Water Street Cafe in Vancouver: Dinner and Live Music in Gastown

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My sister, Me Shell, invited Chew Steel and me out to celebrate Kevin’s birthday at Water Street Cafe in Gastown. We sat on the second floor, where the restaurant features live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Let’s listen to “Hotel California” for this post.

Water Street Cafe attracts tourists with its prime location across from Gastown’s iconic Steam Clock. Built in 1977 by horologist Raymond Saunders, the clock doubles as a steam vent. Every 15 minutes, it whistles and releases steam with a shrill pwee-pwoo-pwee-pwooo. Having grown up in Vancouver, I know the sound well.

The musician, Sean from the Yukon, had such a good voice that both Kevin and Chew Steel remarked on it. Meanwhile, a table of American tourists in the corner was determined to record the Gastown Steam Clock. They shushed everyone in the restaurant and even asked the musician to stop playing. My gosh, all that fuss for a wheezing whistle that sounded more like a malfunction than a musical performance. By the third pwee-pwoo, I was cringing in my seat.

Me Shell ordered a whole whack of appetizers for the table: Bison Carpaccio ($25), two orders of West Coast Crab Cakes ($27), two orders of Garlic Cheese Toast ($14), two orders of Lemon Pepper Fries ($13), Burrata & Pesto ($21), Burrata Caprese ($26), and a Caesar Salad ($20). For our mains, Chew Steel and I picked the Seafood Gnocchi ($38), Me Shell selected Mushroom Gnocchi ($33), and Kevin ordered the Maple-Bourbon Short Rib ($48). The kids ordered the seafood gnocchi and the Rigatoni Arrabbiata ($36).

I was really impressed with the appetizers. The bison carpaccio was a rich bite. The meat was paired with Grana Padano and creamy truffle aioli. With the addition of spring greens and crispy capers, each bite was a satisfying contrast of soft and crunchy.

Chew Steel really enjoyed the garlic cheese toast, which is made with the restaurant’s signature house-made focaccia. The bread was ultra light, crispy on the outside and spongy on the inside. The decadent cheese was a mixture of garlic butter, Parmesan, mozzarella, and chevre; it was hot and gooey.

I tried both the burrata with pesto and caprese-style. The latter was my favourite of the two; the fresh milky white burrata contrasted with juicy, tart tomatoes and balsamic drizzle.

Kevin and Chew Steel raved about the West Coast crab cakes. Crisp on the outside, the filling was a soft mixture of blue crab, baby shrimp and saffron aioli. I liked the pop of corn and distinct crab flavour.

The Caesar was very tasty. The house-made dressing was heavy-handed, garlicky, and covered every Romaine heart crevice. Chew Steel isn’t a fan of garlic, but I am.

The lemon pepper fries were surprisingly good. The fries were puffy and extra crispy, like Costco’s battered version, dusted with a subtle but bright lemon pepper seasoning. The potato filling was soft and fluffy.

Kevin picked the best-looking entree. The portion of the short rib and whipped potato was generous. He gave a piece to all his kids to try, and offered us a bite. We were so full from the appetizers, we declined.

The gnocchi was exceptionally soft and almost custardy, collapsing against my teeth rather than offering any chew. My favourite seafood was the jumbo tiger prawns, which had a satisfying snap. The Manila clams were tiny, while the baby scallops tasted fresh. The lemon-dill sauce was velvety and rich.

The 2022 Blue Grouse Ortega from the Cowichan Valley ($58) paired well with our gnocchi. After a bite of the creamy seafood, the Ortega tasted especially crisp and refreshing.

Baby K kept working his way through the rigatoni while Me Shell repeatedly warned him to stop before he made himself sick. His eyes were huge, and each forkful seemed harder to swallow than the last, but he kept shovelling pasta into his mouth as though finishing it were a moral obligation. When I asked why he wouldn’t surrender, Me Shell explained that he couldn’t bear to waste food. Eventually, his big sister staged an intervention and pushed the plate out of reach.

Chew Steel was particularly taken with both the food and the live music. Thank you to Me Shell for treating us to such a lovely evening, and happy birthday to Kevin. Between the talented musician, delicious meal and far too much rigatoni, it was a memorable night.

Japanese · Sushi · Vancouver/Richmond

Mega Sushi Richmond Review: A Mega-Generous Japanese Lunch

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Narc asked what I was craving for lunch. Sushi! The last time I ate Japanese food was in December 2025. He didn’t know where to order from, and the only place I knew was Mega Sushi. It was a 20-minute drive each way, but Narc was willing to make the trip. He dragged Jellybean along so he could use the HOV lane. Let’s listen to “The Distance” for this post.

