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Toshi Sushi
Categories: Restaurants Sushi Bars Restaurants Japanese Sushi Bars, Japanese [Edit]
181 E 16th AveVancouver, BC V5T 4R2
Neighbourhoods: Mount Pleasant, Riley Park
(604) 874-5173
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 5 pm - 9:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
89 reviews for Toshi Sushi
Review Highlights
"The black cod was soo buttery, so delicious."
(in 10 reviews)
"the avocado on the house roll - fresh and perfectly ripened."
(in 6 reviews)
"They don't accept reservations so prepare to line up."
(in 19 reviews)
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89 reviews in English
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Review from Stephanie W.
Vancouver, BC
12/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am downright ashamed that I didn't hear about Toshi until I moved into the neighbourhood. It is definitely one of my favourite sushi places and keep wanting to go back! We went at night around 8:30 so we didn't have to wait at all and the service was great - despite them getting ready to finish up for the day, my cup of tea was never empty. We ordered the following:
Baked Cod/Mackerel (can't remember now): Melted in our mouths. Absolutely delicious.
Baked Eggplant: Also amazing - the top was caramelized to the perfect point
Oyster Motoyaki: I didn't have any of this - my boyfriend really enjoyed it but pointed out that it was different that most place because it came in a ramekin and the oyster is cut up into pieces. He preferred it over having the whole oyster in his mouth and having to deal with it like that, but we did notice someone else sending it back - we can understand how this is a preferential thing and perhaps they didn't think it was appropriate? So, whole-oyster-lovers beware.
Nabeyaki Udon: This was just alright... but as my boyfriend pointed out, it's hard to make Nabeyaki Udon spectacular. I wouldn't order it again but I'm definitely not taking points off
Box Sushi: Very refreshing! There's literally a thin slice of lemon on top - I really enjoyed it at the end of my meal because it was so refreshing, but I can imagine some people not keen on the lemon part. -
Review from Ellen L.
2/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Uh oh, I think I'm starting to get really picky with my restaurants. I mean, there is just so much amazing food in Vancouver, it can be hard to stand out. That's exactly where Toshi falls for me. The food was well-prepared and made with fresh quality ingredients, but unfortunately there was no wow factor in my meal tonight.
Seaweed Salad - not a fan of the over-abundance of iceberg lettuce. Otherwise quite refreshing.
Box Sushi - battera style sushi. This seemed to be much raved. A big meh for me. Everything is all mushed up and no flavour really came through. I just tasted rice. And lots of it.
Alaska Roll - this was a surprising winner. Simply made, but well made. I'm so used to the Alaska rolls at Korean-run Japanese restaurants that I forgot how delicious this could be without any flavour-enhancing sauce. Just perfect.
Tuna & Salmon Sashimi - very fresh. Salmon was a deep red colour.
Baked Eggplant - was this supposed to be a candied dessert or something?! Confusing!
Oyster Motoyaki - another winner! Actually is quite big even though the menu says only 1 oyster. I wouldn't eat too much of this stuff though - very rich.
The whole lot came to almost $50 before tips for 2 people. Was just enough to push me into full. I didn't think it was THAT reasonably priced. For a little more moola, there is better food and atmosphere at a certain competitor that will actually wow you, minus the atrocious wait (cough Ajisai cough). -
Review from Betty L.
1/19/2012
Finally went back to Toshi after all these years. The mere thought of waiting forever to get a table didn't really appeal to me. I only agreed to go there on a date because it was snowing pretty badly on a quiet Tuesday night and my date told me the restaurant wasn't that full.
The restaurant is cozy with simple decore so the focus is really on the food. Thank goodness, Toshi delivered on that. It was fresh, beautifully presented and reasonably priced. Because of these reasons, a lot of of people who lived nearby would come for dinner on a regular basis. Service was efficient and brisk. It was disappointing that they didn't have a better sake list because the "basic one" didn't match the freshness nor the flavours of the food.
Highlights:
1) spicy agedashi tofu - It had the right amount of spiciness. The exterior of the tofus were crispy and the inside was soft and warm. It was swimming inside the sauce broth. Very yummy.
2)oyster motoyaki - Good portion, it came in a little dish rather than inside the oyster shell. There were lots of oysters inside and the sauce wasn't too greasy. Thank goodness the top was slightly broiled so it had a bit of charre flavour to it.
