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Vancouver

Masayoshi is praised for its intimate atmosphere, exceptional omakase experience, and high-quality sushi. Some reviewers note the high price point and limited seating as considerations.

Masayoshi: Vancouver's Intimate Michelin-Starred Omakase Experience

Nestled on Fraser Street in Vancouver, Masayoshi offers an exclusive, intimate omakase dining journey that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. With only 16 seats, including 7 at the sushi bar and 4 tables, this cozy spot promises a personalized experience where Chef Masayoshi Baba meticulously crafts each course using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Awarded a Michelin star, Masayoshi has become synonymous with refined flavors and an authentic taste of Japan right in the heart of British Columbia.

Masayoshi is celebrated for its inventive omakase menu with two seatings each evening at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. Diners are treated to a chef-curated selection of exquisite nigiri and delicately prepared appetizers designed to melt in your mouth. The knowledgeable staff and chef's passionate explanations about the origin and preparation of each fish elevate the dining to a memorable culinary experience. The cozy and intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for special occasions or a unique night out.

Guests can indulge in a variety of expertly paired sake selections, including the highly praised Masayoshi house sake known for its smooth and delightful finish. While the sushi and appetizers are flavorful, some visitors suggest that increasing portion sizes could enhance the overall satisfaction. The chef's dedication shows in the freshness of the fish, particularly favorites like uni, toro, hotate, aji, and hirame. The nodoguro hand roll is a standout, evoking authentic Japanese flavors that transport diners across the Pacific.

 Masayoshi accommodates 16 guests, ensuring an exclusive and intimate experience.

 The restaurant operates Tuesday to Saturday with two seatings at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM, closed Sundays and Mondays.

 A minimum of 3 days' notice is required for cancellations or changes to avoid fees.

Masayoshi enjoys a generally positive reputation within the Vancouver food community. Diners admire the exceptional skill of the chef, the freshness of the seafood, and the authentic atmosphere that transports guests to Japan. The Michelin star recognition adds to its prestige, making it a sought-after destination for omakase lovers and special occasions. However, some patrons have shared constructive feedback regarding reservation timing and portion sizes, hoping for improvements that sustain the restaurant's excellence and guest satisfaction.

What is the seating capacity at Masayoshi?

 Masayoshi has 16 seats including 7 at the sushi bar and 4 tables.

What are the operating hours of Masayoshi?

 It operates Tuesday to Saturday with two seatings at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM, closed Sundays and Mondays.

Is there a cancellation policy for reservations?

 Yes, a minimum of 3 days' notice is required to avoid cancellation fees.

North America

Canada

Nestled in the vibrant Knight neighborhood of Vancouver, Masayoshi is a culinary gem that offers an intimate omakase experience. This Michelin-starred restaurant invites diners to embark on a sensory journey through the art of sushi-making, where each dish is a masterpiece crafted with precision and passion. The cozy atmosphere, accentuated by soft lighting and minimalist decor, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

 At Masayoshi, the menu is a carefully curated selection of seasonal ingredients, showcasing the finest seafood sourced from both local waters and Japan. The highlight of the evening is undoubtedly the chef's signature dishes, including the exquisite Bafun Uni, known for its creamy texture and rich umami flavor, and the melt-in-your-mouth Toro, which is a true testament to the chef's skill and dedication.

The omakase experience at Masayoshi is not just about the food; it’s an immersive journey that engages all the senses. Each course is presented with a story, allowing diners to appreciate the thought and artistry behind every dish. The chef often shares insights about the origins of the ingredients, enhancing the overall experience. 

For those looking to elevate their meal, the **Masayoshi house sake** is a must-try. Its smooth finish complements the delicate flavors of the sushi perfectly, making each bite even more memorable.

Masayoshi stands out not only for its culinary offerings but also for its commitment to quality and authenticity. The restaurant prides itself on using sustainably sourced seafood, ensuring that each dish is not only delicious but also environmentally responsible. 

A fun fact about Masayoshi is that the chef often travels to Japan to refine his techniques and discover new inspirations, bringing a piece of Japan back to Vancouver with him.

 The dress code is smart casual, allowing guests to enjoy a relaxed yet elegant dining experience.

 Yes, reservations are highly recommended as seating is limited and fills up quickly.

 Masayoshi is open for dinner service from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an authentic taste of Japan, Masayoshi promises an unparalleled dining experience. Book your reservation today and immerse yourself in the exquisite flavors of this Michelin-starred restaurant.