Narc ordered far too much food. He’s just like Boss Lady that way. For himself, Enforcer and the kids, he chose the Sushi and Sashimi Lunch ($24.95), which came with miso soup, sunomono, appetizer tempura, salad, fruit and a daily special. Chew Steel and I shared two Chopped Scallop Rolls ($6.45), along with a Negitoro Roll ($5.95), Salmon Belly ($4.65), Tuna Belly ($4.65), Tako ($3.75) and Wild Salmon ($4.65). Narc also added two orders each of the Assorted Tempura ($14.95) and Ebi Mayo ($11.95) and an extra negitoro roll.

Chew Steel and I benefited from Narc’s overordering, sampling the green salad, miso soup and sunomono. Everything tasted notably fresh. I was surprised to discover that the included fruit was a quarter of a particularly juicy orange.

The tuna belly practically melted in my mouth, while the salmon belly tasted rich and fresh. The ratio of fish to rice was just right, keeping each bite balanced. Chew Steel also commented on the quality of the rice, which was well seasoned, firm and served at room temperature.

The chopped scallop roll also had an excellent ratio of filling to rice. The combination of silky scallops and creamy mayonnaise felt luxurious on the tongue. Each roll was so plump that we could only finish one. I would order it again. The negitoro roll was also generously packed with minced tuna and green onion.

The cooked dishes were less impressive. The assorted tempura was fairly average, and the shrimp and vegetables were surprisingly small. Perhaps I’m being harsh because I usually order tempura from Sukiyaki House, where it is consistently excellent, with its light and lacey batter and long, elegant vegetables.

The Ebi Mayo ($11.95) didn’t travel particularly well either. The coating had hardened, while liquid had collected at the bottom of the takeout container. This may be one of those dishes that needs to be eaten immediately at the restaurant. This is another dish that Sukiyaki House excels in, with its crunchy, munchy shrimp morsels.

I couldn’t believe how much food was left over. By the time I returned home late that night, however, every last scrap was gone. Thanks, Narc, for the lovely feast. For fresh nigiri, plump scallop rolls and a mega-generous lunch special, Hitting the Sauce gives Mega Sushi two phat thumbs up.

Japanese · Restaurants · Seafood · Sushi · Vancouver/Richmond

Richmond, BC: Sushi Hachi Restaurant

November 29, 2019April 12, 2026 Hitting the SauceLeave a comment

I booked L’s birthday dinner at Sushi Hachi Japanese Restaurant. Run by a husband and wife team, Sushi Hachi is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Reservations are required, as the small restaurant is perpetually booked.

Sign

I invited N and Beep Beep to L’s dinner. N asked if she could bring her new gentleman friend A-OK. When I spoke to the owner to request an extra seat, I confided to the owner that I was excited to dine at his restaurant. He sounded pleased, but cautiously mentioned that he only serves sushi and sashimi. There is no teriyaki or tempura on the menu. I told him that was fine with me, as I’ve been to Japan before and I’m aware of the difference between real sushi and the North American version. He sounded worried and humbly stated that he didn’t want to get my my hopes up, as his sushi is not as good as what you can get in Japan. For this post, let’s listen to “Saw You in a Dream” by The Japanese House.

When we were seated, L commented that he knew Sushi Hachi was a good restaurant based on the tantalizing smells wafting from the kitchen and sushi bar. Unfortunately, the description of the food we ate won’t be as detailed as I would have preferred. Beep Beep and I were too busy sizing up A-OK. I usually hate the guys N dates, but A-OK was a refreshing break from the norm.

A-OK and I shared a bottle of cold sake – Hakutsuru Nigori ($17). The flavour was floral, lush and milky in texture. L, Beep Beep and N refrained from drinking alcohol. Beep Beep was driving. L wanted a good sleep. N just came back from her second ayahuasca trip in Peru. Her shaman said she could eat seafood again, but not alcohol, meat or soy sauce. I asked A-OK if the next time, he could slip the shaman an extra twenty bucks so N could eat meat again.

miso soup

The Miso Soup ($2) was subtly different from the norm. I read in other reviews that the female owner makes her fish miso in small batches. Each bowl contained a collarbone.

nigiri

I ordered four Chef’s Special ($120) – a selection of ten pieces of nigiri and tuna maki. We were given a description of each fish, but I didn’t have time to write any of the names of the fish down.