3)dragon roll- Visually it was just beautiful. Good knife skills required to have perfectly ripe avacado slices on top. It had the right balance of filing to rice.
Regulars were raving about the box sushi. To me it was good but nothing exceptional. I like the slice of lemon on top because it was quite refreshig but I didn't like the fact it had way too much rice in it.
I'll definitely come back on a cold wintery night for dinner when the place isn't packed. There are other good well price sushi restaurants in Vancouver I could dine without the long wait. -
Review from Melissa K.
Vancouver, BC
1/11/2012
3.5 stars. The food here is good, though I'm still not too sure what the hype is about. I've been here years ago and had been unsure why people have to come here to line up before 5 just to get a seat...so I came here to do the same just to make sure I wasn't delusional. The service is good, there aren't very many things that you can't get anywhere else on the menu, and the prices aren't particularly cheap -- it's good for value. The food is good, but I wasn't blown away by it; maybe the hype made it less attractive. Miso eggplant was good, but not as good as Tokyo Thyme. Black cod was good, but not as good as Aki. Box sushi was good -- but not a reason to come here. Overall, everything was good and above average. But if I were to go anywhere at 5 to line up just to get a seat, I'd go to Vij's. I'd come to Toshi again but not if we have to line up.
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Review from Trish W.
Vancouver, BC
1/1/2012
I am 100% sure that this is the greatest sushi restaurant in the world. They are open from 5pm to 9pm daily, and there are always lines forming around 4:30 or 4:45. I got here once at 5:15 and wasn't able to eat until almost 6. No fault of the restaurant or the staff, the place was packed and they got through everyone very quickly and efficiently.
The spicy agedashi is the greatest thing in the world. The kampyo roll (gourd skin) is the second greatest thing in the world. The baked eggplant is also delightful. Everything is amazing. And it's not expensive!
I would eat here every day if I could.
I do a little bit wish that they had brown rice, but their white rice is so fresh and soft, it is almost like brown rice. I also wish they were open at lunch time. -
Review from Tara C.
New Westminster, BC
10/25/2011
For years, our friend talked up Toshi. Every time we came into the city, it was all about Toshi.
"Toshi Toshi Toshi Toshi?"
"Toshi Toshi."
"Toshi Toshi!"
So finally, for his birthday, we took him to Toshi. A tiny little restaurant where the sure-footed waitresses dance food to the tables as quickly as possible, we were seated next to a window and served tea immediately.
Having eaten at several Japanese restaurants, including some fantastic ones up in Whistler (mmm... Satchi Sushi) I have to say...
Toshi...Is...Incredible.
Spicy Agedashi tofu? Uh-may-zing. Hotate (Scallop)? Uh-may-zing. Every single perfect bite we ate was perfectly prepared, incredibly fresh, tender and perfect... oh, and reasonably priced. We didn't have the long wait other people did (25 minutes?), but in all honesty, it's worth the wait for me (sorry, Satan!). Fan-freaking-tastic. -
Review from Sarah O.
Vancouver, BC
10/29/2011
Went here just before 6 so that I didn't have to wait for half an hour or so (usual wait time). the place is quaint and definitely has the neighbourhood feel. i had the sashimi salad (which I always try at different sushi restaurants) and a few other rolls. I didn't think it was amazing, but I guess for the price it's a pretty good deal. I still think I get more bang for my buck at ajisai where the sashimi is always fresh and the cornflakes on top of my sashimi salad is like icing on the cake.
sushi is a vicious cycle- the more you eat it, the more you need it. -
Review from Hugs D.
Vancouver, BC
12/30/2011
I fail to see why people consistently wait over an hour to eat here.
The fish is fresh and the sushi is good but no better than I can get at about 12 other sushi places in Vancouver without waiting for an hour. The price isn't exceptional for a sushi place either so I say, unless you have an hour to spare or like waiting for good old sushi just go down the street to the next joint. -
Review from Katie S.
Vancouver, BC
9/30/2011
It saddens me to move my 5 star review down to a 3-star review for a place that was once my favourite in the city.
I excitedly went there again a week or so ago and it was a totally mediocre, if not a little terrible, experience. We waited about 1/2 hour, which wasn't unexpected- it's a part of the Toshi experience after all. Once we got a table, we noticed there were several new types of fish on the menu and decided to splurge and try the Nigiri sushi of them all! There was also a sashimi combo that piqued our interest, but it came with octopus, which I'm allergic to. We asked if it could be substituted for tuna, but the waitress quickly and impolitely said no. She asked the chef after we pressed, but the answer remained the same. Disappointed, but not surprised, we accepted this.
