Seemor
Guu Original ThurlowA-Worth Trying
838 Thurlow St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1W2, Canada
· Izakaya restaurant, Japanese restaurant, Tapas restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (2223 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
A lively, authentic-feeling izakaya with standout small plates (yaki-udon, karaage, kimchi fried rice) and energetic service; expect crowds, noise, time limits, and occasional service delays.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Guu Original Thurlow delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by standout staples like yaki-udon and karaage, supported by reliable service attentiveness. The warm, authentic izakaya energy and strong local loyalty reflect genuine appeal, though cramped quarters and peak-time service delays prevent grade A territory. Competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants and worth seeking out for quality Japanese casual dining.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, with staff greetings and an open-kitchen buzz that many say feels like being back in Japan. One diner summed it up: "The energy is contagious and the plates keep landing fast." Expect a compact space, occasional waits, and lively, noisy vibes. The cooking leans elevated traditional: izakaya staples done with care, plus a few fusion nudges like kimchi-udon and sake-butter mussels. Regulars rave about yaki-udon, karaage, ebi mayo, and kimchi fried rice, while premium sashimi sets bring a pricier flourish. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly comfort like fried chicken, rice, and noodles, though it can be loud and space is tight. There is no explicit kids menu, but simple dishes work well; adventurous seafood and sashimi may suit older kids more than picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Lively, authentic-feeling izakaya vibe with energetic greetings
- Standout staples (yaki-udon, karaage, kimchi fried rice, ebi mayo)
- Peak-time service delays and occasional order errors
- Small, noisy space; clothes may pick up kitchen aromas
- Reservations recommended; time limits around 2 hours reported
What Sets It Apart
- classic_izakaya_energy
- counter_dining_show
- signature_yaki_udon_kimchi_rice
What People Love
- That first blast of lively izakaya energy
- Comforting noodles and fried favorites
- Fresh, clean-tasting seafood dishes
- Watching cooks work from counter seats
Points of Concern
- Service can lag at peak times; reports of missed or delayed orders
- Very loud and tightly packed; some mention leaving with smoky clothing
- Premium sashimi sets are pricey; portions on some seafood debated
- Lunch service quality is more variable than dinner per a few reports
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostC$38-54 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a shareable lineup: Karaage + Ebi Mayo + Yaki-Udon + Kimchi Fried Rice (C$59-60 feeds 2 light eaters).
- Seafood-forward night: Ikamaru + Saba Mackerel + Tuna & Salmon Tataki (C$43-44) plus rice (C$3).
- Sashimi enthusiasts: Start with 3 kinds Sashimi (C$32) and add a hot small plate for balance.
Perfect For
- Pre-concert eats with quick small plates
- Casual date at the counter watching the kitchen
- Group shareable feast with drinks
- Solo noodle fix at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Energetic downtown corridor near shopping and offices; popular with after-work and night-out crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, with steady foot traffic into late evening.
Nearby: Close to Robson/Alberni retail, hotels, and bars; convenient pre-concert dining option.
West EndThe West End is a densely populated, walkable neighborhood known for its proximity to Stanley Park and English Bay. It offers a diverse dining environment ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a relaxed yet cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Coal HarbourCoal Harbour is a waterfront micro-neighborhood within the West End, characterized by high-end residential towers and scenic views. Dining here tends to be upscale with a focus on seafood and contemporary cuisine, catering to a more affluent clientele.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:00
Tuesday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:00
Wednesday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:00
Thursday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:00
Friday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:30
Saturday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:30
Sunday11:30–14:00, 17:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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