Best Casual Japanese 2010

Ebullient service that never loses sight of the details—“The rice served under their ebi tempura is absolutely perfect,” said one judge—helped Kingyo score Gold. Silver to Dan Sushi for “pristine sushi, ethereal tempura, and a comprehensive sake program.” At ShuRaku Sake Bar and Bistro (Bronze) executive chef Mashiro Omori’s menu overdelivers on casual izakaya fare. “Sashimi is impeccably trimmed and meltingly fresh, and—pleasant surprise—they offer perhaps the best BBQ you’ll ever eat.” Our judges Honourably Mentioned the Robson location of Guu for its late-night small plates and the Drive’s Lime for its decadent, well-priced four-course lobster dinner.