One of Tofino’s most celebrated restaurants is bringing its modern Korean flavours to Vancouver this fall.
Jeju Restaurant, the award-winning eatery that earned a finalist spot in enRoute’s Canada’s Best New Restaurants 2022 list, is opening its second location.
But this time in Mount Pleasant.
The new Jeju will serve dinner in a space designed to reflect the natural beauty of both Jeju Island in Korea and Tofino on Canada’s West Coast.
Owners Sung and Dylan Kim, the husband-and-wife team behind the concept, are excited to expand to the city where they first met and began their hospitality careers.
The Vancouver outpost continues Jeju’s philosophy of reinterpreting traditional Korean dishes through a refined, contemporary lens.
Dylan, who serves as executive chef, worked closely with his mother, Myungseok “Julie” Suh — a professional chef of more than 40 years — to develop a menu that blends culinary heritage with modern creativity.
His father also joins the family operation, helping behind the scenes, while Sung manages front-of-house operations.
You’ll be able to expect fan faves from the Tofino location, such as Spot Prawn with dill oil, orange vinaigrette, and garlic aioli, and Galbi featuring 35-day-aged Korean BBQ CAB short ribs served with homemade kimchi and pickled radish.
There will also be new creations, including a seasonal fish dish inspired by doenjang jjigae, the classic Korean soybean paste stew.
All essential ingredients continue to be sourced directly from Sung’s grandmother’s farm in Korea, ensuring authenticity in every dish.
On the drinks side, the upcoming restaurant will introduce a new four-season cocktail menu crafted in collaboration with Byungjin Lim of Seoul’s Bar Cham, ranked among Asia’s and the world’s best bars.
The program will feature Korean fruits, herbs, and house-infused soju, designed to pair harmoniously with Jeju’s dishes.
The interior, designed by Vancouver’s &Daughters and constructed by Must’ART, reflects the restaurant’s connection to both tradition and place.
Large woven light fixtures recall the thatched roofs of Jeju Island’s chogajip houses, while a polished concrete floor mimics the soft gradient of Tofino’s Long Beach.
A central bar, booths, and a Chef’s Counter with a direct view of the kitchen create a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere.
“The most significant gift Jeju has given us is connection,” says owner Sung Kim. “Connection to our guests, our community, our team, and most importantly, our families. From my grandmother’s farm to recipes passed down through generations, we’re grateful to share that story with Vancouver.”
Jeju’s Vancouver location will officially open on November 13, 2025, with reservations available online.
Jeju now joins other upcoming food spots in Vancouver like C Market Coffee Main Street, Onigiri Ya Downtown, and Chaiiwala West End.
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: 540 East Broadway, Vancouver BC