Shiru Bay Chopstick Cafe (web site, address: 1193 Hamilton Street, phone: 604-408-9315) is a fun, upscale Japanese tapas restaurant located in Yaletown. Dishes are creatively and aesthetically presented and the menu is a romp through Asian-European fusion, with definite French influences. For $35 per person you can experience the Chef’s Tasting Menu which includes an impressive sampling of their menu (some of which is pictured below).

Sashimi

Pork cutlet

Japanese Omelette

Ebi-mayo prawns

Mussels

Sushi

Ebisu on Robson (827 Bute Street, Vancouver, phone 604-689-8266) serves Japanese tapas and Asian-western fusion food, appealing to the younger, hip Asian crowd as well as food enthusiasts seeking a taste above the ordinary. Recently taking over from “Hooters” in this spacious 2nd floor room overlooking Robson street, Ebisu has a varied menu that ranges from delectable sushi concoctions such as the “Crunch ‘n Munch” roll ($12.97, pictured below) to Rack of Lamb and even pumpkin soup and fish tacos. The Oyster Blowout ($12.78, pictured below) has got to be my favorite item. It’s a huge platter of 12 fresh raw oysters served with a variety of sauces and toppings. We ordered some more inspired Japanese items, such as the Ika Meshi (stuffed squid rolls, pictured below, $11.11), the Deluxe Tempura ($14.77, pictured below), and the Sashimi Salad ($9.57, pictured below).

Crunch ‘n Munch Roll

Ika Meshi (Squid roll sushi)

Oyster Blowout (fresh raw oysters)

Sashimi Salad

Deluxe Tempura

Guu Japanese Bar (web site, 838 Thurlow Street, near Robson, Vancouver, phone 604-685-8817) serves creative Japanese tapas / Tokyo pub food in a fun atmosphere. Dishes range from $5 to $10 and you’ll want to order lots! Pictured below (in order from top) are the Grilled Squid legs w/Spicy mayonaise ($4.60), Cold Spicy Chicken special, Pork special, and BBQ Eel & Mushroom Rice Gratin ($7.80). This restaurant is also known as “Guu with Garlic”.