Vancouver’s must-try sushi for every occasion
The West Coast might truly be the best coast, with its access to fresh ocean-ingredients and highly skilled Japanese chefs. Vancouver’s sushi joints have a wide variety of offerings (for a wide variety of budgets!), from authentic melt-in-your-mouth sashimi to wild fusion rolls you never would’ve expected to enjoy.
The Eatery
3431 Broadway W, Vancouver, BC V6R 2B4For a funky dining experience unlike any other (we’re talking UV lights and customized t-shirts here!), this trendy spot is the place to go. Known for its ‘innovative’ sushi, the Eatery offers funky flavour combinations in rolls like the Japanese Fortress (spicy tuna with cucumber, topped with yam fries), the Drunken Monkey (smoked salmon, cream cheese, tempura asparagus, crab, roe and eel) and the KFC roll – take a guess as to what’s in this one! Conventional diners needn’t fear; their traditional fare is just as enjoyable.
Ajisai Sushi Bar
2081 42nd Ave W, Vancouver, BC V6M 2B4Many are blown away when they taste the mouth-watering sashimi at this quaint little spot, hidden in the heart of Kerrisdale. Diners can watch the sushi chefs work their magic, expertly slicing fresh pieces of fish and delicately arranging them onto beautiful plates. There might be a wait for a table at Ajisai, but it’s well justified if you’re a fan of fresh raw dishes.
Toshi Sushi
181 16th Ave E, Vancouver, BC V5T 4R2It’s not just the catchy name that makes locals and tourists alike return to this joint again and again – it’s the heavenly, ocean-friendly menu featuring some of the freshest fish around! As small as it is, snagging a table at Toshi Sushi may require a short (or long) wait, but in terms of leaving diners full and content, this place has got it down.
Shizen Ya
965 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1V3There’s something about the brown rice at Shizen Ya that complements the Japanese flavours so perfectly. Is it the texture? The wholesomeness? Who knows! Often referred to as a healthier sushi option, this MSG-free joint uses locally sourced, organic ingredients in their wonderful creations, which include many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The drink list is quite impressive as well, which is always a plus.