9 Japanese Restaurants To Offer FREE One Bite Dishes As Part Of Vancouver Japanese Seafood Fair

Even though in Vancouver we’re lucky to be blessed with amazing fresh seafood, everyone knows that Japan is THE gold standard in delivering unparalleled quality fish.

That is all thanks to the Japanese seafood culture, which is an exquisite blend of tradition, sustainability, and innovation. 

Photo credits: Flynn Fan

For generations, Japan has developed unique methods of fishing, preservation, and culinary preparation, making seafood an integral part of its cuisine. 

From the bustling Tsukiji Market in Tokyo to the serene coastal fishing towns, seafood is celebrated in every corner of the country.

The care and respect for seafood are evident in every step, from the selective catching techniques aimed at sustainability to the artful preparation techniques that enhance flavour and texture.

Photo credits: AXP Photography

And even though Japan is more than 7,000 kms away from Vancouver, it is through their dedication to the seafood culture that allows us to enjoy extremely fresh fish at the restaurants here in the city. 

But just like fruits, fish harvests also change with the seasons. For Winter and Spring, Hokkaido Yellowtail and Scallops are in. 

To celebrate and share about the Japanese seafood culture, the Japan External Trade Organization is collaborating with 9 of the top Japanese restaurants in Vancouver for The Japanese Seafood Fair.

From March 1st – 10th, each of the participating restaurants will offer customers a free one bite plate of a fresh seasonal Japanese fish. 

This initiative not only promotes the quality of Japanese seafood but also showcases the culinary creativity of these local establishments as they craft a special dish for the fair.

Below are the participating restaurants and one bite plates:

Photo credits: Noah’s Cafe
  • Sake Dining Hashigo (120-1265 Granville St.): Hokkaido Scallop Matsumae Duke, Draft Sake Rairaku Sparkling, Hokkaido Scallop Wasabi 
  • Kingyo Izakaya (871 Denman St.) Hokkaido Goma Hama, Hokkaido Scallop and cabbage Kimchi
  • Takenaka (Mar. 1 – 3 @ Kawaii Japan Market UBC Robson; Mar. 4 – 10 @ 1370 E Georgia St.): Hokkaido Marinated Fresh Scallop with house made dressing
Photo credits: Suika
  • Suika Izakaya (1626 West Broadway): Kumamoto Miso-soy Yellowtail Carpaccio 
  • Noah’s Cafe (1096 Denman St): Kumamoto Sea Bream Crudo
  • Raisu (2340 West 4th Ave.) Hokkaido Scallop Sashimi with miso and shiso sauce
  • Zakkushi on Main (4075 Main St): Hokkaido Spicy Hotate Poke, Hokkaido Negi Shio Hotate
  • New Fuji (1815 West 1st Ave.): Hokkaido Hotate Kimchi
  • Rajio (3763 W 10th Ave): Hokkaido One bite Scallop with Uni Tartar

Now, these free dishes are only available to customers ordering at least one menu item per person. And each restaurant offers only a limited amount of plate per day so we recommend making a reservation just in case. 

This seafood fair isn’t just about eating; it is a new immersive experience to really recognize the processes and traditions behind Japan’s celebrated seafood culture. 

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