Like other Metro Vancouver municipalities, Burnaby’s food scene also saw the loss of longtime neighbourhood favourites and newer hopefuls.
For some, it was the end of a decades-long run.
For others, it was a short-lived chapter cut short by changing tastes, rising costs, or redevelopment.
Here’s a look back at the Burnaby spots we lost in 2025 so far.
1. S&W Pepper House
After over 20 years in Crystal Mall, S&W Pepper House closed on June 20. Known for bold Sichuan flavours like cumin lamb, mapo tofu, and spicy boiled fish, it was a go-to for generations of Burnaby diners.
The restaurant is replaced by Korean Noodle House.
Address: 1 Kingsway #1812, Burnaby, BC V5H 2W7
2. SOJU
This Korean-Chinese fusion spot near Metrotown closed in early April after less than two years. Known for its $5.99 jajangmyeon, late-night hours, and soju-fuelled vibes, it was a favourite for budget-friendly eats.
SOJU is being replaced by an upcoming Malaysian restaurant.
Address: 5152 Kingsway, Burnaby, British Columbia V5H2E8
3. Mama Rich
After nine years on Kingsway, Mama Rich quietly closed in early 2025. Known for its pungent and addictive River Snail Noodles, this no-frills Guangxi spot was a hidden gem for comforting, flavour-packed Chinese dishes.
Address: 4949 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC
4. Fresh Ideas Start Here (F.I.S.H) Retail Shop
After 17 years in Market Crossing, Fresh Ideas Start Here closed its retail shop on April 30 to focus entirely online. Known for its sustainable seafood and community vibe, the move marked the end of its in-person fish counter era.
5. Pokey Okey Burnaby
Burnaby’s Kingsway location of Pokey Okey closed in February alongside their Richmond shop. Known for customizable poke bowls and over-the-top creations like the $100 Ruby Bowl, it had been serving locals since 2020.
Pokey Okey is being replaced by an upcoming Vietnamese rice roll spot.
6. On On Wonton House
After nearly 60 years on Kingsway, On On Wonton House closed in January. Known for Cantonese classics like beef brisket wonton noodle soup and sweet and sour pork, it was a longtime favourite for family dinners.
On On was replaced by Korean Chinese restaurant, 88 House.
Address: 5640 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 2G5
7. Double One
After 35 years in Burnaby Heights, Double One closed when its building was sold for redevelopment. Known for high-quality Chinese dishes and warm, personal service from owners Tony and Maggie, it was a true neighbourhood treasure.
Address: 4057 Hastings St, Burnaby, BC V5C 2J3
8. Ngon Cafe Burnaby
Ngon Cafe’s Metrotown location quietly closed in January after just three months. Known for its banh mi and Vietnamese coffee, the spot was a quick grab-and-go option for the busy Kingsway strip.
Ngon was replaced by Master Bao.
Address: 4621 Kingsway St. Burnaby BC
9. Sushi Bay
After just six months on Kingsway, Sushi Bay closed in June. The sushi and oyster bar struggled to gain traction, and the space is now set to reopen as Passion1818 Sushi Kaya.
Address: 6360 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5E 1C5
Although it is sad that these food spots has shut down, the good news is that there has been considerably less closures in Burnaby compared to Vancouver and Richmond.
We’ll take any glimmer of good news considering how doom and gloom things have been for the food industry.
For more new and upcoming food spots in Metro Vancouver, take a peek at our tracker here, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.