Reservations are required at this cozy sushi bar offering two seatings for inventive omakase.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmLVpYMDNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJS7QNEQd0hlQRuTZ2xFQRWHk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmLVpYMDNnRRAB

We had an overall enjoyable experience here, thanks to the kind and attentive staff, including the chef himself. The select dishes served by the chef, including the five appetizers at the start, were excellent. I loved the uni dish and toro. The Masayoshi house sake stood out as my favorite as well —it was incredibly smooth and delightful.

However, as a Michelin-starred restaurant, there are significant areas for improvement:

1. Reservation Timing: We had an 8:30 PM reservation, but the previous seating didn’t finish until 8:45. This delay was not an ideal start to a dinner that lasted until 11 PM. Better coordination is needed to avoid such waits.

2. Portion Sizes: While the sushi and appetizers were flavorful, the portions were underwhelming. We left still feeling hungry after a nearly $500 meal. We actually had to stop by at the hotel bar to have more food. Compared to other top-tier omakase experiences globally, the sushi pieces were notably smaller, with disappointingly thinner slices of fish. I feel they won't lose much profit even if they increase the quantity by 30-40%.

3. The system: The chef frequently left the bar to prepare dishes and manage staff, which disrupted the flow of the meal. This gave the impression of a lack of coordination. The system should be refined so the chef can stay focused on the dining experience without interruptions.

Despite these critiques, it was still a great experience. Given the restaurant’s Michelin recognition, I hope this constructive feedback helps them enhance their offerings and provide even greater joy to their customers.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2bzV5bnVBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJS7QNEQd0hlQRuTZ2xFQRWHk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2bzV5bnVBRRAB

Not worth the hype firstly

I had high expectations for Masayoshi, especially given its 1-star Michelin status, but this was one of the most mediocre omakase experiences I’ve had in years. While the service was solid, the quality and execution of the dishes left a lot to be desired. For the price, I expected far more creativity, flavor, and refinement.

If you’re looking for a memorable omakase, you’re better off at Sushi Hil (better quality at half the price), Yaletown Okeya, or even Mahana in North Vancouver. I dine on omakase at least twice a month, and this experience just didn’t meet the standard.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQNUlMamJnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJS7QNEQd0hlQRuTZ2xFQRWHk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQNUlMamJnEAE

I remember when I visited Masayoshi in 2022, pre-Michelin star, I was blown away by the quality of the ingredients and the creativity of the preparation.

Two years later, I decided to take my best friend, and I’m sad to say that it did not meet my expectations. I’ve had omakase in Vancouver, NYC, and Japan, both Michelin and non-Michelin. Masayoshi used to be my favourite.

The main points I find lacking for an omakase of this price point and calibre, both general and not:

1) the amount of imported seafood from Japan was quite lacking this time. They mostly stuck to local, and it wasn’t impressive.

2) many of the appetizers’ flavours felt similar and blended together. None were very memorable, and quite bland compared to my previous experience here.

3) there was too much cooked fish in the appetizers compared to before. While some may prefer this, I’m here for the freshest fish presented in the freshest way — raw.

4) I love chutoro. Today, my chutoro was stringy and hard to chew through. What I consider both a miss in terms of quality and expertise.

5) My reservation was at 8:30, we arrived on time, but we did not start until 8:50. I think punctuality is a sign of appreciation and professionalism, and customers definitely deserve at least that.

My favorite nigiris were hotate, aji, and hirame. They were all paired with seasoning that were chosen well to elevate the flavour of the fish. Of course bafun uni never misses.
Also loved the nodoguro hand roll, took me back to Kanazawa.

Anyways, I do hope the “wow” factor of Masayoshi returns soon!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURidk9uNlp3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJS7QNEQd0hlQRuTZ2xFQRWHk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURidk9uNlp3EAE

An amazing birthday experience! I highly recommend Masayoshi Omakase for dinner for any special occasion or even on a normal night! It’s such an intimate atmosphere, the staff were amazing, and the food spectacular. The restaurant definitely earned its Michelin star as every detail was finely curated and tailored to melt in our mouth. The staff and chef’s knowledge of the various different fish and where the origin of the fish was exported from was evident in their passionate explanations and omakase preparation. I felt like I was transported back to Japan. If you would like an authentic taste of Japan and simply miss the vibrant country and want a unique experience, I definitely recommend Masayoshi!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqa2JfdlNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJS7QNEQd0hlQRuTZ2xFQRWHk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqa2JfdlNnEAE

Excellent omakase here in Vancouver! Really enjoyed my experience, everyone was super helpful and accommodating. The chef was extremely skilled and his craft was well refined. The fish was exquisite and amazingly fresh and all the dishes were put together to absolute perfection. If you can afford this I would say definitely go for the sake pairings as well.

Experience Michelin-Star Omakase at Masayoshi, Vancouver

Masayoshi is a Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant in Vancouver, known for its intimate omakase dining experience crafted by Chef Masayoshi Baba.