So we started to order the Nigiri sushi, and that's when things really got bad. The FIRST FIVE types of fish we asked for were not available. Not sold out, just not something they had in stock. Literally nothing we wanted from the new, updated menu was in the restaurant. The waitress didn't apologize or offer any solution, and still refused to substitute the sashimi order.
At that point, we left. I don't usually walk out of restaurants, but the service was so bad we couldn't support it.
I'm sure the food is still heavenly, but I don't wait 30 minutes to not be able to order anything I want.
If Toshi shapes up, I'll repost my old, enthusiastic review. -
Review from Johnson C.
Vancouver, BC
7/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Worth the hype? Sorta.
Showed up shortly after 5PM (opening time) and waited about 45 minutes on a Saturday night for a table of four (after the original cycle started clearing out). It's a pretty long wait when you run into people that happened to drive by and see you outside lined up like a chump.
Service is pretty good - each waitress is tending to 2 or 3 tables max and service is fast. Plus points for using middle-aged Japanese ladies - when a place applies Cactus Club hiring practices, I'm always skeptical of their priorities. A few waitresses kept coming by to check on us and to watch us devour down our 'over-order'. Obasan, kudasai! You're watching a master at work.
This place is definitely focused more on quality than quantity - so don't expect portions like you'll find at Samurai/Sushi Town/Sushi Garden.
What's good:
- grilled black cod in miso sauce - must order - juicy and so tender and flaky. I was strongly tempted to order another plate... but didn't want to wait/hold up the line.
- grilled salmon cheek - perfectly cooked and flaky.
- salmon sashimi - I really should have took a picture before I stuffed it down my craw. A unique jeweled pink colour and fresh beyond belief. The hamachi was good as well.
- uni sushi - creamy, rich and fresh - the only criticism is that I wished it was a bit more 'briney'.
- una don - damned good eel and they didn't drench it in BBQ sauce. Good stuff.
- negi toro - the one roll that I liked. Tuna was tasty and had excellent texture.
- the avocado on the house roll - fresh and perfectly ripened
- ika karaage - interesting spicy mayo and golden deep fry - nothing with this.
What's bad:
- they ran out of toro... really? You guys just opened up and you're out? That was a letdown.
- the maki/rolls - all of them. Misshapened, crushed rice and yet somehow loosely rolled? The shit looked like... well... it looked like I rolled it. AVOID AVOID AVOID.
- $0.75 charge per head for tea. I guess that's standard now and the prices are pretty reasonable - but I just hate nickel-and-diming.
As you can judge from my list, all the ingredients are fresh and most of the items are well-prepared (with exception to the rolls). If the meal ended before we received our makis, it would have probably been 5-stars. But the rolls were just sloppy.
And another half-star off for the wait. The quality is good, service is friendly and Toshi's would probably be my go-to mid-range sushi joint if there weren't the crazy lineups. But that's the thing - if I have to wait an hour, I expect mind-blowing food. Factor in opportunity costs (consider how much you and your party make an hour and add it to the bill)... now it's very expensive sushi. Did I just sound like a douchebag there? Well - bite me.
But seriously - I think lineups warp your thinking - you're hungry and you just spent an hour waiting for food. I think your mind tricks you into thinking it's better than it really is.
Don't get me wrong - overall, I like Toshi's. I'll probably swing back for some more take-out black cod, tuna/salmon sashimi and uni sushi. Avoid the rolls. I'm gonna eat my take-out on the trunk of my car - hell, I'll even eat it in front of the lineup.Listed in: East Van Eateries
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Review from Will T.
Vancouver, BC
10/3/2011
Definitely some of the freshest sushi in Vancouver; and it's not ridiculously priced, like Tojo's, for example. It's actually very reasonable and every dish I've had here has been great, from sashimi to tempura. The staff at Toshi know what they're doing.
The service is pretty decent for how busy it gets, and the staff is friendly. Get there before the 5 PM opening if you want to minimize your wait time, it can get hectic in there sometimes...but worth your time.
Highly recommended. -
Review from Vivian L.
8/19/2011
Given the long wait for this place, I totally thought it would be over-hyped. We literally counted how many tables there were, how many people were in front of us, and how much longer it would take while I tried not to look at eaters with sad puppy eyes.
