Kazu Japanese Restaurant is located in the Burnaby Heights neighbourhood and worth the trek across town for its sushi. The restaurant is Japanese owned and operated with chef Kazuhisa Tanimoto, an icon of Japanese food in the city, at its helm.

The menu features typical fare you would find at a Japanese restaurant: a variety of traditional rolls, rice bowls, noodles and appetizers like gyoza and tempura. What you won’t see are fusion rolls loaded with mayonnaise and sauces. What makes Kazu stand out among all the Japanese restaurants in Vancouver is its flavours and traditional preparations. Kazu offers simple sushi done right with clean flavours letting the fish shine through. Not to mention the wasabi which comes fresh.

If you’re a fan of sashimi, then the chirashi don is a favourite of mine. Otherwise, their set bento boxes offer great value for money. I’m a fan of their tempura as well. The batter light, but crispy and not oily.

The restaurant is only open for dinner during the weekdays and all day on weekends. They often can be busy with a line out the door, but I’ve been able to nab a table or spot at the bar easily as well.