Masayoshi: A journey through culinary distinction in vancouver's omakase scene.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Knight on Fraser Street, Masayoshi has established itself as an iconic Japanese restaurant in Vancouver, British Columbia. Renowned for its intimate omakase dining experience, this culinary gem is the creative vision of Chef Masayoshi Baba, whose meticulous approach and passion for Japanese cuisine have earned Masayoshi a coveted Michelin star.

Since its recognition began, Masayoshi has demonstrated a fluctuating yet impressive trajectory in Canada's culinary rankings. In 2017, it was celebrated as the 51st best restaurant nationwide—a testament to its early impact on Vancouver’s dining landscape. The following year, it climbed slightly higher to 48th place, underscoring growing appreciation for its cuisine and ambiance.

In 2019, the restaurant saw a dip to 78th, reflecting the competitive nature of Canadian gastronomy, but rebounded in 2020 to 58th place. Despite missing the rankings in 2021 and 2022, Masayoshi made a strong comeback, placing 52nd in 2023, followed by a slight adjustment to 59th in 2024. These rankings reveal a dynamic journey, marked by continual refinement and dedication to quality.

culinary philosophy and dining experience

revolves around an inventive omakase menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The chef’s commitment to quality and detail is evident in every dish, carefully crafted to deliver an authentic taste of Japan in the heart of Vancouver.

This approach has won praise from many diners for transporting them to Japan through vibrant flavors and impeccable presentation. The intimate seating arrangement fosters a unique connection between the chef and guests, making it ideal for special occasions or those seeking a refined dining journey.

customer insights and evolving expectations

While Masayoshi’s Michelin star affirms its excellence, feedback from patrons reveals a nuanced picture. Enthusiasts applaud the exceptional freshness of the fish and the chef’s knowledgeable craftsmanship. However, some have noted areas where the experience could be further elevated, such as portion sizes, timing coordination, and the balance of ingredients sourced locally versus imported.

Some diners experienced delays between seatings, impacting the flow of the meal.

Complaints about underwhelming sushi sizes suggest an opportunity to enhance value while maintaining premium quality.

A shift towards more local seafood has been noted, though some patrons miss the previously used imported Japanese fish for its distinct flavor.

Despite these critiques, many guests continue to celebrate Masayoshi as a worthwhile splurge for an unforgettable omakase experience that combines culinary artistry with a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s ability to evoke the essence of Japanese cuisine, supported by passionate staff and detailed presentations, remains a central part of its enduring charm.

For Vancouverites and travelers seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience beyond the ordinary, Masayoshi offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The restaurant’s Michelin star status is a beacon of its high standards, while the chef’s dedication to crafting each piece of sushi ensures an immersive journey into Japan’s rich culinary heritage.

Meticulously curated omakase menus showcasing seasonal, fresh fish.

An intimate dining atmosphere perfect for celebrations or special nights out.

Expertise and passion of Chef Masayoshi Baba and his attentive team.

Masayoshi is a cozy sushi bar in Vancouver's Knight neighborhood, offering an inventive omakase experience with a focus on traditional Japanese cuisine and contemporary presentation. Reservations are required for a unique dining experience.

Masayoshi

Experience a curated selection of seasonal and innovative dishes crafted by Chef Masayoshi Baba.

14-Piece Nigiri Sushi Omakase

16-Piece Nigiri Sushi Omakase

Original Creation Omakase

Omakase Menu

Masayoshi Omakase Menu Overview Vancouver BC Canada - Exquisite Sushi & Japanese Delicacies at Fraser Street 4376 Knight Neighborhood Metro Vancouver British Columbia Canada  

At Masayoshi, located at 4376 Fraser Street in Vancouver's vibrant Knight neighborhood, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously curated omakase dining experience that celebrates the art of Japanese sushi craftsmanship. This intimate Michelin-starred sushi bar offers a refined menu that epitomizes elegance and precision, perfect for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Japan with a local Vancouver touch.

The journey begins with a selection of appetizers that showcase the chef's skillful balance of delicate flavors and textures. From fresh uni to expertly prepared toro, the starters set a sophisticated tone, highlighting both local ingredients and subtle Japanese influences. The thoughtful presentation and seasoning elevate each bite to a memorable prelude for the courses ahead.

Central to Masayoshi’s offering is the Nigiri Omakase, served either at the sushi bar or at a private table. Each set includes six pieces of nigiri crafted with precision and care, paired with miso soup and a dessert to complete the meal. The nigiri presents a delicate marriage of texture and taste, featuring fresh fish that is sourced primarily from local waters with occasional premium imports. Signature nigiri selections include hotate (scallop), aji (horse mackerel), hirame (flounder), and the ever-popular bafun uni, all seasoned thoughtfully to enhance their natural flavors.