The best thing I had was the sockeye salmon sashimi. We don't get that stuff in LA so it was a real treat. Everything else was good but comparable to good sushi restaurants in LA. -
Review from Justin L.
8/7/2011 11 photos
Excellent sushi for a fraction of what you'd pay elsewhere. I feel bad for the Japanese sushi chefs crowded behind the counter to keep up with the demand, while the women scurry about taking and delivering orders, as well as keeping tabs on the hallowed Waiting List. But everybody's treated the same, and the strict policies are there to maintain the peace. It's all good once you get to order to your heart's content and pig out on some fine sushi.
Prices have gone up here and there. My favorite (SPICY) SCALLOP CONE has been raised to $4.25, and they now charge $0.75 for generic tea. Nevertheless, compared with what you'd pay elsewhere, Toshi still delivers good value and good eats.
As you can tell from the previous reviews, everyone has their favorite items. I quite like the rolls, and I always order the NASU DENGAKU (EGGPLANT), which just melts in your mouth. If you like lemon, the BOX SUSHI (square shaped) is interesting.
I don't think the SOFT SHELL CRAB karaage is good anymore.
Everyone's got their little Toshi routine and strategy -- I won't tell you mine. Hey, if it's gonna be a long wait, take a stroll along Main Street, have a drink or two, then check back. -
Review from gretchen c.
Vancouver, BC
9/14/2011
Toshi Sushi is located on Main street and there is usually a line-up that goes out the door. The place itself is miniscule and groups larger than six people are not recommended. Although Toshis (an abbreviated nickname given by its regulars) is only open for dinner (starting at 5 pm), and it is known for its long lines, this does not stop its increasing popularity and business. The sushi here is of such a first-rate quality that people keep coming back even though they know how long they'll have to wait for a table and might be forced to share a cramped table with complete strangers.
It is the perfect balance between quality and price: the food has the quality of a high end place, but for regular and reasonable sushi prices. The fish is incredibly fresh and the sushi rolls have a little kick, as they come with a little bit of wasabi already in them. The Negi Hama (a roll with green onions and yellowtail) is one of the best rolls on the menu, as it is like an upgrade of the Negi Toro. The nigiris are amazing: some solid suggestions from the selection are the Hamachi (yellowtail tuna), the Maguro (albacore tuna), the salmon nigiri (which is made with wild sockeye salmon), and the Saba (mackerel). Again, the freshness of the fish is just pristine and the food is of a first-class quality.
Worth the wait? Absolutely. -
Review from Jenfi L.
Vancouver, BC
12/28/2011
I'm not quite sure what all the rave is all about on this place. Let's just say the wait isn't worth it, trust me. The food was okay, nothing special and the service was just okay. If you want an okay experience with a long wait, then your best bet is here.
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Review from Thao D.
8/22/2011
Wowie! This place is delicious!
This place has basic, straight-forward, Japanese fare done right. The sushi is fresh, delicious, generous and affordable. I usually don't like snapper nigiri, but this restaurant changed my mind! I asked for uni, and the waitress said they didn't have any, but also took the time to explain that the uni was not good and that's why they didn't have any.
I have to say though, despite the sushi being excellent, the star of the meal for me was the miso black cod. So good, it gives me reason to make the drive up to Canada.
The place is small and they don't take reservations, so it's a waiting game-- but once you're in the service is friendly and prompt, without making you feel rushed. Will definitely be back! -
Review from Otto M.
Vancouver, BC
8/16/2011
Hands down the best sushi in Vancouver!
Just be prepared to wait! I just go by my self for the sushi bar or head there at 4:30 with friends.
Have the Grilled Eggplant with Miso, the House Roll and for sure the Ika Karaage!
My only critique is that they no longer do their own tamago :( -
Review from Rachael T.
Toronto, ON
2/3/2011 ROTD 6/9/2011
"Toshi has the best sushi"
"Their Sushi is so good"
"Best in Vancouver"
"If you don't get there when it opens, you'll be waiting a long time.."
yup.. those are some of the things I've heard.. and I'm not sure why but I had wanted a "cheap" dinner and somehow decided to eat at Toshi's. It was at prime time and I knew what I was getting into but decided to wait it out anyway.
I got ancy, impatient, hungry, weary and really wanted to leave, but the bf told me that since we had waited over half an hour already, we might as well stick it out. Meanwhile, I'm looking at the items I want to get and this "cheap" meal was becoming to become more like a luxury.
