricciosa – Tomato, ﬁor di latte, prosciutto cotto, salame, artichokes, mushroom, olive). Great for sharing as a family dinner or eating all by yourself. (I won’t be complaining about that when the pizza is this good!) Try their desserts as well specifically the “Graﬀe con Nutella” because who doesn’t like nutella on handmade Neapolitan fritters? You can be sure, Via Tevere Pizzeria in Vancouver won’t be serving you ice cream sandwiches as gelato (at least, I hope not!) Speaking of which, if you’re looking for the best gelato in Vancouver, then look here.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/via-tevere-vancouver?osq=Via+Tevere+Pizzeria

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/via-tevere-grandview-vancouver

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d3488975-Reviews-Via_Tevere_Pizzeria-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Drool-worthy Pics:

Best Pizza in Vancouver for good reason. Pizza by wood, stone oven.

Looks good doesn’t it? You should try it. That’s why we’ve listed Via Tevere Pizzeria as the #3 BEST pizza in Vancouver.

Address: 1190 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 4G5 (Further making the point of how many pizza restaurants there are in Vancouver – just look at this map of the Commercial Drive neighborhood. Within this area there are Lombardo’s Pizza, Fire Pizza, Pizza Garden, and Via Tevere Pizzeria! That’s not even considering the other generic options like Fresh Slice, Pizza Hut, or Domino’s – which isn’t really worth mentioning when you’re looking for the best pizza in Vancouver. Which we ended up mentioning, just like Justin Bieber’s “Never Say Never” song. He was Canadian till the Americans ruined him. Technically, still Canadian – once every five years when he comes to Vancouver to renew his passport…via private jet.)

3. Pizzeria Farina:

Pizza Farina is the product of Ask for Luigi and located well in Stratacona. (Pizzeria Farina is like the more liked younger child compared to Ask for Luigi because pizza > pasta.) This hole in the wall pizza restaurant is open from 5 PM (because nobody eats pizza at 5 AM unless they are drunk) till their dough runs out…and they run out of dough on a nightly basis! (rather quickly, so come early to avoid being disappointed.)

It’s a small restaurant. Pizza Farina in Vancouver, BC is known for old school design and quality with traditional ingredients on their homemade dough for some good rustic pizza. They have the classics but also a daily special if you want to eat there every day of the week (which you just might after you’ve tried pizza at Pizzeria Farina), you got variety still. If you’ve been to Ask for Luigi as recommended on our 5 Best Italian Restaurants in Vancouver then you should definitely give Pizzeria Farina a visit as well.

If you’re on a pizza crawl to find the best pizza in Vancouver, you can’t give Pizzeria Farina a miss. Surprisingly for such quality and artisan flavors, (add free hipster aromas) prices are similar to Via Tevere Pizzeria with a classic Margarita at $13. Drop in for the pizza but not for the ambiance because the restaurant is small, making it packed when crowded; best for takeout. No-frills, delicious authentic thin-crust pizza in Vancouver, BC.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/pizzeria-farina-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/pizzeria-farina-strathcona-vancouver

Trip Advisor: http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d2390371-Reviews-Pizzeria_Farina-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Pics (for drooling):

Pizza of the day at Pizzeria Farina Vancouver pizza store

Pizza of the day at Pizzeria Farina in Vancouver.

Address: 915 Main St, Vancouver, BC V6A 2V8

4. Pizzeria Barbarella

Pizzeria Barbarella is the epitome of good pizza as sworn by many pizza enthusiast. The fans of Pizzeria Barbarella are also some of the most committed and competitive Italian foodies; you’ll find them proudly claiming Pizzeria Barbarella as the best pizza in Vancouver (for good reason) as if they owned the restaurant themselves. You’ll find classic pizza made right at Pizzeria Barbarella; how you would find it in Italy. A little bit like this.

It’s a family owned and run pizza store that has quite a personalized experience. You can meet the owner and the pizza is good! They use fresh, local, and organic ingredients in their pizza – three wins! It’s good Italian style pizza in Vancouver.

Superb, outstanding, amazing, satisfied…these are some words that you’ll find customers of Pizzeria Barbarella describe the delicious pizza served at this cozy family pizzeria. The pizza restaurant in Vancouver is located about 20 minutes from downtown on busy Broadway street right about where Fraser street intersects. It’s an unassuming store nestled between various eateries (close to pho) and close distance to VCC (Vancouver Career College) – making it an excellent location.