To conclude the dining experience, a carefully selected dessert offers a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory courses. While kept elegantly simple, the dessert is designed to leave a lasting impression, rounding off the meal with finesse and harmony.

Complementing the exquisite food is a thoughtfully curated drinks selection. Masayoshi offers a variety of fine sake, including the house sake praised for its smoothness and delightful character, as well as a refined wine list and carefully crafted cocktails. The beverage pairings are designed to enhance the omakase experience, elevating every flavor nuance presented in the dishes.

Masayoshi offers two seatings per evening, making reservations essential to secure a spot at this cozy sushi bar known for its intimate atmosphere. Diners can expect a personalized and immersive experience, guided by the chef’s passionate explanations of fish origins and preparation techniques. This hands-on approach transports guests to Japan’s culinary heart, delivering an omakase journey that melds tradition with innovative touches.

 to enjoy the exclusive omakase experience at Masayoshi.

 combining local fresh seafood with select Japanese imports.

 demonstrated in each nigiri and appetizer.

 of sake and cocktails to complement the sushi.

Savor culinary excellence at Masayoshi in Vancouver’s Knight neighborhood. Relish exquisite sushi and a unique dining experience. Book your table now!

Masayoshi: Exquisite Sushi Dining in Vancouver

Vancouver Municipality

A personalized multi-course meal showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Omakase Dining

A selection of sake chosen to complement the omakase experience.

Sake Pairing

Masayoshi Vancouver - Intimate Michelin-Starred Omakase Dining Experience in Knight Neighborhood 

Nestled in the vibrant Knight neighborhood of Vancouver, Masayoshi offers a truly special and intimate omakase dining experience. This cozy sushi bar is renowned for its carefully curated tasting menu crafted by Chef Masayoshi Baba, whose skillful artistry has earned the restaurant a coveted Michelin star. Located at 4376 Fraser Street, Masayoshi invites food lovers and sushi aficionados to indulge in a refined journey of Japanese culinary excellence.

Exquisite Omakase Offerings and Sake Pairings

At Masayoshi, the highlight is the omakase dining experience priced at CAD 220. Guests are treated to a thoughtfully composed selection that includes five appetizers, six pieces of nigiri sushi, a comforting bowl of miso soup, and a refined dessert to conclude the meal. Each dish showcases the freshest fish and ingredients, expertly prepared to elevate natural flavors. For those seeking a complete sensory adventure, a curated sake pairing is available for an additional CAD 95, complementing the nuanced flavors of the sushi with smooth, traditional Japanese sake varieties.

Dining at Masayoshi is an intimate affair with limited seating, emphasizing personalized service and a close connection to the chef. The ambiance is tranquil and reflective of traditional Japanese minimalism, creating a perfect setting for savoring each meticulously prepared bite. Guests appreciate the attentive staff and the chef’s passionate knowledge of each fish's origin, which enriches the storytelling behind every dish. While some diners note that portions are modest and timing can be strict, the overall experience is one of culinary artistry and authenticity.

 offering an expertly crafted multi-course meal by Chef Masayoshi Baba.

 appetizers, nigiri, miso soup, and dessert designed for a memorable Japanese dining journey.

 available to beautifully complement the flavor profiles at an additional cost.

 due to limited seating ensuring a tranquil and personalized dining ambiance.

Located in Vancouver's Knight neighborhood

 making it an accessible destination for travelers and locals alike seeking premier sushi.

To fully enjoy Masayoshi, it's recommended to book your reservation well in advance due to the restaurant’s intimate size and popularity. Arrive on time to respect the smooth flow of the omakase service. While some guests have noted smaller portion sizes compared to other global omakase spots, the emphasis remains on quality over quantity with an exquisite selection of fresh ingredients. Consider adding the sake pairing to heighten the flavors and complete your authentic Japanese dining experience right in Vancouver.

Metro Vancouver

Discover Masayoshi in Vancouver's Knight neighborhood. Experience exquisite omakase, fresh sushi, and authentic Japanese cuisine crafted by Chef Baba.

Masayoshi Vancouver - Michelin-Starred Japanese Omakase & Fine Dining

Indulge in high-end sushi and omakase menus at Masayoshi Vancouver. Enjoy an intimate setting with expert service and seasonal ingredients.

Experience Top Sushi & Omakase at Masayoshi Vancouver - Luxury Dining

Taste authentic Japanese flavors at Masayoshi, Vancouver. Known for exceptional sushi, curated menus, and a refined atmosphere in Knight.

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