You think that at a sushi restaurant that tables would turn around quickly... well not when there are 6 tables in front of you. Not only that, people write their names down and come back. Smart thinking.
... so after a very long 45+ minutes of waiting, I have to admit that my hunger was starting to fade. We sat down, ordered the special rolls, BLACK COD, sashimi, some soup and watched as the chefs intricately prepared each dish for the rest of the diners. I was very impressed at how detailed oriented they were. Every extra unnecessary thread was picked off and rolled to perfection.
Our sashimi did not disappoint as the bf said that it was the best tuna he has ever tasted. Everything was fresh and a beautiful colour. The rolls that contained lemon added a bit of tartness which made it taste even better. The black cod was soo buttery, so delicious. I wish I could cook and eat it every night.
At the end - this $50 dollar meal was worth every penny. Yes the wait was grueling, and no I do not want to wait in the little hallway. So it's come early to get take out! -
Review from Tara E.
3/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Two people from different circles both recommended Toshi to me for my most recent trip to Vancouver. That alone made it worthwhile for me to check it out.
The line up was long, and I hate waiting in lines, but it was worth it for nights where the company is good enough that you can hang out with them in line for an hour.
The fish was fresh, and delicious, and really, considering how much our table of four ordered, VERY reasonably priced. The sashimi was fresh and smooth, and the spider rolls (huge) were a delight. I will go back.Listed in: Vancouver
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Review from Karen L.
Richmond, BC
4/23/2011
This place is SO TINY! There are ALWAYS line ups, starting at 4:45pm, and the restaurant opens at 5pm! I've only gone to this place once as I have no patience to line up and wait behind 10 tables of people.
The food is above average. Salmon sashimi and chopped scallop is what I usually order and they were satisfying. Servers and chefs were friendly and welcoming. The environment was very crowded and the tables were very close to one another. You could definitely eavesdrop on other people's conversations!
If it wasn't for the loooooooong line ups, I would come here more often. -
Review from Ly H.
1/28/2011
What amazingly fresh and lovely food. The eggplant grilled with miso and sake was lick the plate good. The rolls are creative but not too over the top, for example the chicken katsu roll.
As other reviewers have mentioned, there's always a line up. Go prepared to wait. Not a good idea for groups with more than 4 people since the space is so small. Also they won't give you a table until everyone in your party is present. -
Review from Jessica O.
Vancouver, BC
4/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
I must add my voice to the cacophony of rave reviews. It is, simply put, really good authentic sushi. They even use the correct "Zushi" spelling in appropriate places on the menu!
We lucked out and only had to wait 15 minutes - it was worth it and I would gladly wait longer for the freshness of the fish, light batter on the tempura and quick and efficient service.
We stuck to the basics, as we always do with a new (to us) place. The negitoro was my favourite roll - absolutely bursting with flavour with none of the unpleasant metallic tang of cheap tuna. The salmon sashimi was AMAZING - a deep jewel pink and served in small delicate slices. Tempura prawns and veg were light and flaky - asparagus! My only dislike of the night was the amount of mayo in the avocado roll - a bit too creamy and squishy for me.
What kept me away from Toshi for so many years!?
I was expecting higher prices, but really this is extremely affordable at 3 or 4 bucks a roll, and half orders of sashimi (4 pieces) for 6 bucks. I can honestly say that after this experience I will never want to head to Sushiyama again. I would rather pay a dollar or two more and wait a few minutes longer and get this amazing, authentic fresh fish. -
Review from Rod M.
Montréal, QC
4/18/2011
Wow! Toshi's was recommended to us and we ate there when we were last in Vancouver. This is definitely the best Japanese restaurant that I've ever eaten at. Everything we ate was terrific, but the star of the evening was the Blackened Cod. It was like butter melting in your mouth.
Being from Montreal I was also amazed at how reasonable the prices where, a meal like this in Montreal would have cost at least twice as much.
If you're visiting Vancouver Toshi's is a must. Take note that they do not take reservations and there will likely be a line, it is totally worth the wait. -
Review from Amy T.
5/4/2011
The only restaurant I would line up for is Toshi.
Sometimes it's a 1/2 hour wait, sometimes it is 1 hour. Is it worth the wait? Hell yes!
