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'We will miss all of you!': Vancouver Japanese restaurant closes after nearly 20 years

"Vancouver's original Japanese restaurant lounge," has closed its doors permanently.
Lindsay William-Ross
Lindsay William-Ross

This weekend, the owners closed the doors for good at Ebisu on Robson, after nearly 20 years of operation at the location.

Ebisu, which launched at 827 Bute St in 2006, was initially part of the Kamei Royale group of Vancouver restaurants. However, just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic had Vancouver in its grasp, the ink dried on a sale deal for Ebisu on Robson, and the restaurant splintered from the Kamei Group, leaving an Ebisu in Richmond and one on Broadway. 

While Ebisu on Broadway relaunched as Kamei a couple of years ago, Ebisu in Richmond shuttered earlier this year.

In the West End, the most recent owners of Ebisu on Robson - self-described as "Vancouver's original Japanese restaurant lounge," announced the business closure in a notice posted online: "After many amazing years serving the local community, we would like to inform you that Ebisu on Robson will be closed down after Saturday, September 14, 2024."

The announcement continues: "We would like to thank you all for your past business and support for the past years. We are very thankful and grateful in having you as our customer. We will miss all of you!"

Ebisu on Robson was known for its casual, buzzy atmosphere, in a high-ceilinged second-floor space with seats for 250. The restaurant had a bar-like atmosphere, with plenty of TV screens and colourful decor. 

The Ebisu menu ranged from izakaya-style tapas plates to sushi, sashimi, rice and noodle dishes, fresh oysters, and seafood and meat mains, with many dishes having fun and engaging presentations. The restaurant was known for its happy hour deals and colourful cocktails, with several beer, wine, sake, and non-alcoholic options. 

The business had been listed for sale this year, though it is currently unclear if 827 Bute St has new owners, and, if so, what might be next for the restaurant space.

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