Team behind one of Richmond's most beloved restaurants is opening a new izakaya
With a 4.4 star rating from nearly 4000 reviews on Google, there’s no disputing that Story Cafe has become a local favourite for the community. Story Cafe operates under the GoodChaos Hospitality team, who also launched The Sequel in Vancouver last year. Now, the team is debuting a new concept; this time, an izakaya.
Located in the former home of Manzo Itamae (which closed after 18 years of operation earlier this year), the new restaurant comes in at 3,000 sq. ft. with 98 seats and three private rooms in a space inspired by a zen garden.
“We feel honoured to have the opportunity to continue the legacy of the Manzo brand that the former owners founded more than 18 years ago, while starting a new one under GoodChaos Hospitality with Wabi,” said Kingsley Ho, owner of GoodChaos Hospitality. “We want Wabi to be an everyday place for guests to enjoy good izakaya dishes, sushi, home-style Japanese comfort food, housemade desserts, and drinks with great people. We can’t wait to open later this month.”
Rendering of Wabi Izakaya
The izakaya-focused menu will pair classic items alongside creative dishes. Think Hamachi Jalapeno Crudo and Uni Seafood Toast alongside a full kushiyaki menu.
At the center of the room, the sushi bar will be serving up sashimi and sushi made to order, and every dessert — from Mits Matcha Tiramisu to Hojicha Panna Cotta — will also be made in-house.
The drink side of things features cocktails created by Ayaka Suehiro alongside Japanese beer, premium sake, and hard-to-find Japanese whisky.
“When I first opened The Story Cafe seven years ago, during the pandemic, our guests were just finding us. However, the Richmond community stuck by us and continues to support us. I knew my next project was going to be in Richmond again,” added Ho. “With Wabi, I also want it to be a place our neighbours can make their own for any occasion.”
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Wabi will softly open its doors this winter, with an official opening date expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Wabi Izakaya
Address:Â 120-9020 Capstan Way, Richmond
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