A true Japanese izakaya is more like a casual pub but over time izakayas have evolved to represent fun casual dining. A loose translation of ShuRaku would be ‘enjoyment of sake’. At ShuRaku we have elevated the casual style and like to call our style sushi-izakaya; casual, energetic and fun from Lunch straight through to Late Night Dining . . . Vancouver’s only Sake Bar and Japanese Bistro!
Our atmosphere is stylish, hip and friendly. Warm colours, dark wood, almost 40 feet of hand-made illuminated Japanese rice paper and a bar area that features a live-edge maple wood bar, a wall inspired by Japanese architectural art, reclaimed fir and handmade copper wall scones await you. The lighting is intimate and the seating is flexible to accommodate large or small groups.
We are centrally located in the heart of downtown Vancouver and all along Granville Street you'll find shopping, theatres and nightclubs. If you are a sports enthusiast; General Motors Place (the Canucks and other live entertainment) and B.C. Place (the B.C. Lions) are within walking distance.
At ShuRaku, our kitchen concept is open. Counter seating is available both at the kitchen and the bar so pull up a seat and enjoy the show!
ShuRaku quietly opened during the summer of 2008 and we have been extremely happy with the reaction to our restaurant. We are already known for outstanding cuisine and sake, creative cocktails, warm and inviting décor and attentive service.
Long before ShuRaku had a name we certainly knew what we wanted ShuRaku to be. Our intention was to create a casual and fun restaurant but at the same time, elevate casual Japanese izakaya-style to new heights. We wanted to build a stylish and hip restaurant, serve fantastic food and to provide friendly, attentive and helpful service.
To achieve refined casual we focused on three elements. Find the right chef, build a beautiful restaurant and hire amazing staff.
The interior and exterior of the restaurant was influenced by classic Japanese restaurant design. Long lines, warm colours, muted light and natural materials were combined to create an intimate and relaxed environment. What makes ShuRaku unique is the inclusion of an illuminated handmade Japanese paper wall and hand-crafted architectural art in the bar area. We are sure that you will agree; ShuRaku is beautiful. Our Executive Chef Masahiro has excelled in elevating the izakaya-style. Omori has managed to keep his menu affordable, fun, exciting and perfect for sharing with friends and colleagues. Finally, we have to mention our all-star service staff. We have developed a well-deserved reputation for friendly, warm and attentive service.
A brief history and a great start to what we hope to be long success story in Vancouver!
Vancouver has become home to numerous celebrated Japanese Chefs. The lifestyle, availability of exquisite raw materials and the natural beauty of Vancouver is an irresistible attraction to some of Japan’s most promising young professionals dedicated to their craft. Our Executive Chef, Masahiro Omori is one of those gifted chefs and we know you will agree.
Masahiro Omori was born in Chiba Prefecture and was raised just steps away from the surf at Kujukuri-hama; Japan’s longest beach! When he wasn’t surfing, he explored a growing culinary interest by working at his Uncle’s fish market and learning the intricacies of the fish trade from his Grandmother (a career fish trader). These experiences convinced him to pursue a career in hospitality. Omori attended the celebrated Musashino Culinary School and honed his skills at various traditional restaurants in Akasaka, Tokyo before making his move to Vancouver.
In Vancouver, Omori delights in the availability of extremely fresh ingredients and works his magic both on the set menu and through daily features.