Prices are very reasonably priced considering how fresh their food is. Everything on their menu is delicious, but I always end up ordering these 3 items. Negitoro roll, grilled eggplant and their black cod.
Service is always great and I never had any problems.
If you wanted a quiet meal with a lot of space, you won't find it Toshi... however, you will not regret eating at here. -
Review from T M.
Vancouver, BC
6/23/2011
If you are looking for an authentic and quality Japanese restaurant, this is it! I lived in Japan previously and I had been unable to find BBQ eggplant anywhere else is Vancouver. It is amazing!
The prices are very reasonable, especially when you factor in quality.
Yes, there is a line up, but if you can time for the seating times, it's not so bad. I have never waited more than 30 minutes.
I had the pleasure of meeting Toshi and he is passionate about food and presentation, even if just a tiny gathering.
Yuka-chan is the BEST server and you should ask for her by name :) -
Review from Q T.
Sherwood Park, AB
9/5/2011
The tuna tataki changed my life.
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Review from P G.
Richmond, BC
11/5/2010 1 Check-in Here
Toshi is my favourite sushi spot in Vancouver and has been for the last 5 years. If you are looking for value, nobody can beat Mr. Toshi Saito! However there are a couple things to keep in mind: 1. If you dislike waiting, show up at 4:45 or 8:30. 2. Once you are finished eating please pay up and get out! Nothing annoys me more than patrons who sit around chatting for 20 minutes while the line up is halfway around the block! Have some common sense people! 3. If you absolutely hate waiting in line, come at 9:30 but to be polite to the hard working staff, don't linger past the last customer.
So to my fellow regulars, the BOX SUSHI is now on the menu, do you know the new secret roll? muhahahah! -
Review from Chelsea S.
Vancouver, BC
11/30/2010
Three and a half stars.
The food was good, the service was amazingly fast (I guess to accomodate high turnover) and we made it in for the first seating after arriving 20 minutes before it opened.
But I wouldn't wait in line to go here again.
Yes, the fish was fresh, but is that really the be-all-end-all gold standard of good sushi? Shouldn't that be more like a minimum requirement? Maybe we just picked the wrong things on the menu, but there was nothing inventive or exceptional about what we had, or the presentation. I shouldn't say that - I had a chopped scallop nigiri that was really cool; big creamy pieces of scallop and just a little smear of mayo on top...but everything else was just what you would expect from a slightly better than average sushi place.
The wall beside our table was splattered with food, it was hard to relax with the next-in-liners staring everyone down, and the pricing was in-line with with the value (which is to say, reasonable).
Zipang still gets my vote. -
Review from Emmo S.
Vancouver, BC
3/17/2011
Meh.
Always popular, on any night expect to wait at least a few minutes to get in here...or at worst an hour.
The sushi is good, but there are lots of places to get good sushi without having to wait an hour. Service was prompt, adequate but a little rushed...we weren't allowed any more soja sauce because they were closing then... what?!!!
Prices are okay, a bit more than some others. If you want other main street sushi options consider Zipang and Dream which in my opinion are equally as good. -
Review from Zee K.
Vancouver, BC
1/10/2011
I waited a long time before trying Toshi, almost entirely because I hate waiting in lines.
The day we decided to go, I brought my brother with me, who is one of those people who can find fault with anything. He is also generally very picky about Japanese restaurants, having lived in Japan. We showed up at 430 and thankfully just managed to get seated in the first wave, as I couldn't have listened to my brother complain about waiting in line any longer.
The second our miso soups showed up, all grumbling stopped. That was the first confirmation that yes, this restaurant is indeed something special. Fresh fish, good portions, *incredible* baked eggplant. They also have soy wrappers instead of seaweed for some of their rolls. Super-delicious.
So, if you are looking for the best sushi in Vancouver that wont cost you a limb, go to Toshi, but be prepared for the wait.
Oh, and you can always order takeout and forego the line entirely. -
Review from Will K.
Vancouver, BC
10/25/2010 2 photos
Gochizousama deshita! That is a Japanese way to say "I am satisfied, good food".
First thing, be warned. Friday and Saturday afternoons you will have to wait for a seat unless you wait at the entrance before they open (at 5 PM, closed Sundays). I had to wait about 37 mins to have a seat! Try to think positively: waiting makes your appetite grow and the hungrier one becomes, the meal will become tastier. Though remember to write your name on the list!
Food Veredict: Exquisitely delightful sushi and one of the best I had in Vancouver as of now.