The balance of vinegar and sugar in the rice was perfect. The temperature of the rice was neither cool or warm. I noticed the rice was a bit softer than I’m used to. L and I liked the proportion of fish to rice.

piece

My favourite piece was the bright white glossy piece – it was both crunchy and creamy. The simplicity of garnishes on the nigiri still let the freshness of the seafood shine through.

The scallops were tender and sweet. My favourite version was the chopped scallop. There’s just something so winning about the combination of delicate scallops and the rich egg flavor of velvety Kewpie mayonnaise.

I enjoyed crunching into the raw prawn ($3.50). Cold, sweet and with a texture that was both gooey and crunchy. The uni ($4.00) was the most buttery and briniest I’ve ever had. I’d order this again. L ordered an extra piece of his favourite sushi – tako ($2.50).

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L noted he’s never tried so many pieces of white fish, each with its own unique flavour. All the seafood tasted pure and clean.

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A-OK and N ordered a plate of Toro ($18) and Sockeye Salmon ($14). No comment as we didn’t try any of it.

A-OK also ordered the Grilled Squid ($10.50). The squid was tender and the juices were reminiscent of charcoal. This dish was simple and delicious.

grilled squid.jpg

N ordered a Tempura Roll ($6) because she was still hungry. She took one piece and announced she was full. I ate a couple of pieces. The roll was crunchy and warm from the tempura, made even tastier with a generous slathering of mayonnaise.

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N mentioned that while she can eat fish, she only wants to eat white fish. She felt that the fish with a pink tinge was closer to meat. I disagreed but didn’t feel the urge to argue with her. I’m not a hot shot shaman.

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My favourite part of the night was when L thanked the sushi chef. In Japan, locals go crazy over my husband’s enunciation while I am generally frowned upon for breaking protocol. After L broke out his perfect Japanese, the chef’s expression didn’t change and he simply nodded to L. When I went to thank the sushi chef in English, he beamed and bestowed me with a big grin. Take that L.

Sushi Hachi is a gem. Now that L and I are no longer going on our annual trip to Japan, we can look forward to dining at Sushi Hachi. I’m eager to try more of the adventurous seafood on their sushi menu. Hitting the Sauce gives Sushi Hachi two fat thumbs up.

Chinese · Dim Sum · Restaurants · Vancouver/Richmond

Richmond, BC: Shi-Art’s Dim Sum

November 24, 2019April 12, 2026 Hitting the Sauce1 Comment

To celebrate L’s birthday, I took him to Vancouver. My parents picked us up at the airport. When we exited her car, I mentioned to Boss Lady that she drives like Mario in Mario Kart. She rolled her eyes and retorted, “I know where I’m going. People just need to get out of my way.” For this post, let’s listen to “Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne.

I wanted to eat at Chef’s Tony or Continental Seafood Restaurant but Boss Lady vetoed my suggestions. She wanted Shi-Art Chinese Cuisine because there is plenty of parking. I informed Boss Lady that if we ordered before 11:00 a.m., we would receive 20% off our bill. She looked unimpressed and said she didn’t care about the discount.

One of the best dishes we tried was the Mushroom and Scallop Congee ($12.99). The scallops were plump and soft. The mushrooms were mild in flavour and silky in texture.

scallop

The congee was simple and delicious, cooked to a thick smooth consistency, lightly seasoned with salt. I added white pepper because it gives the soup a prominent peppery zip.

shrimp roll piece

My least favourite dish was the Steamed Shrimp Roll ($7.99). There was plenty of large shrimp in the roll, but the shrimp lacked a crunch to it. The noodles, even with the soy sauce, were bland.

I requested Beef Tendon Rice Rolls ($21.99). The beef was soft but parts of it were dry or fatty. L disagreed and said the beef was delicious. I enjoyed the rice rolls, which were seared on the edges with a noticeable charred wok hei aroma. The tendon was so gelatinous I didn’t have to chew. I prefer tendon with more of a chew to it.

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My mother mentioned several times that the beef tendon wasn’t as good as the other variation she normally orders at Shi-Art, the Braised Beef Brisket and Beef Tendon in Noodles ($21.99). She wrinkled her nose and added that she’s glad she tried this version as I requested it, but her dish was better.

pumplin

Our favourite dish was the Pan Fried Pumpkin with Spicy Salt ($12.99). Ludwig and Boss Lady mentioned this dish isn’t served at many Chinese restaurants. The pumpkin was lightly battered and crisp. Boss Lady enjoyed nibbling on the spicy seasoning of shrimp, fried garlic, green onions and hot peppers. I’d order this again.

shrimp balls

The House Steamed Shrimp Dumplings ($7.39) were tasty. The wrapper was dry and not overly steamed. The shrimp itself was large and plump. Far better than what I can get in Calgary.

roll

We all enjoyed the Preserved and Dried Meat on Chinese Donut Rice Rolls ($7.99). I liked the crunchiness of the deep-fried donut against the softness of the rice wrapper.

efu

L and Ludwig raved about the Seafood E-Fu Noodle ($18.99). The noodles were piping hot and lightly sauced. The fish, prawns, scallops and squid were nicely cooked. I’d order this again.

