Vancouver Good

It all started with my hairdresser. He and I often talk restaurants when he’s cutting my hair and I often wax on about my love of Dan Japanese Restaurant to him.

However, as much as I love Dan, it isn’t the cheapest place on the block.

So, my hairdresser tells me to go try Iki on Broadway. It’s good and cheap, he said. I went one evening based on his recommendation and it was quite tasty. Sushi was reasonably fresh and they had some interesting menu items that made it stand out from your standard Japanese place. The style is hard to define – not as trendy as the Eatery or Clubhouse, but not a Kamei Sushi either. It was also well-priced and perfect for an every day place. However, a couple months later I returned and the food was good, but not what I remembered.

Of course I complain about this to my hairdresser. What does he say? The chef has moved to their second location on 4th ave now – Mandala Iki. The 4th ave location is better, he tells me.

Mandala Iki is a full on Asian bistro, meaning it serves Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese items. Usually, this is a complete red flag for me. But if you don’t have faith in your hairdresser, who else can you trust?

So, off I go to Mandala Iki…and it’s great. Cheap, good service, and a good menu. And I have to say, they do a good nostalgic version of my childhood favourite, vegetable chow mein with the crispy noodles. I always get the chow mein with a roll and some nigiri sushi. It’s become my new comfort food spot.  A meal for the two of us typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on what we order.

I go to Mandala Iki 1-2 times a month. I have not been back to Iki in a while as it’s less convenient for me, but it’s always busy when I go by. I am partial to Mandala Iki right now though. Until I see my hairdresser again.

Iki Japanese Restaurant
2756 W. Broadway, Vancouver
(604) 731-4771

Mandala Iki Asian Bistro
2394 W. 4th Ave
(604) 734-3715