Vancouver Students Are Living the Gourmet Dream – And I’m Jealous!

Every time I visit Vancouver, I’m reminded why its international students have it so good—my Toronto friend came for two days and their first reaction was: “Why does Vancouver have ALL the best food?!” Lucky for me, I get to study (and eat) here. 😎 🍱 Hidden Gem Alert: Koto Izakaya 📍 8171 Alexandra Rd, Richmond 🕒 Hours: Closed Mon/Tue | Wed-Sun 5:30PM-12:30AM (Fri/Sat until 1:30AM) From the outside, it looks unassuming, but step inside and—BAM—you’re transported to a cozy Tokyo alleyway (check the murals in Fig 4-5!). Sunlight streaming in? Pure magic. 🔥 What We Devoured 🍣 SUSHI 🔹 Aburi Sushi Set Fatty, melt-in-your-mouth slices over warm rice—six flavors in one plate. No regrets. 🍜 NOODLES 🔹 Mentaiko Udon Chewy noodles coated in sweet-salty cod roe sauce—umami bomb! 🍢 GRILLED SKEWERS 🔹 Yakitori Combo Chicken meatballs, bacon-wrapped quail, crispy chicken skin… all juicy, all huge, all under $15. 🐟 SASHIMI 🔹 UNI (Sea Urchin) “Mom, I ate the best uni of my life!” Creamy, zero bitterness, just ocean sweetness. 🔹 Sashimi Platter (Thursday/Sunday ONLY) 🟢 15pcs – 29 (normally 89!) 🟢 21pcs – $49 (HALF PRICE!!) Run. 🍳 EXTRAS 🔹 Chawanmushi (Steamed Egg) Silky, photogenic, and so comforting. 🔹 Crispy Shrimp Better than tempura—crunchy shell, juicy inside. 💡 Pro Tips ✔ Bravo Rewards members get perks—ask the staff! ✔ Thursday/Sunday = Sashimi Discount Day (don’t miss it!). #VancouverEats #JapaneseFood #RichmondBC #HiddenGems #SushiLover