Originally from Japan, and with over 200 locations across Asia, Pepper Lunch is a popular food outlet that serves sizzling meat, rice, and vegetables on a hot iron plate.

Pepper Lunch opened its first Canadian location in Richmond last spring, and its Vancouver location (2323 Cambie Street) is set to open next Tuesday (April 12). It will have its soft-opening on Saturday (April 9), but doors will be open on Friday (April 8).

Located in the bustling area between Whole Foods Market and the Running Room, the 2,200-square-foot eatery features a loft-like interior with 25-foot ceilings, ample natural lighting, as well as a unique chalkboard-style wall display.

The 40-seat restaurant also has a mezzanine that can seat up to 10 people, though that space is reserved for private dining or special events that will be available for bookings.

As for the menu, guests can expect nothing less than a fun, unique, and delicious experience. The sizzling dishes are brought over to your table and you proceed to mix in the different ingredients: the meat with the rice and the vegetables with the egg and cheese, for example, followed by a topping of one of Pepper Lunch's special sauces.

"It’s something different from what Vancouverites have been eating," said Denis Sy, general manager of both the Richmond and Vancouver Pepper Lunch locations, during an interview with the Straight. "It’s also different in a way because you eat your meal in a warm state all throughout. The plate stays hot for about an hour and you really enjoy your meal." 

Some must-try items at Pepper Lunch include its signature beef pepper rice, Kobe beef burger steak, 8.5-oz sliced Angus steak, and a creamy prawn pepper pasta. All beef is 100 percent Canadian-certified Angus and there are also vegetarian options available.

"It’s a whole different experience, because it’s a different type of dining experience and it’s also good quality," restaurant spokesperson Dianne Sy said. "Our beef is certified Angus beef, all our suppliers are local, and I think that’s something Vancouver people cherish near and dear to their hearts when they go to restaurants."

Remember to save some room for dessert, because you’ll want to order a plate or two after eyeing the Japanese-style cheesecake and Mochi ice cream on table next to yours.

Pepper Lunch offers seven different flavours of Mochi ice cream: green tea, red bean, black sesame, vanilla, strawberry, mango, and chocolate. Sweet, cold, and chewy, these bites of goodness will be the perfect end to your meal.

Pepper Lunch's Cambie location will be open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. It will also have a take-out menu available.

For more information and the full menu, click here.

Take a look at the photos below for an exclusive tour of the second Canadian Pepper Lunch outlet.