Vancouver · Izakaya · a la carte
Guu Original Thurlow
Japanese izakayaizakayayakitoriJapanese tapassakeshochuVancouver izakaya pioneer
The original Guu Izakaya on Thurlow Street has defined Vancouver's izakaya scene since 2003, owned by Tokyo-based Yoshinori Kitahara of Kitanoya Marketing Corp. It remains the city's most influential Japanese izakaya, famous for its extensive small-plate menu and authentic Japanese energy.
- Price
- ¥¥
- Area
- West End / Downtown
- Since
- 2003
- Owner
- Yoshinori Kitahara (Kitanoya Marketing Corp., Tokyo)
Plate № 52
About
When Guu Original opened on Thurlow Street in 2003, it introduced Vancouver to the vibrant, sociable culture of the Japanese izakaya — a tradition that has since become central to the city's dining identity. Owner Yoshinori Kitahara, whose Kitanoya Marketing Corp. is based in Tokyo, built a concept true to the Japanese original: a lively, convivial space where small plates of grilled skewers, fresh sashimi, crispy karaage, and seasonal specials are shared over sake, shochu, and Japanese beer. The open kitchen adds theatrical energy, and the warm hospitality recalls the welcoming izakaya spirit of Japan. With multiple Vancouver locations and over two decades of operation, the Guu group remains the standard-bearer for authentic Japanese izakaya culture in Canada.
Neighborhood & visiting
Guu Original Thurlow sits in West End / Downtown, one of Vancouver's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. The house does not publish an online booking link; call ahead to secure a seat, especially on weekends. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional izakaya restaurants often close between service periods.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Opened in 2003 as Vancouver's first authentic Japanese izakaya — the pioneer that defined the city's izakaya culture
- Directly owned by Tokyo-based Yoshinori Kitahara of Kitanoya Marketing Corp. — genuine Japanese corporate ownership
- Extensive menu of authentic Japanese small plates — yakitori, sashimi, karaage, and seasonal specials
- Over two decades of consistent quality and cultural authenticity, earning loyalty from Vancouver's Japanese community
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Frequently asked
About Guu Original Thurlow
- Is Guu Original Thurlow an authentic japanese izakaya restaurant in Vancouver?
- Yes — Guu Original Thurlow is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for japanese izakaya in Vancouver: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused izakaya format.
- Where is Guu Original Thurlow located?
- Guu Original Thurlow is located at 838 Thurlow Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 1W2, Vancouver, Canada in the West End / Downtown neighborhood.
- Do I need a reservation at Guu Original Thurlow?
- Guu Original Thurlow does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular izakaya restaurants in Vancouver we recommend calling ahead.
- What is the price range at Guu Original Thurlow?
- Guu Original Thurlow sits in the ¥¥ price range — typical for japanese izakaya of this format in Vancouver.
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