If you work or study near the Central Library in Downtown Vancouver, your lunch game just got a massive upgrade.
After announcing their expansion back in October, Onigiri-ya has now officially opened its doors downtown.
They quietly soft opened on November 27th.
This is the third location for the brand, which is actually a sister concept to the popular Maruhachi Ramen.
They have taken over the unit at 202–345 Robson Street (close to the doors leading to the library, replacing a short-lived shawarma shop.
The big draw here is undeniably the price tag.
In a neighbourhood where a sandwich can cost $18, these handmade rice balls start around just $2.99.
It is the ultimate “inflation buster” lunch.
However, since they are still in the soft opening phase, there are a few restrictions you need to know.
First, the menu is currently limited as the team settles into the new space.
You can still find the classics and over a dozen varieites, but the full lineup of premium fillings and bento boxes will expand over time.
Second, the operating window is extremely tight.
Right now, they are only open Monday to Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
That gives you exactly 2.5 hours to secure the goods before they close.
The team told Noms Magazine that they plan to extend these hours eventually, but for now, it is strictly a “lunch rush” operation.
Onigiri-ya Downtown joins a growing list of new food spots in Vancouver like Peaked Pies Broadway, Dante Commercial Drive, and Kagura Kitsilano.
For more new and upcoming food spots in Metro Vancouver, take a peek at our tracker here, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
Address: 202–345 Robson Street, Vancouver BC