Marugame Udon Is Opening in Downtown Vancouver on February 24

Often if a restaurant is coming to Canada for the first time, they go to the “world leader of entertainment and culture” (bit full of itself, don’t you think?) “best-city-ever” (emphasis on the quotations) Toronto, but we’re happy to gloat that this isn’t one of those times. After garnering global acclaim in 263 overseas location, Marugame Udon is settling in its first-ever Canadian location in downtown Vancouver. Yeah, we’re coming for you, TO.

The Japanese restaurant known for its Sanuki-style udon noodles, tempura and rice bowls is set to open on 589 Beatty Street on February 24, and to make us feel extra special, they’re offering a limited-time complimentary serving of tempura for every bowl ordered on opening day. As for the food, you’ll find handmade udon noodles in Kake Udon (a clear kake dashi broth with green onion and tempura flakes), Nikutama (a chewy noodle with traditional Japanese curry and sweet beef) and Kitsune, which is udon in dashi and sweet fried tofu. Otherwise, there’s a selection of rice bowls including Chicken Katsu Curry Don, with crispy chicken katsu and Japanese curry sauce, and an assortment of tempura options.

The building has a green-hedge hairdo and large glass windows encasing a cozy interior with red and wood-paneled walls, colourful tile flooring and an open, theatre-style kitchen where you can watch the chefs handmake every noodle. Across the wall are graphics that tell the history of udon, as well as fabric banners with Japanese-inspired drawings that add to its classy yet homemade feel. The restaurant seats up to 80 people, so bring your friends, and your friends of friends and maybe some Torontonians too so they don’t feel so left out.

The location is conveniently placed next to public transit and major venues such as BC Place, Queen Elizabeth Theatre and Rogers Arena, making it a great spot to head to after enjoying Vancouver’s vibrant arts and cultural events. While they’re looking to expand further into Canada, for at least a little while, we can be the city that won.

Marugame Udon

589 Beatty Street, Vancouver, B.C.
Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.