Sushi Ryu

The story

Sushi Ryu Nanaimo – Michelin-Starred Fusion Japanese on Vancouver Island

Sushi Ryu has been a fixture on Nanaimo’s Applecross Road since 2014, earning a devoted following for its thoughtful take on Japanese cuisine with a fusion edge. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and value has recently been recognized with a Michelin 1 Star, a testament to the consistent, high-level cooking the team delivers every day.

The menu balances tradition and creativity. Lunch bento boxes are a popular draw—each served with miso soup, rice, house green salad, tempura, and gyoza. Options range from the straightforward California Bento to the more adventurous Spicy Bento, which offers a choice of spicy tuna or salmon sashimi alongside nigiri and California roll. For those seeking flexibility, the UBUILD Bento lets guests build their own combination from a selection of rolls and proteins, including chicken, beef, or tofu teriyaki, and katsu options. A gluten-free bento is also available, featuring sashimi, nigiri, salmon avocado roll, and gluten-free teriyaki sauce.

Beyond bento, the kitchen turns out a full range of starters, sashimi, sushi, rice and noodle dishes, and desserts. The beverage selection is thoughtfully chosen to complement the food, making Sushi Ryu a fitting stop for lunch, dinner, or a casual bite.

The atmosphere is straightforward and welcoming—no fuss, just a dedicated team putting their best effort into every plate. Open seven days a week from 11am to 9pm for dine-in and takeout, Sushi Ryu offers counter dining, outdoor seating, and delivery. It’s a rare find on Vancouver Island: a Michelin-starred restaurant that remains approachable, serving the neighbourhood with the same care it did on day one.