Get ready to slurp some serious noodles, and dig into some fun side dishes, as a local ramen restaurant prepares to expand with the addition of a massive new flagship location in downtown Vancouver.
Zubu, which came onto the scene in 2020 with its four-location mini-empire, is moving in at 869 Hornby St, the former home of the city's "Theatre District" outpost of mega chain Boston Pizza. The BP closed up shop there in the summer of 2021, and now comes word Zubu is transforming the space from its previous life as an outpost of the familiar casual family-and sports-focused brand.
For its fifth location, Zubu plans to set up a 100-seat restaurant, complete with what a rep for the business describes as a "heated cozy patio."
What's on the menu at Zubu?
Zubu's menu is built on a seasonal and local approach, rooted in Japanese tradition. Most of what's on the menu at Zubu is made in-house, using local ingredients and suppliers as much as possible.
That means a selection of ramen with various broths and noodle types, as well as a mix of modern and more traditional Japanese side dishes and mains. Zubu always ensures each of its locations brings something special to the table, so you can expect a location-exclusive menu as well in downtown Vancouver.
Zubu staked its claim in Metro Vancouver by taking over a trio of existing ramen shops in 2020 in Kerrisdale, Olympic Village, and Burnaby's Metrotown. The OV location is a take-out and delivery-focused outpost called "Food Hall by Zubu," with a tight menu designed for quick meals. In the summer of 2020, Zubu opened up its fourth location - the first build-out space - in West Vancouver at Park Royal.
Plans right now are to welcome ramen and Japanese food fans to the new Zubu on Hornby Street in January 2023.
