Downtown Vancouver is getting a restaurant dedicated to Japanese rice balls
Over the last couple of years, the lunch scene around Vancouver’s Public Library has experienced significant growth. Whether you’re looking for a quick bowl of ramen, an automated dumpling shop, or your choice from one of the many sandwich purveyors like Pressato and Dante Italian Sandwich, there have been plenty of new and exciting spots to try. Now, another grab-and-go spot is joining the fray soon, specializing in onigiri (a.k.a. Japanese rice balls).
Onigiri Ya confirmed to Dished that it will be opening at 202 — 345 Robson St., at Library Square.
Onigiri Ya
“Just like our Broadway location, this will be a Grab & Go concept—perfect for the busy downtown crowd looking for an affordable, quick, and delicious lunch option,” shared Onigiri Ya.
Plus, if it’s anything like its Broadway spot, you can expect a variety of tasty onigiri starting at just $1.99.
The concept comes from the same team as Maruhachi Ra-men. Onigiri Ya’s Broadway location, which opened in August 2024, originally operated in the company’s sister ramen joint, Menya JuĂ©mon, before permanently taking over the space.
Since then, Onigiri Ya has also opened a dine-in concept inside Maruhachi Gaiden, where it serves unique flavours you can’t find at its grab-and-go concept. One of these is its seared cheese onigiri, an ooey-gooey creation with whatever filling you desire.
An exact opening date for this new location has yet to be announced, but customers can expect to get their hands on these Japanese rice balls sometime this November.
Onigiri Ya — Downtown Vancouver
Address: 202 — 345 Robson St., Vancouver
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