New Westminster’s sushi scene is solid; we’ve got chefs who’ve been making sushi for decades, and spots where fresh fish arrives daily. Over the years, we’ve become weekly regulars at a few of the spots on this list because, yes, they are that good!! From aburi oshi that rivals anything you’d find across the bridge to Japanese fusion that knows how to balance tradition with something new, the quality is here. Fresh fish, clean rice, fair prices. No pretense, no waiting lists. This is where we eat sushi in New Westminster.
Top-Rated Sushi Spots in New Westminster, BC
Kioku Kitchen (on Carnarvon Street, right beside New Westminster Station, Plaza 88) is a must-try! This Japanese fusion restaurant features authentic sushi prepared by a seasoned chef with over 20 years of experience. The tomato and shrimp udon and their salmon oshi are some of our personal faves!
Sanjo Sushi Asian Cuisine (546 6th St) is on 6th Street in Uptown and is one of those spots we can’t get enough of; the fish is fresh, and the portions are fair. They know what they’re doing here, and our go-to is the set dinners, like the Teishoku Mori, which gives you a bit of everything without ordering half the menu.
Victoria Sushi (15 E Royal Ave, Victoria Hill). This place has been here since at least 2014, and they’ve built a reputation on flame-seared box-pressed sushi that gives Vancouver sushi a run for its money, but at lower prices. We’ve grabbed takeout here after work and sat down for lunch on weekends. It’s one of those hidden gems that your friends will love you for showing them.
Best Value Sushi in New Westminster
Hyack Sushi (8th Street, about a block from the SkyTrain) is where we go when we want amazing sushi without spending a fortune. The fish is fresh, the portions are generous, and the prices are fair. The salmon bomb, the pink rolls, and the deep-fried poached egg are the go-to for us. Also, bring your student ID for 10% off.
our new favourite spot
Bluefin Sushi (319 East Columbia Street in Sapperton, directly across from Royal Columbian Hospital) is a cozy, family-run spot that’s big on value. They do Japanese fusion, think aburi nigiri, donburi bowls, and inventive new rolls that you will adore! We grab the seared salmon aburi and the chicken teriyaki when we want comfort food done right. Portions are great, the staff knows us by name, and it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a low-key dinner when you’re in the area.
Japanese Cafes & Desserts
Hiel Cafe (7885 6th Street, Burnaby (walkable from Uptown New Westminster) Technically just over the border in Burnaby, but close enough that we stroll over from Uptown when we need proper Japanese soufflé pancakes. These arrive tall, fluffy, and delicious; choose from matcha, tiramisu, or brown cheese. At $18 to $20 per order, it easily feeds two to four people, making the price quite reasonable. They also do excellent matcha lattes and other Japanese-inspired drinks. The patio is ideal for weekend brunch, though we’d suggest arriving early, because this spot gets busy fast on weekends.
An oldie but a goodie
Sushi Heaven (457 East Columbia Street, Sapperton) Established in 2002, Sushi Heaven is the oldest sushi spot still operating in New Westminster. Twenty-three years later, it’s still on the same strip on East Columbia next to Fratelli Bakery, serving reliable rolls and donburi to locals who’ve been coming here since Y2K. It’s not fancy, just a clean, straightforward room with a few tables, but the fish is some of the best in New West. The bentos are fairly priced. Closed Saturdays and Sundays, making this the perfect weekday spot.
Q&A
Which new west sushi spots offer alcoholic beverages?
Your best bet for sake and cocktails is Kushi Mura on Carnarvon Street; it has an izakaya with Japanese whisky, sake, and beer that pair perfectly with skewers. Kioku Kitchen, next to the station, also mixes incredible cocktails, including yuzu and matcha drinks that really just complete the meal. Most other spots on our list permit bring-your-own-wine.
What are some transit-friendly sushi spots?
Most are accessible by the SkyTrain; Kioku Kitchen and Kushi Mura are literally at New Westminster Station, no outdoor walking required. Hyack Sushi is a block from the 8th Street entrance. Victoria Sushi is a longer walk from the station up the hill, but doable. For Sushi Heaven or Bluefin in Sapperton, you’ll want to catch the 106 bus or drive; both are quite the trek from the train on foot.
Best spot for a date night?
Kioku Kitchen sets the mood with dim lighting, sharing plates, and cocktails. Book a table for two and order the tapas to split. Kushi Mura is also great for dates, offering a cozy izakaya vibe with sake flights and grilled skewers. If you want casual but good for conversation, stop in at Sanjo Sushi on 6th Street, which has booth seating that feels private without being formal.
