It’s official – COFU is no longer just expanding, it’s transforming Vancouver’s plant-based dining scene.
After months of anticipation, the team behind the Granville Island sushi shop (ok, it is just a block out from it) has soft opened their brand-new Chinatown location.
But this isn’t a copy and paste of their current concept – they’re Canada’s first fully vegan sushi omakase counter.
The new space takes over the previous long-empty corner unit at Gore Street, previously home to Kevin & Kevin Juice.
Led by founder Akiko Gulkison, a single mother and immigrant entrepreneur from Japan, COFU has always been about reimagining Japanese culinary tradition through a plant-based lens.
The name itself, COFU (古風), means “antiquated” in Japanese, a nod to the restaurant’s mission to bring ancient culinary practices into modern, sustainable dining.
At the new Gore location, that vision takes center stage with an 18-course omakase featuring seasonal vegetables and housemade vegan specialties.
Some courses include nigiri made from Mushroom & Avocado with Lotus Root, Veggie Skewers, and Canada’s first vegan “eel made with tofu, eggplant, and nori.
In addition to the evening omakase, they also offer a regular casual dining menu featuring a variety of beautifully arranged bento sets and sides.
Options include their Shokado Bento in Pine, Bamboo, or Plum variations, each highlighting appetizers, pressed sushi, veggie hamburg steaks, and simmered dishes.
There’s also a comforting Kids Bento, and even a Grilled Eel Bento -entirely plant-based, of course.
The COFU team also shared with Noms Magazine that during the day (6:30 am – 12 pm), the shop will transform into Hush, a coffee shop inspired by Japanese tea rooms.
Here they offer a small selection of coffee, non-caffeinated drinks, and housemade cakes.
Interior wise – they’ve fully transformed the bright & white vibe from Kevin & Kevin Juice into an elevated minimalist Japanese aesthetic.
A sleek 10-seat omakase counter dominates the room, lined with cushioned caramel-toned chairs.
Behind the counter, a wall accented with abstract brush-like textures provides an artistic backdrop to a full espresso setup and open prep space.
Soft lighting, natural wood finishes, and subtle black detailing bring a quiet sophistication, while cozy booth seating along the window offers an inviting nook for casual daytime visits.
The space has a nice mix for its purpose: from a serene café vibe during the day to an intimate omakase experience in the evening.
COFU Chinatown will be joining other new food spots in Vancouver like Bento Cafe, Red Wasabi, and Matcha Corner.
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Address: 488 Gore Ave, Vancouver BC