Sushi Kuni — Restaurant in North Cowichan

Really disappointed in the food. I had the spicy salmon roll, 8 pc for $9.99. It was really just a salmon maki roll with spicy mayo over it, way overpriced for what is included. Usually a spicy salmon roll would include things like some cucumbers/avocado/imitation crab or tempura in the filling, but this was quite plain. Also the salmon was very pale and dull in color, I almost thought they gave me a white flesh fish roll by mistake.

Service was nothing remarkable. The order taker offered typical service as one would expect. The chef was wearing just a thin white tank top while making the food, not what I would expect a restaurant chef to wear per se, perhaps he is going for the homey feel which I guess is one way to go about it. There is no dine-in service, but there are tables to sit at while waiting for the food.

I won’t rate stars for the atmosphere since there’s no dine in so it’s not relevant. I just noticed that the design of the place is kind of like an open kitchen where there’s a window that looks into the cooking area so technically it’s designed so you can see what the chef is doing. This is common in some Japanese restaurants. However, the “window” is blocked by a board on top of which is lined with tons of different stuff that it blocks your view and you can’t actually see the kitchen. It makes the already small area feel quite cramped and a bit suffocating. Would consider changing the arrangements if they ever offer dine in again.

Overall I would say at least the spicy salmon roll (and probably the spicy tuna roll by that logic) is overpriced for what it offers, would...

We’ve been here a few times over the years both pre and post Covid… we enjoy trying out different sushi hotspots in our travels.

We do always prefer eating in- which is an option here they just don’t run a table service. We did sit in this time- though we ordered takeout.

That said with no music or really anything other than a couple tables and chairs there isn’t much reason to stay.

The folks are quiet but very polite and no complaints about service at all… it’s a quiet tiny place to get a good quality sushi- wherever you want to enjoy it.

We did notice a lot of rice was used in the rolls we ordered (spicy salmon / tuna and a special spicy roll) which may just be their “way” and some people may prefer that- neither of us were too excited about it but we were able to strip some of it away so it was to our liking… only reason I mention it is we’ve never had to strip excess off- so might have been an one off.

Certainly not anything we were going to send back- overall it was just fine but a bit too much for our liking.

Thanks for...

A Hidden Gem in Chemainus!

We had a wonderful meal at this small takeout sushi place with our family of three. From sushi to tempura, and even Korean style fried chicken, everything was absolutely delicious. Even though it's a takeout-only spot, the owner served us water, which was a nice touch and truly appreciated.

This place may be small and simple, but the care and freshness of the fish were impressive. While we were eating, the phone kept ringing with orders, and the place seemed to be quite popular in the neighborhood. I was hesitant to visit after reading some negative reviews, but after experiencing the friendly service and amazing food, I was completely taken aback. It was such a pleasant surprise!

The tempura, in particular, was outstanding—truly the best I’ve had in a long time. The freshness and quality of the food made it a perfect meal, and if I’m ever back in Chemainus, I will definitely return.

Highly recommend this spot for anyone who loves fresh and tasty...