One of the oldest authentic Japanese restaurants in Vancouver has closed, and here's what's replacing it

Aug 19 2025, 5:56 pm

It’s been an unfortunate year for many longstanding Vancouver restaurants, and now another one has closed its doors after 43 years: Kibune Sushi.

Located in Kitsilano, Kibune branded itself as one of the oldest authentic Japanese restaurants in Vancouver, having opened its original location on July 1, 1982. Its menu featured your classic sushi offerings, as well as the option to enjoy an omakase dinner.

Kibune joins the likes of other longstanding restaurants that have recently closed including Ma Dang Goul, Wally’s Burgers Vancouver location, and Ba Le Deli and Bakery Kingsway outpost, to name a few.

An official closure announcement from the restaurant has yet to be made, but according to the City of Vancouver Open Data Portal, it’s currently listed as “Gone Out of Business.”

Additionally, a new restaurant is already slated to open in the location called Syu.

“Come experience our take on modern Japanese dining in the heart of Kitsilano. Fresh ingredients, warm hospitality, and a cozy space waiting for you,” shared the restaurant.

 

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Currently, the restaurant is scheduled to softly open on Aug. 20 with limited seating available.

Dished requested more details from Syu, but did not receive a response before publication.

Syu Kitsilano

Address: 1508 Yew St., Vancouver

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