8 Vancouver restaurants that are now closed or closing soon

The restaurant industry can be fickle, and unfortunately we lost a number of great eateries this month.

Keep on reading to see which restaurants closed this month, as well as which ones will be closing soon.

Closing soon

Fable Kitchen

After over a decade in Vancouver, Fable Kitchen on West 4th Avenue has announced it will be closing on Sept. 20.

The restaurant first opened its doors in 2012 and received much recognition, including a spot on the coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand list, highlighting its quality and value.

This closure follows the closing of its sister restaurant, Fable Diner, whose final day of operation was Aug. 23.

While Fable Kitchen is closing its doors, Fable Bar and Grill at 755 Richards St. will remain open. Additionally, MacGillivray is assuring folks that the Fable brand is not going away, with the team actively exploring new ways to bring Fable to the community, including a food truck and future collaborations.

Address: 1944 W. 4th Ave., Vancouver

The Boathouse Restaurant — New Westminster

The Boathouse Restaurant has made the unfortunate announcement that it will be closing its final location in New Westminster.

Staff at the location confirmed over the phone that its final day of operation will be Dec. 26, marking the end of an era for the brand.

Address: 900 Quayside Dr., New Westminster

Now closed

Lucy’s Eastside Diner

 

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After nearly two decades in Vancouver, Lucy’s Eastside Diner has officially closed its doors.

“Today marks the end of an era as we [officially] close Lucy’s Eastside Diner,” wrote the restaurant on Instagram.

“From launching The Whip in 2006 to slinging burgers at Lucy’s starting in 2010, Lower Main Street has given us 20 years of pure joy, wild memories, and unforgettable moments — from cask nights and the feast of five firkins, to the East Van Show & Shine.”

The diner was best known for its retro vibes and selection of shakes and sandwiches.

“To our incredible crew over the years and the loyal customers who made this place feel like home: thank you for riding along with us. As we step back, a fantastic new team is stepping in. Please welcome them with open arms and show them the same legendary East Van love you gave us for two decades. From the bottom of my heart, from our little family. Thank you for the ride of a lifetime!” added the diner.

Address: 2708 Main St., Vancouver

Sushi Aboard

 

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Sushi Aboard brought a fun bullet train/conveyor belt idea, referred to as “Kaitenzushi” in Japanese, to the saturated Vancouver sushi scene in 2020. 

Located at 1047 Denman St., Sushi Aboard closed that location on Sept. 7, but according to a recent Instagram post, the team is “hard at work” prepping a new location for its operations.

Address: 1047 Denman St., Vancouver

Bistro Sakana

 

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Yaletown has seen some big shakeups recently with its restaurant scene, and now Bistro Sakana has announced it has closed… for the time being, that is.

“The restaurant landscape has shifted significantly recently,” wrote the restaurant on its Instagram. “Changes in the economy and evolving customer dining habits have made running our current concept increasingly difficult. To adapt and thrive, we need to evolve.”

However, the restaurant noted that this is not a final goodbye, as it is preparing to undergo a transformation into a new omakase concept that will debut in 2027.

Address: 1123 Mainland St., Vancouver

Artigiano Main Street

Vancouver-based cafe chain Artigiano has closed the doors to its location on Main Street.

“We have some news to share: our Main Street location will be closing its doors this week,” wrote Artigiano on a sign attached to the door of the now-closed location.

“For years, it’s been our privilege to be part of your mornings, your afternoon breaks, your catch-ups, and everything in between. This place has been shaped by you, and we are incredibly grateful for every visit, every conversation, and every cup shared with us.”

The cafe opened the doors to its first location over 25 years ago in Downtown Vancouver on Hornby Street. Currently, the chain operates 17 locations throughout Metro Vancouver. Additionally, it recently launched its Grand Cafe — a two-storey licensed flagship location with a rooftop patio.

Address: 4010 Main St., Vancouver

Banh Mi Tres Bon — Richmond

 

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After a decade of operation, Banh Mi Tres Bon has announced that it has closed its Richmond location.

“When we opened our doors, we could never have imagined all the people, stories, laughter, celebrations, and memories that would become such a meaningful part of our lives,” wrote the restaurant on Instagram. “What started as a restaurant became so much more because of all of you.”

Located at 4720 McClelland Rd. #1840, Richmond, Banh Mi Tres Bon is best known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine (think pho, vermicelli bowls, spring rolls) and banh mi. The restaurant also operates a location in White Rock at 1459 Johnston Rd., which will remain open.

“We leave with full hearts and so many wonderful memories. Thank you for giving us an incredible 10 years and for allowing us to be a small part of your lives,” concluded the restaurant.

Address: 4720 McClelland Rd. #1840, Richmond

Manzo Itamae Japanese Restaurant

 

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The beloved Richmond restaurant Manzo Itamae has announced that it will be closing its doors after an impressive 18 years of operation.

“After 18 memorable years, Manzo Itamae Japanese Restaurant will permanently close its doors on Sept. 30. Join us one last time and enjoy your favourite Manzo dishes before we say goodbye,” wrote the restaurant on its Instagram.

The restaurant is best known for the traditional Japanese dishes it’s been serving since 2008. Think sashimi, nigiri, aburi sushi, tempura, and more.

However, the restaurant did share that this is not the end, and that a “new chapter is coming soon.” Details on what’s next for the team have yet to be shared. This is a similar situation to Vancouver’s Bistro Sakana, which also announced its closure ahead of a rebrand.

Address: 9020 Capstan Wy. #120, Richmond

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