Something mysterious is happening over at the old Wabukuro spot in Chinatown.
Wabukuro is a Japanese convenience store and bento spot that popped up near the International Village Centre back in 2021.
Well, it looks like it’s gone for good as we spotted it all covered up… and is transforming into something totally new.
The shop was a handy little stop for legit Japanese-style bento boxes – think Chicken Karaage, Pork Katsu, and Teriyaki Chicken packed neatly with rice and salad.
Plus, they had shelves stocked with Japanese snacks, sauces, and even frozen goodies.
Fun fact: Wabukuro is actually part of the same crew behind the popular Horin Ramen you know from Robson Street and Burnaby.
We spotted Wabukuro had quietly shut its doors for “maintenance” way back in November 2024.
For months, the windows stayed covered, leaving us wondering what was up.
But recently, the doors were open during renos, and a peek inside revealed a major change.
The convenience store setup and shelves of snacks are gone, replaced with what looks like a square bar area for seating and food.
Definitely screams “new restaurant incoming.”
So, we reached out to the Horin Ramen team, and they confirmed to Noms Magazine that Wabukuro is indeed being transitioned into a new restaurant concept.
However, they’re keeping the juicy details under wraps for now.
Is International Village getting another Horin ramen spin-off, or something entirely fresh from the group?
That new bar setup certainly has us guessing.
We’ll definitely be keeping our eyes peeled for more info.
Have you walked by or heard any whispers about what’s moving in? Let us know!
Address
660 Abbott street Vancouver, BC
