If you’ve ever strolled down Richards Street and spotted a tiny shop window offering vegan pudding, you might not realize the story behind it spans over a decade.
And now, that little shop has entered a new chapter.
Formerly known as Vegan Pudding & Co., the business has officially transformed into Sai Plant Deli, soft opening in June with a completely new focus.
While the name and main menu item have changed, the heart behind the business remains the same.
The brand was first launched ten years ago by Poet Sora and his wife Hiro.
After moving to Vancouver in 2011 for its vegan-friendly culture, the couple began hosting poetry readings featuring vegan food made by Hiro.
One of Sora’s requests was a vegan custard pudding for the event.
Hiro developed a recipe, and it quickly took off.
That pudding turned into a catering business, which eventually led to the opening of their small pudding shop on Richards.
Now, ten years later, the couple has rebranded the business and introduced something you’ll have a hard time finding anywhere else: oyaki.
A traditional Japanese dumpling from the mountainous Nagano region, oyaki is soft, golden on the outside, and warm and fluffy inside.
Sai claims to be the one and only oyaki store outside of Japan.
The dumplings come with a variety of plant-based fillings, including options like Classic Eggplant Miso, Cheesy Keema, Spicy Potato and Pepper, and Sweet Pumpkin with a hint of vegan butter.
They’re perfect as a hand-held snack or a light lunch, especially for those craving something cozy and nostalgic.
And for longtime fans of their original puddings, don’t worry.
Their beloved vegan custards are still available, continuing the tradition that started it all.
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Address: #101-422 Richards Street, Vancouver BC