I am careful with the bias that Japanese owned sushi joints are better than others, but the fact is, that 95% of the non-Japanese owned sushi joints will overlook this detail: a clean sushi counter. You will notice that the sushi counter is squeaky clean and well organized, even though it is busy with orders.
Sushi pieces are priced about 1.5 CAD for the usuals, and around 2-3.5 for the exotic ones. I did not have to wait long for my nigiri sushi to arrive. The tamago (egg) was done correctly: fluffy, tasty, and a delight to both my eyes and palate. I could not leave without ordering the red ruby of the sea: red tuna (true maguro). That was one handsome piece of nigiri without any trace of frozenness.
Best part is that one can order an awesome 10 piece nigiri treat for 13 CAD! This compilation can make many upscale joint entrées be ashamed of themselves.
The only "but" I could find (aside from the waiting line) was that the rice (sushi meshi) was a little warm and lacked some of the zing and freshness of rice vinegar.
Staff is very friendly and accommodating; among them is the wife of the sushi chef (itamae) and owner, Toshi. As I was able to have a short chat with her, she told me they have been around for about 7 years. I hope they can stay for much longer.
If you have time, patience, and a small party (max four), this place is highly recommended. Mind that Toshi may set your sushi standards to a higher bar and as a result one might turn pickier towards this delightable cuisine. -
Review from Karey S.
Vancouver, BC
11/5/2010
This is my favorite sushi spot in Vancouver. Honestly, this place has completely ruined me for other sushi places and unless I am going to Toshi, I don't even bother considering sushi when someone suggests eating out.
OK, fine there are like 1 or 2 other places that I will tolerate but, honestly, this is my number 1 choice in Vancouver!
I always leave satisfied after noshing on fantastically fresh sashimi, box sushi (not on the menu but a total MUST), and their house roll. And my wallet complains much less than other places. I love bringing people here, they are always impressed with the choice and the economy of the place. I have created a number of Toshi followers!
The only downside is the ultra-long lineup every day of the week. Unless you go right when it opens you are looking at a wait of at least 30 minutes. Yes, I still gave this place 5 stars...because the wait is worth it. -
Review from vanessa G.
Vancouver, BC
Updated - 1/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
Finally tried the Nasu Dengdaku (grilled eggplant) and had to update that it tasted freaking amazing. It might as well be dessert.
They now charge .75 cents for green tea and are really cheap with the ginger.. but i guess it's better to give less then waste it?Listed in: Best Veggie Eats!, The impress a girl locales, Main St. Bites, A vegetarian's guide to eating…
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5/16/2010
My favorite place in Vancouver for sushi. As a vegetarian sushi eater there are many options, and a… Read more »
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Review from Sharas R.
9/8/2011
Had tea, misso soup, salmon sashimi, tuna belly toro nigiri, spicy scallop, and box sushi roll. Loved all of them.
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Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
7/23/2010 ROTD 1/11/2011
Don't worry- it IS worth waiting in line for.
In a city where it is DAMN difficult to find a Japanese owned/run sushi joint, this place is spot on.
After I waited a little over half an hour (first one on the wait list) to take my seat at the sushi bar, I could instantly tell the sashimi was fresh and the sushi quality.
I was amused by the couple beside me who lamented about the high prices.
Let me tell you- we are SPOILED in Vancouver to have SO much fresh fish that we have become used to paying low prices for some chopped up raw salmon.
THIS place is NOT one of those cookie cutter, chinese-owned, cheap sashimi places. Expect to pay a couple more, WELL SPENT, dollars on proper sushi chefs.
The overall resto is very good value for your money. Definitely worth it for people who can tell the difference between 2/3 star chain-Vancouver-sashimi and proper sushi-chef creations.
I'd say this is all round best sushi restaurant that is right in between the a-ok chinese owned and the higher end izakayas.
Tips
-they do do takeout (heh..you said do do)
-arrive early, put your name on the list and take a walk. a long one
-once you are seated feel free to take your time and enjoy. really.
-don't get too excited and feel the need to order everything. you can always come back.
-please don't come here with more than a group of 4. you simply WONT fit. -
Review from Nam N.
Vancouver, BC
1/14/2011
My favorite sushi place in the whole world! This place is authentic, delicious and better yet, well-priced! These chefs can kick most high-end sushi chefs out the door.
