Seemor
Guu with GarlicB+Worth Trying
1698 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1C7, Canada
· Izakaya restaurant, Japanese restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (1712 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Bustling Japanese izakaya with fast service, tasty small plates, and lively vibes; portions run small and service can be inconsistent, but regulars love the atmosphere and signatures like yaki udon and grilled fish.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Guu with Garlic delivers authentic izakaya energy with standout food quality—yaki udon, fresh sashimi, and miso-glazed fish earn consistent praise. However, inconsistent execution (occasional over-salting, soggy dishes) and variable service reliability during busy periods prevent a higher grade. The lively West End setting and quick service appeal to repeat visitors, but tight quarters and small portions require a sharing mindset to justify the value.
Restaurant Summary
A compact room hums with lively izakaya energy: chalkboard specials, clatter from the open kitchen, and the option to slip off your shoes for floor seating. Plates arrive quickly and pair well with a cold drink; one diner noted it felt like discovering a back-alley spot in Tokyo, while another praised the noodles as "smoky and springy." The cooking leans classic izakaya with playful twists—think yaki udon, pristine sashimi, and grilled cod alongside rich scallop mayo pizza or curry poutine. Flavors are bold and satisfying more than showy, with specials that change and sell out. Portions tilt small, so sharing several plates works best. Families can make it work thanks to kid-friendly staples like udon, croquettes, fries, chicken tempura, and mild grilled fish. There is no stated kids menu, and the room gets loud; floor seating may be uncomfortable for taller guests. Expect C$42-60 per person for a full meal, more with drinks.
At a Glance
- High-energy, authentic izakaya vibe with chalkboard specials
- Standouts include yaki udon, sashimi, and miso-glazed fish
- Portions are small; value depends on sharing strategy
- Service can be hit-or-miss during busy times
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- tatami_style_seating
- chalkboard_daily_specials
- open_kitchen_energy
What People Love
- Buzzing, Tokyo-like atmosphere
- Fast pacing with hot dishes
- Reliable favorites like yaki udon
- Fresh sashimi and rotating specials
- Tatami-style seating novelty
Points of Concern
- Service inconsistency: missed orders or brusque interactions appear in a minority of reviews, especially at peak times
- Portions skew small; ordering multiple plates is typical to feel full
- Occasional dish misses (over-salty or texture issues) and rare safety complaints like a fish bone
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (C$25+ mains) which may surprise casual diners
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostC$42-60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a mid-priced sashimi (C$13.8-15.8) with one hot noodle (C$15.8-16.8) and a veggie side (C$6.8-12.8) for balanced value
- Opt for grilled fish mains (C$26) if you want a substantial centerpiece plate
Perfect For
- Casual nights with friends
- Late-night small plates and drinks
- Solo counter dining
- Pre- or post-park bites near Stanley Park
Location Insights
Area: Lively West End strip near Denman and Stanley Park, popular with locals and visitors for casual dining and nightlife.
Safety: Generally safe, high foot traffic, well lit; typical downtown crowds late night.
Nearby: Close to Stanley Park, English Bay, hotels and apartments; strong bar and restaurant scene on Robson/Denman.
West EndThe West End is a lively, walkable neighborhood with a strong community feel, featuring a wide range of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It attracts a diverse crowd due to its proximity to Stanley Park, beaches, and downtown amenities, fostering a social atmosphere that is both relaxed and cosmopolitan.
Robson Street CorridorRobson Street is a well-known shopping and dining strip within the West End, characterized by high foot traffic, trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–14:30, 17:00–23:30
Tuesday11:30–14:30, 17:00–23:30
Wednesday11:30–14:30, 17:00–23:30
Thursday11:30–14:30, 17:00–23:30
Friday11:30–14:30, 17:00–01:00
Saturday11:30–00:30
Sunday11:30–23:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →