It looks like Chinatown is getting an interesting new addition.
Ever since Jamie from Buttermere Patisserie decided to temporarily shut down her Chinatown bakery back in May 2023, the space has been sitting empty.
For a long time we’ve been wondering what would eventually take over.
After nearly two years of vacancy, we finally have an answer.
Noms Community member Gloria L. spotted signs for Sio.
The upcoming business has window decals teasing words like “Sio Bread” and “Premium Kaisendon.”
If those words don’t immediately ring a bell, here’s what we’re guessing: Sio Bread likely refers to Shio Pan in Japanese, also known in Korean as soggeum bbang—or more commonly, salt bread.
This bread has gone mega viral across Asia in the last few years and has recently been making its way into Metro Vancouver’s food scene this year.
The allure of salt bread lies in how it’s baked—salted butter melted inside the dough, flowing to the bottom, where the butter crisps up the base as it bakes, creating a, golden-brown base with a rich, nutty aroma.
What you get is a fluffy brioche-like bun with savoury saltiness to it.
Then, there’s Kaisendon, which is essentially a Japanese seafood rice bowl.
A mix of fresh sashimi over rice, this dish is a staple in Japan and is widely loved for its fresh, umami-packed flavours.
While these two offerings might seem like an unexpected duo, it’s definitely a pairing we’re intrigued to try.
As of now, there’s little else known about Sio, but we’ll be keeping an eye out for more details.
But Sio will be joining COFU Pressed Sushi as the new upcoming food spots in Chinatown.
For more new and upcoming food spots in Metro Vancouver, take a peek at our tracker here, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter here.
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