Located on the corner of Waterloo Street and West Broadway, this small shop is a hidden gem in the Kitsilano neighbourhood. Upon entering, you’ll notice the laid-back décor and feel-at-home vibe—the restaurant is lined with wooden tables and chairs, and fish-shaped lanterns hang from the ceiling.

This sushi joint serves a variety of fresh sashimi and classic rolls, but you’ll also find a long list of special rolls, including the Crispy Roll—similar to a dynamite roll but topped with a crispy crust and served with peanut and wasabi sauce. But what people come here for is the aburi sushi menu—flame-seared bites of goodness. This type of sushi became popular at the higher-end Miku and Minami restaurants, but this is a cheaper alternative that is equally satiating.

Try its signature salmon oshi aburi sushi, with oshi sauce and serano, or the aburi tobiko roll made with real crab meat. The fatty and creamy salmon immediately melts in your mouth. If you walk in during lunch or dinner rush hours, it will be packed. But the wait is worth it—even if you have to squish into the tight space.