There's ALWAYS a lineup at dinnertime, but everyone waits! That's got to tell you something. Its not very big inside but the crowd moves at a decent pace. It usually takes about 45 minutes for a group of 3-4. Luckily its on Main St. so there's plenty of pubs or cafes to hop into to wait.
I love their Box Roll, its not on the menu, Ken T. ordered it and yes it was friggin awesome. Box Roll is apparently harder to make then regular sushi rolls. But these sushi chefs mastered it. Every dish was a delight, especially their succulent eggplant.
Definitely a place to go and come back given the chance.
PRICE: Very fair, compared to a regular sushi joint except the food is world-class.
SERVICE: Excellent, very friendly and on excellent time considering how busy they get. Many places fall apart when its too busy.
SUGGEST: Go. Here. Now. Sure lineup sucks but it'll be worth it, guaranteed. Eggplant yummy. Box Roll, just ask for it. And everything on the menu is top notch so don't worry about screwing up. Your only mistake would be ordering too much. -
Review from Ramon V.
1/11/2011
My only issue with Toshi is that it's not open just for me. All the time.
I am a huge fan of this little restaurant. Fresh, amazing quality, and affordable Japanese food from a seasoned family who know what they're doing and how to do it well. Sashimi, nigiri, bento boxes, teriyaki, noodles, appetizers and dinner entrees all done slightly differently and better than the standard Japanese restaurants which most of us are familiar with.
Toshi is hidden. Seating is tight. The menu is well-prepared for a variety of tastes, and has other options which change regularly. The dinner hours are 5:00PM to 9:30PM. You'll notice the crowd of people outside before you see the restaurant. Get there early or be prepared to wait in line. I've arrived before opening time, only to find others already there. And one more thing. Don't spread the word. I'd like to keep Toshi to myself. Please and thank you. -
Review from Alan C.
3/28/2011
I didnt have a chance to eat at many sushi places while i was in vancouver but this place had by some of the freshest fish ive had anywhere on the west coast.
i went here from a recommendation from a friend who was a local to the area.
A couple bus rides from where i was staying (seemed to be in a residential district) and i was there.
The place was small so the wait was somewhat long but it was well worth it. i got a mix of sashimi and it was awesome! size was great the price was great! (for the quality and amount)
definitely a must go. -
Review from Katie F.
7/20/2010
I wish they would take reservations!
I don't do lines well but we had friends in town and I wanted to take this off my places to try list... don't come here hungry! We arrived around 7:30 and got in around 8:30... so make sure you like the people you're eating with because you'll be talking for awhile!
Great menu - wide selection of both hot and cold items. Prices are reasonable - sushi pieces are all under $2.30-ish. Service is fast once you've got a table.
What I loved - all the sushi! I love Aji and theirs is great. Nice job with the wild salmon and unagi. Had a sampling of their rolls - their Philadelphia is one of the best I've had - YUMMY! Negitoro and mango and smoked salmon rolls were good and similar in quality to nice sushi places. The black cod in miso was totally buttery-melt-in-your-mouth good!
If you're good at waiting, the food quality and price is 5 stars.
Overall 4 stars for me! -
Review from Ken T.
Vancouver, BC
6/18/2010
There is always a long line of people waiting to get seated at Toshi's and I hesitate to add another glowing review to the restaurant for selfish reasons but for my first Yelp review, I decided to single out the best Japanese restaurant in Vancouver.
The service at Toshi's is very good. The servers are quick and competent. The sushi chefs are friendly, informative and observant to the needs of the customers. The kitchen is also very efficient because you never have to wait a long time for anything.
This is one of those rare restaurants where both the raw food and the cooked food are fantastic.
My favorite item from the sushi bar is the Box Roll, which consists of sushi rice packed into a box with a taste of avocado and spicy sauce then a combination of salmon, prawns, scallops and a razor thin slice of lemon are placed on top and pressed into a box shape.
My favorite cooked item is the Nasu Dengaku, which is eggplant coated in miso and mirin (my uneducated guess) then wrapped in foil and grilled. This results in a dish that is both salty and sweet, with the inside of the eggplant being warm and soft while the skin provides just the right amount of crispy texture to make this a perfect dish.
Everything on the menu is also very reasonably priced, including their beer and sake.
The wait times are long but they are worth it. Don't come here with a large group because the wait time will be even longer and they may not be able to accommodate your party plus I don't want to have to wait any longer than I already do.