Yelp: http://www.yelp.ca/biz/pizzeria-barbarella-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/pizzeria-barbarella-mount-pleasant

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d2589348-Reviews-Pizzeria_Barbarella-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Pizza in the oven at Pizza Barbarella Vancouver

Pizza Barbarella Vancouver – Pizza in their stone oven.

Address: 654 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1X6

5. Firecrust Neapolitan Pizzeria:

Here’s a little novelty pizza concept that has since became exceptionally popular among franchisees and patrons alike. It’s worth a mention. Unlimited toppings, you-choose, you-build, make-it-yourself, pizza that has caught on in Canada and the United States. (We’ve tried some build-yourself pizza in Vancouver that’s awful because the crust gets soggy without the proper dough or stone oven.)

Firecrust is one of several unlimited toppings pizzeria you will find in Vancouver. We have chosen it because their crust importantly is good and the location is conveniently nestled downtown on Davie street. The pizza is then baked in their stone oven; it’s as quick as 90 seconds when the oven is at 600 degrees. (The difference between a stone oven and those fake individual pizza ovens some other franchises use that leave the crust soggy.)

It may not be very authentic once you start loading your pizza with pineapple, bacon, and the likes but if you’re looking for delicious pizza in downtown Vancouver with unlimited toppings, then Firecrust Pizzeria is your pick. It is good value at $10.95 for a 12 inch pizza with as many toppings as they have (except prosciutto which costs an additional $3.) As they say in Naples, “Buon appetito!”

Yelp: https://www.yelp.ca/biz/firecrust-neapolitan-pizzeria-vancouver

Zomato: https://www.zomato.com/vancouver/firecrust-neapolitan-pizzeria-downtown-vancouver

Trip Advisor: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d11728149-Reviews-Firecrust_Davie-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html

Pics:

Firecrust Pizzeria Vancouver - Good pizza in Vancouver.

Delicious pizza waiting to be eaten at Firecrust Pizzeria in Vancouver on 808 Davie Street. Choose your own toppings for one price.

Address: 808 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2S2

Honorable Mentions – Good Pizza in Vancouver, BC:

As mentioned, there are so many good pizza restaurants in Vancouver that it is hard to find only the five best pizza in Vancouver. As with competition, quality and value increases for customers. There are many other great pizza restaurants in Vancouver that haven’t quite edge it on to our top 5 list. These are still worth visiting and trying if you enjoy good Vancouver pizza.

Goldies: Not the best pizza in Vancouver BUT it is good pizza (albeit pricey – you’re better off at Firecrust or Farina around downtown Vancouver) but convenient location with good thin-crust pizza.

Address – 605 W Pender Street Vancouver, BC V6B 1W7

Martini’s Restaurant: One of the original wholewheat pizza crusts in Vancouver. Excellent pizza. Highly recommended by our friends on Facebook.

Address – 151 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1P4

Pizza Garden: The staple for many pizza enthusiasts looking to get a quick bite of delicious Neapolitan pizza. They make good and simple with a variety of delicious toppings, available by the slice or the whole pie. The pizza is baked in a stone oven for extra crispness for the crust with the right amount of chewy-ness to the crust (very important for good Neapolitan pizza). Reasonably priced at $6.50 for two slices and a drink/water. Nothing extravagant that

Address – Franchise with several locations in Vancouver, but downtown Vancouver @ 675 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2C9

Well there’s our top 5 best Vancouver pizza recommendations. We want to hear your feedback. Feel free to comment bellow and share your opinion, thoughts, dissatisfaction on these recommendations… or suggest any other pizza restaurant you think should be in the top 5 best Vancouver pizza. Let’s give tourists and locals alike the chance to experience the best of our amazing city, yeah?

Thanks for reading. We hope you enjoyed our recommendations for the Best Pizza in Vancouver! We hope you go try them. (As usual, all content on VancityAsks is non-sponsored to truly find the best of Vancouver, impartial. Composed with community feedback, suggestions, and first hand experiences – we want to share the best of Vancouver…not just the fake touristy – often paid – suggestions you get from the concierge either. When voting system is in place only the biggest businesses who annoy their customers win – you end up getting only franchises winning with marketing budget, instead of the mom and pops style restaurants; we want to find the low-key spots and the well-known bests alike!)

Ps. It was hard to choose between good and best, but we’ve tried. We get it! If X store isn’t on the top 5, the list ain’t creditable. Well, if you insist so, leave a comment bellow and we’ll look at it. Note that everyone’s taste is different so we’ve tried our best to list the top 5 Best Pizza in Vancouver. I recommend you give each of these stores a visit.