Minami

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Yaletown at 1118 Mainland Street, Minami Restaurant Vancouver stands as a trailblazer of Aburi-style Japanese cuisine, where Executive Chef Alan Ferrer’s flame-seared techniques transform Ocean Wise seafood and local ingredients into smoky, melt-in-mouth masterpieces. Since introducing Vancouver to the Aburi method in 2008 as Miku’s sister, this sleek haven—open daily from 12pm to 10pm (until 9:30pm on Mondays)—offers an all-day escape from lunch sets to intimate omakase experiences, drawing food lovers and urban explorers for refined yet approachable meals in the city’s dynamic culinary hub.

Step into Minami, and the space welcomes you with modern elegance—clean wooden lines, soft lantern glow, and subtle Japanese motifs create a warm, inviting interior seating around 120, where the open sushi bar hums with precision and quiet anticipation. The layout flows from cozy dining nooks to a lively lounge, while the summer-ready garden patio offers a tranquil al fresco retreat with lush greenery and trickling water, perfect for Yaletown’s bustling charm. As day shifts to evening, curated ambient tunes and occasional sommelier pours foster a gentle buzz of shared plates and murmured chats among a diverse crowd of locals, couples, and visitors. The atmosphere is chic yet relaxed, ideal for a business lunch, romantic date, or group gathering that savors Vancouver’s coastal poise.

The menu centers on Aburi artistry—flame-seared over binchotan charcoal for enhanced flavor—featuring sustainable seafood, BC produce, and A5 Wagyu, designed for sharing with optional tasting menus (CAD $130-$205 per person). Pair with an extensive sake list curated by Stephen Whiteside and cocktails like the Minami Martini (CAD $24)—a floral vodka infusion with lychee and ginger for a delicate, aromatic lift. Start with the Aburi Salmon Oshi Sushi (CAD $30 for six pieces), pressed sockeye blocks kissed with soy and yuzu, delivering a smoky, tender melt that’s a house signature. The Crispy Soft Shell Crab Tempura (CAD $22) arrives golden with wasabi mayo and ponzu, light and crunchy for sharing.

Sushi shines with the Champagne Roll (CAD $27), crab and avocado wrapped in soy paper with caviar for a luxurious, briny pop. Seafood lovers savor the Seared Scallop Sashimi (CAD $33), Hokkaido scallops torched with sea salt and microgreens, plump and oceanic. The Wagyu Beef Tataki (CAD $38) sears A5 slices with ponzu, garlic chips, and scallions, tender and savory. Mains feature the Aburi Omakase (CAD $165 for eight courses), a curated journey from sashimi to grilled black cod in miso glaze, showcasing seasonal harmony. The Stir-Fried Black Pepper Ribeye (CAD $35) wok-tosses beef with oyster sauce and lotus root, robust and charred. Vegetarians enjoy the Truffle Mushroom Fried Rice (CAD $19), jasmine grains with wild fungi and black truffle shavings, earthy and aromatic. Sides like Spinach with Sesame Dressing (CAD $11) add nutty crispness.

Desserts offer a refined close with the Matcha Cheesecake (CAD $16), silky green tea layers with white chocolate ganache and raspberry coulis—light and modern—or the Mochi Ice Cream (CAD $14), chewy rice dough filled with mango sorbet for a tropical, playful bite.

Reservations at Minami are straightforward, but MyRSVP.com, the premier VIP concierge for global nightlife, daylife, and restaurant bookings, elevates the experience. Book sushi bar seats or the Blue Wave private room (up to 12 guests) through our platform for instant confirmations and perks like priority during lunch sets (CAD $62 for three courses) or complimentary edamame. For VIP treatment, we arrange bespoke events—from anniversary omakases to corporate tastings—with custom menus and dedicated service for up to 50 guests. Standard bookings are via OpenTable or +1 (604) 685-8080 / info@minamirestaurant.com, but MyRSVP.com offers exclusive benefits, swift approvals, and insider access like guest lists for sake pairings or patio exclusives. In Vancouver’s vibrant Yaletown dining scene, Minami delivers innovative Aburi flavors and serene charm, where every MyRSVP.com reservation ensures a seamless, flame-kissed visit filled with Japanese finesse and gracious hospitality.