Kitsilano’s newest hand roll bar has quietly entered its pre-opening phase.
After nearly two years of construction, redesigns, delays, and permits, Kagura Handroll Bar has finally opened its doors on West 4th for limited weekday lunch service.
You will find it right beside Their There, marked by a simple black and white sign and a calm wooden interior that immediately feels different from everything else on the block.
Kagura begins with a small pre-opening menu.
Only a handful of hand rolls are available along with a single set, and service is limited to lunchtime for now.
In December, they will shift into their soft opening period with more hand roll options, tempura, and dinner service.
The name Kagura comes from a sacred Japanese tradition.
It represents quiet beauty, ritual, and respect. That philosophy flows through every part of the space, from the textured walls to the bonsai tree display near the entrance.
Inside, the entire restaurant circles around a large hand roll counter.
The seating wraps around the chefs, giving guests a clear view of every step as the rolls are prepared one by one.
It is similar to the Hello Nori experience but since it was pre-opening, it was a noticeably calmer, more intimate atmosphere.
Kagura is a new concept created by Kei, the founder of Ebi Ten on Robson Street.
After more than twenty five years serving fast casual Japanese food downtown, he wanted to build something slower and more personal.
A place rooted in the Kitsilano neighbourhood where people could pause, enjoy simple food, and feel a sense of harmony.
Kei has spent decades working with tempura and Japanese cuisine.
He describes Kagura as a second founding for himself, created at fifty-five with the experience of a lifetime behind it.
We visited anonymously during their pre opening lunch service.
The Kits Set was the only option available, which included three hand rolls and edamame.
The hand rolls arrived one at a time, made fresh at the counter and served immediately while the nori was still crisp.
Although the tempura menu was not available yet, staff shared that the batter will closely resemble what you would find in Japan with a thinner texture and sesame oil as the base.
If you are more patient than we were, waiting for December might be worth it so you can try the full tempura offerings.
The space itself is beautifully done.
Warm wooden panels frame the counter.
Soft lighting reflects off the textured cream walls.
A sculpted bonsai tree sits near the front, adding a quiet moment of calm as soon as you step inside.
It all feels intentional, peaceful, and actually very Kitsilano.
Kagura now joins the growing list of new Vancouver openings this season, including Dix, Jack’s Chowder at Bentall, and Dante Commercial.
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: 2036 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M9