Sushi in the city: Vancouver's sushi scene

By Christopher Poon [Media Editor]

This week, we’ve decided to dedicate an entire page to our favourite food, sushi. Not only does sushi come in a variety of types and flavours (anything from elaborate dragon rolls to plain ol’ cucumber rolls), but most rolls are surprisingly good for you.

Here on the West Coast, sushi has seen a huge increase in popularity over the past decade, as evidenced by the 200-plus sushi restaurants in Vancouver alone. The city has gained an international reputation for its sushi scene, which translates into good times for all of you sushi lovers.

For those of you who are still apprehensive about taking the plunge, don’t fear, not all sushi types contain some sort of raw seafood. Fusion rolls have proven hugely successful here in Vancouver. Things like California roll (cooked crab meat, avocado, mayo, cucumbers), and dynamite roll (basically a california roll with prawn tempura in it) are some of the most in-demand rolls at any sushi joint. They are also good for building up your confidence before taking the plunge and going for the raw stuff.

Once you’re ready to try the raw stuff, tuna and salmon are the staples, while things like squid and urchin are a more acquired taste. The raw stuff is generally quite low in fat (as opposed to the california and dynamite rolls mentioned above), and high in protein, vitamins and carbohydrates.

So go on, don’t be afraid. Get out there and try some sushi if you haven’t already done so.