Vancouver · Izakaya · a la carte
Guu Original Thurlow
Japanese izakayaizakayayakitoriJapanese tapassakeshochuVancouver izakaya pioneer
The original Guu Izakaya on Thurlow Street has defined Vancouver's izakaya scene since 2003, owned by Tokyo-based Yoshinori Kitahara of Kitanoya Marketing Corp. It remains the city's most influential Japanese izakaya, famous for its extensive small-plate menu and authentic Japanese energy.
- Price
- ¥¥
- Area
- West End / Downtown
- Since
- 2003
- Owner
- Yoshinori Kitahara (Kitanoya Marketing Corp., Tokyo)
Plate № 52
About
When Guu Original opened on Thurlow Street in 2003, it introduced Vancouver to the vibrant, sociable culture of the Japanese izakaya — a tradition that has since become central to the city's dining identity. Owner Yoshinori Kitahara, whose Kitanoya Marketing Corp. is based in Tokyo, built a concept true to the Japanese original: a lively, convivial space where small plates of grilled skewers, fresh sashimi, crispy karaage, and seasonal specials are shared over sake, shochu, and Japanese beer. The open kitchen adds theatrical energy, and the warm hospitality recalls the welcoming izakaya spirit of Japan. With multiple Vancouver locations and over two decades of operation, the Guu group remains the standard-bearer for authentic Japanese izakaya culture in Canada.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Opened in 2003 as Vancouver's first authentic Japanese izakaya — the pioneer that defined the city's izakaya culture
- Directly owned by Tokyo-based Yoshinori Kitahara of Kitanoya Marketing Corp. — genuine Japanese corporate ownership
- Extensive menu of authentic Japanese small plates — yakitori, sashimi, karaage, and seasonal specials
- Over two decades of consistent quality and cultural authenticity, earning loyalty from Vancouver's Japanese community
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