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Doug, who appeared to be the day time manager, was chatting up a storm with a customer sitting across from us. My mother interrupted his conversation to ask for some more tea. He didn’t like that one bit and he waved her away with his hand. He took a few steps away, reluctantly turned around and grabbed our tea pot. I saw him dawdle at the tea section and walked slowly back to our table. My father sat up erectly and politely thanked the Doug for the tea. I opened the lid to make sure there was no sign of tampering, like spit.

My mother was pissed. She said the manager is always rude to her and why is he always talking instead of working? I was surprised when ten minutes later, Boss Lady interrupted his conversation again to ask for the bill. Why didn’t she wave someone else over? Doug completely ignored her. Lucky for us, another server got us our bill. L jumped in and snatched the bill before my mother could pay. Our server was impressed. She said it’s rare that young men display such excellent manners. My parents both beamed with pride and chatted with our friendly server for a bit. Boss Lady asked L to ensure we received the 20% discount. With the discount, our bill was around $80.

L and I thought Shi-Art used a lot of MSG because we were both incredibly thirsty after eating there. L enjoyed the food. For the most part, the dishes were fresh, hot and tasty. I wouldn’t return. I want a dim sum experience without the theatrics. Perhaps the next visit, Boss Lady will permit me to pick the restaurant.

Happy Hour · Restaurants · Seafood · Vancouver/Richmond

Vancouver, BC: Fanny Bay & Oyster Bar

August 17, 2019April 29, 2026 Hitting the SauceLeave a comment

L asked me what I wanted to do on our free afternoon. Walk along the seawall! As we strolled over to English Bay, he complained that I walk too fast and said that I was going to blow out my hip. You don’t have to worry about me L, I have strong child bearing hips.

seawall

When we arrived at our destination, he wanted to rest on the bench. L mentioned he felt like oysters and if we left now, we could make it in time for happy hour. I could tell Old Man L was tired, so I sat and admired the water for a moment more before we turned around and headed over to Fanny Bay Oyster Bar & Shellfish Market . For this post, let’s listen to “Sweet About Me“ by Gabriella Cilmi.

Happy hour is daily from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Select wines are $7, house beer is $5, and featured oysters are $1.50 or $2.25. The west coast oyster was the Sun Seeker (Floating Bag – 18 months old, Okeover, BC) and the east coast oyster was Totten Virginia (Beach Grown – 3 years old, Totten Inlet, WA).

I wish I got the name of our server – a young man that spun our plate of oysters around in a circle and said it reminded him of the Game of Thrones introduction. His energy and attentive service, paired with the sublimely fresh oysters, made this visit exceptional.

bubbles

I tried a glass of the Sauvignon Blanc (Open Estates, Okanagan) and for $7 it was fine. However, I preferred the sparkling Pinot Grigio ($10, Most Wanted, Hungary) as it was simple, light and refreshing.

plate 1

Each oyster was perfectly shucked – there was no grit or shell in it. When you pulled the oyster out of the shell, it made the sound a cork makes when you pull it out of a wine bottle.

shell

L and I prefer west coast oysters, but we enjoyed the Totten Virginia ($2.25). The oyster tasted a bit like celery. Compared to the Summit Seeker, the east coast oyster was cleaner with a crunchier texture.

shell 2

The Sun Seeker ($1.50) was firm and sweet, with a salty finish. The center of the oyster was cool on my tongue. These were chubby, creamy oysters. I was ecstatic.

beauty

The oyster was so big, I had to use my oyster fork to pull it out of the shell. Holding the oyster on the fork reminded me of a poached egg. The flavor was so good, I didn’t feel the need for anything but a little lemon and horseradish. The fresh horseradish was feathery soft – it added a bit of heat and chew to the oyster. I ate as slowly as possibly to enjoy the flavor as long as possible.

The oysters were so enjoyable, I would be happy to return for non-happy hour prices ($3.50 each, Shuckers’ Dozen $39). I plan on visiting my parents again in November. I’ll definitely come by again to get my oyster fix. Hitting the Sauce gives Fanny Bay Oyster Bar two fat thumbs up.

For more travel picks, check out my running list of restaurants worth the detour, by city.