In 2023, Richmond affirmed its position as a culinary capital by introducing an impressive array of diverse eateries. These new additions range from innovative confectioneries and premier dining establishments to modest, traditional gems. Richmond continued to contribute to North America’s Asian culinary landscape, providing gastronomic experiences from the East and beyond.
Below we present the 12 noteworthy restaurants that made their grand entrance in Richmond in 2023, promising something for every food enthusiast.
Daan Go Cake Lab
Location: #100-4731 Garden City Rd.
Daan Go Cake Lab, nestled at #100-4731 Garden City Rd., is the innovative creation of Christopher Siu, a winner of MasterChef Canada. This patisserie has swiftly garnered attention throughout Richmond for its eye-catching, artistically designed cakes. Notably, these cakes are not just ordinary in their appearance; they take on forms that are as unique as a simmering hot pot, a meticulously roasted pig, or a spiky durian, making them a hit on social media platforms like Instagram. The bakery doesn’t stop at cakes; it also offers character-themed macarons, adding to its popularity and appeal.
Osmanthus
Location: #2788-4151 Hazelbridge Way
Located at #2788-4151 Hazelbridge Way, Osmanthus presents itself as a luxurious Chinese restaurant specializing in the culinary traditions of Southern China, particularly from regions like Shanghai. It prides itself on serving dishes that are rooted in recipes dating back to the Song Dynasty, providing patrons with an opportunity to delve into the depths of China’s extensive and rich culinary history. This establishment aims to offer an exquisite dining experience that echoes the sophistication and depth of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Masa Ishibashi
Location: #130-8411 Bridgeport Rd.
Masa Ishibashi, situated at #130-8411 Bridgeport Rd., is a celebrated addition to Richmond’s dining landscape, thanks to the renowned chef Masakazu Ishibashi, who has earned Michelin star recognition. This establishment has brought a slice of Japan’s esteemed dining culture to Richmond, particularly specializing in Edomae Cuisine. This culinary style, which has a storied history in Japan, is celebrated for its use of fresh ingredients sourced directly from Japan’s famed fish markets. Masa Ishibashi is a testament to Richmond’s growing reputation as a hub for Michelin-starred gastronomy, offering a dining experience that is deeply rooted in Japanese culinary traditions.
A Bite of Shunde
Location: #2215-4653 Garden City Rd.
With A Bite of Shunde’s arrival, Richmond now enjoys the gastronomic artistry from Shunde, the cradle of Cantonese cuisine. The district, located in Southern China, is renowned for its superior Cantonese dishes and is a declared City of Gastronomy by UNESCO. Shunde’s cooking is known for its use of high-quality ingredients and its preservation of natural flavors.
Grill Party
Location: #120-8511 Alexandra Rd.
Grill Party is a Northeastern Chinese-style barbecue haven that immediately catches the eye with its vivid neon signs both on the exterior and interior. The menu features delectable dishes such as lamb and beef skewers, hot pan dishes, and steamed scallops with glass noodles, all accompanied by a broad selection of cocktails and beverages.
Little Karp Seafood Restaurant & Bar
Location: 8631 Alexandra Rd.
This new entrant in the Richmond dining scene has successfully created a fusion menu that effortlessly combines Western cooking techniques with less-known Chinese ingredients. Little Karp Seafood Restaurant & Bar sources its seafood from Steveston Wharf and local fisheries, while produce and olive oil come from B.C. berry farms and The Olive Farm on Salt Spring Island.
Chinese Baozi Master
Location: #1085-3700 No. 3 Rd.
In contrast to some of the more upscale dining establishments, Chinese Baozi Master is a simple yet attractive culinary destination. Nestled in Yaohan Centre’s food court, it specializes in traditional Northern Chinese breakfast staples, particularly steamed stuffed buns or baozi.
Nyonya House
Location: #100-3866 Bayview St.
Surrounded by Freshslice Pizza and Blue Canoe Waterfront on Bayview Street, Nyonya House brings authentic Malaysian food to Richmond. Must-try items include its roti canai, satay skewers, nasi lemak, laksa, Hainanese chicken, and rendang beef.
Kazuhan Yakiniku BBQ
Location: #1150-8391 Alexandra Rd.
If you’re eager to experience traditional Japanese-style BBQ, make sure to visit Kazuhan Yakiniku. The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat BBQ experience starting at just $48 per person, as well as a lunch menu featuring a variety of rice and noodle dishes.
Daowei Haige Seafood
Location: 7911 Alderbridge Way
Daowei Haige Seafood introduces a novel food concept from Southern China: “marinated raw seafood in sauce”. Fresh seafood like fish, shrimps, crabs, and oysters are immersed in a specially crafted sauce and refrigerated to marinate, preserving the seafood’s freshness while enhancing the flavor.
Yokai Tapas and Sake Bar
Location: #140-8133 Cook Rd.
Yokai Tapas and Sake Bar, an izakaya-style Japanese bar, offers an authentic Japanese social dining experience. With its diverse cocktail selection and traditional Japanese dishes, this eatery provides a casual, comfortable space for after-work relaxation.
Datang BBQ & Beer
Location: #50-8100 Ackroyd Rd.
Datang BBQ & Beer, a Northern Chinese-style barbecue establishment, offers an all-you-can-eat experience for just $39.95 per person. The menu carries a wide range of dishes, from meat and ribs to chicken palm, beef intestines, chicken gizzards, beef tongue, and more.
Conclusion
Richmond’s culinary scene continues to evolve, offering a diverse array of dining options for food enthusiasts. Whether you are seeking innovative bakeries, Michelin-starred dining, or simply want to enjoy authentic regional cuisine, Richmond is undoubtedly a gastronomic paradise. The city’s unwavering commitment to culinary diversity, authenticity, and quality truly makes it a food destination worth exploring.
Richmond’s continually evolving food scene is a true testament to its rich cultural diversity and international influences. With the unveiling of these twelve remarkable new establishments in 2023, Richmond has further solidified its standing as a North American culinary haven, particularly for Asian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie hunting for the next memorable dining experience or a casual diner craving something different, the new restaurant offerings in Richmond cater to all tastes. Each restaurant brings its unique charm, tradition, and flavor, promising an incredible culinary journey in Richmond.