Gastown is welcoming a new authentic izakaya spot called OKU Izakaya Bar.
Located at 2 Water Street and across from the iconic Hotel Europe flatiron building, the new spot quietly soft opened back on December 15th.
OKU Izakaya Bar, the brainchild of owner Takeshi Hasegawa, who is part of the Kitanoya Guu group and has had a hand in pioneering izakayas in Canada since the 90s.
So with more than 2 decades of experience in building izakaya shops, the new Gastown restaurant is in good hands.
Like most izakaya restaurants, you’ll find OKU’s menu to range from sushi to small plates, innovative dishes, and alcohol.
More specifically, items like sashimi paired with cheese or meat finished with kelp, thick-cut braised pork, boldly spiced karaage, and smoked silver cod.
In addition to these tapas-style offerings, guests can enjoy sashimi, creative hand rolls, and traditional nigiri sushi.
Taking over the previous Roosh unit, the space has transformed into a cozy and welcoming interior with an open kitchen, 10-person counter seats that will let you see the entire cooking process, and tables accommodating around 20 guests.
So if you’re on the lookout for the perfect spot to unwind after work or a casual bite and drink, this new izakaya bar may be the spot!
Address: 2 Water Street, Vancouver, BC