Izakayas are Japanese pubs that serve tapas-style small plates designed for sharing, and they've sprouted up all over Vancouver. Some of the best are this sleek pair of pubs popular with festive groups of twenty- and thirtysomethings. Try the mackerel (cooked table-side—with a blowtorch), udon noodles coated with briny cod roe, or the Korean-style stone bowl filled with rice, pork, and vegetables. Sake or Japanese beer are the drinks of choice. If you're dining alone, sit at the counter facing the open kitchen to watch the action. The Robson branch is located city center; the Kitsilano branch is one block from Kits Beach.
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