Restaurant Awards 2023: The Best Japanese Restaurants in Vancouver

The top Japanese restaurants in Vancouver in 2023.

The Best Japanese Restaurants in Vancouver 2023

Gold: Masayoshi

Incredible precision and thoughtful creativity make up the OMG-worthy omakase that earns Masayoshi the gold in this category. From masterful techniques (deftly executed knife skills) down to basic essentials (rice that is perfectly cooked and seasoned), chef Masayoshi Baba shows diners how it’s done at close range. Poached Royal Miyagi oysters are dressed with shirako paste, housemade mullet roe and yuzu peel before your eyes. “No false luxuries, nothing show-offy, no shortcuts,” remarked one of our judges.

4376 Fraser St., Vancouver
masayoshi.ca 

Masayoshi. Photo: Leila Kwok.

Silver: Yuwa Japanese Cuisine 

Silver is awarded to Yuwa for a menu that demonstrates excellence, beauty and variety, from sockeye salmon tartare to sweet soy-braised steak to fluffy steamed manjuu—not to mention friendly, informed and elegant service.

2775 W 16th Ave., Vancouver
yuwa.ca 

platters of food at Yuwa
Yuwa.

Bronze: Stem Japanese Eatery

Stem takes the bronze thanks to fresh, hyper- seasonal dishes that are full on the palate and not so hard on the wallet (the five-course mini omakase is $95).

5205 Rumble St., Burnaby
stemjapanese.ca 

Photo: Stem

Honourable Mention: Sushi Hil

Newcomer Sushi Hil earns an honourable mention (learn more in our Best New category).

3330 Main St., Vancouver
sushihil.com 

Looking for more of the best restaurants in Vancouver? See all 70+ restaurants on the list.