Bistro Taiyo Japanese Restaurant in Nanaimo

321 Wesley St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T5, Canada

★★★★★
(393 reviews)
Categories: Authentic Japanese restaurant Japanese restaurant Sushi restaurant

About

Chef-owned outpost providing an extensive menu of classic Japanese fare in a convivial atmosphere.

Website
bistrotaiyo.com
Address
321 Wesley St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T5, Canada
Plus Code
5375+XC Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
Time Zone
America/Vancouver

Business Hours

Monday
12–3 PM – 4:30–8 PM
Tuesday
12–3 PM – 4:30–8 PM
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
12–3 PM – 4:30–8 PM
Friday
12–3 PM – 4:30–8 PM
Saturday
12–3 PM – 5–8 PM
Sunday
Closed

Services

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Great tea selection
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Healthy options Small plates Spirits Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating
Amenities
Toilets
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking Parking

Photos

Reviews

4.6
★★★★★
393 reviews

Most Mentioned

bento box (23) atmosphere (15) salmon (12) town (8) spicy (8) island (7) broth (6) green tea (6) tonkatsu (5) curry (5)
5 stars
313
4 stars
38
3 stars
18
2 stars
10
1 stars
14
★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Sat at the bar and chatted with the owner. Very talented Japanese-Canadian sushi expert!! The toro Nigiri and avocado tempura, and Salmon hand rolls are my favorite. Ate here three times this week

★★★
October 20, 2024

The pork was mostly fat, and the broth was quite salty. The texture of the ramen noodles was appropriate. We also had teriyaki salmon, which was overcooked and dry. Overall, the dishes were quite salty, and we all felt thirsty after the meal.

★★★★★
October 13, 2024

Wonderful little hole in the wall serving authentic Japanese meals. Hearty soups and delicious fried goods, and of course sushi! (Pictured is the Black Tonkotsu Ramen.)

★★★★★
June 14, 2024

Bistro Taiyo is the best, most authentic japanese food in Nanaimo, 100%! Sorry, we destroyed our food so no picture but trust me, it was amazing. Agadashi tofu and auburi sushi 5 are must tries :)

★★★
August 2, 2023

The food was okay, but the fish wasn’t fresh at all. The service is what you normally expect. To be honest the dessert was better than the actual dinner. I think it’s also the only Japanese restaurant in the surrounding area. I also expected it to be better seeing that the place online says “authentic” Japanese restaurant.

★★★★
June 4, 2023

Interiors are old-trodden and worn out but the food is delicious and great service. Food: 4/5 We got tofu yakisoba, vege sushi (replaced prawn in crunchy dynamite roll and dynamite roll with yam and asparagus tempura) and vegan ramen. The yakisoba and vege sushi were amazing! Very nice and flavourful. The sushi had a nice warm crunch and good smooth flavours of avacado and were overall well balanced. The vegan ramen was not impressive. It had a burnt undertone to it. Ambiance: 3/5 Very casual and worn out ambiance. Definitely not a fine dining spot but ok for a quick family meal. Service: 5/5 The Japanese service is stellar! They kept a high chair ready as we’d reserved a spot with a toddler. They were welcoming to our dietary preferences and also have a free cheese cake for our parents anniversary!

★★★★★
October 19, 2022

Real home authentic Japanese food with a touch of upscale. I prefer this place over the more popular and expensive Nori. They make the food fresh, delicious and a touch fancy but not over the top. Prices for the quality is good and the service was friendly. The only minor annoyance is finding parking but it's worth it. Overall I recommend this place over Nori for Japanese cuisine.

★★★★★
March 17, 2022

Stopped by for an early dinner on Tues. the shop was kinda busy for a tues dinner. Service was excellent. Our waitress the short hair lady was very friendly, helpful, positive and attentive. The other lady was also nice. I think the owner and manager did an excellent job hiring and training your staff! Food wasn’t the best but good and affordable. We ordered Beef Udon (6/10), original tonkatsu (8/10), BBQ squid (highlight of the meal - highly recommended!), vanilla ice cream and special green tea tiramisu (7/10). May be back when we visit Nanaimo next time and will definitely recommend to my friends! Great job guys

★★
December 21, 2024

We have been going to Bistro Taiyo for about five years and the food has always been great until this year. A few months ago I went in for sushi takeout, and the salmon was decidedly not fresh. I thought it was only one bad experience, but yesterday I went again and the salmon was again not fresh. Raw fish has to be fresh or it ruins the whole experience. I am sorry to write a bad review, but I paid over a hundred dollars and this is not acceptable.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Really enjoyed my visit to Bistro Taiyo. I had curry Katsu and it was excellent. Service and atmosphere were also perfect. I highly recommend this establishment.

Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Extremely small pieces of sashimi. Their 6 pieces equal 2 pieces of a good sushi restaurant. The rolls were small and mediocre. And eventhough it wasnt busy at all, I waited 20 mins between my sashimi and the rolls to arrive. They also charged me for the tea. Ive never had a sushi restaurant charge me for tea. Very bad experience.

★★★★★
November 22, 2024

Excellent Sushi ! Nice location

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Authentic Japanese restaurant with cozy vibes. We ordered their house roll, phillidalphia roll, chirashi bowl, karage, and green tea cheese cake. Every item was so delicious! Would definitely come back here again.

October 22, 2024

rude staff, rancid smell and fruit flies everywhere.

★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Unfortunately their house sushi roll crunchy tuna was disappointing and not worth $14, with mushy rice and tuna that was overcooked, but the ramen and the appies were great! I had the Yuzu Shio ramen and it was delicious :) overall a but expensive but not bad

★★★★
October 22, 2024

Vegetarian options: There s many types of food for vegetarians (Ramen, Bento etc)

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Ramen was one of the best Ive ever had. Definitely coming back.

October 22, 2024

overcooked and fishy salmon, the worst sushi ever, not worthy. Very disappointed.

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

It was delicious

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Staffs are kind, atmosphere is cozy and nice, and the food is awesome!

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Stopped for a bowl of ramen and takeout sushi for the road. Almost decided to move to town when the bowl arrived. Almost turned around when we ate the sushi. Major league yum. 10/10 would slurp again.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

A Fricken delight

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

I have been coming to bistro Taiyo for a decade now and they have always had fast and friendly service but more importantly amazing food. Greats spot for date night or a fun time with friends as it is located just a short walk from the heart of downtown. 10/10 guys keep up the great work!

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

This place is a staple for me. My whole family loves it. The food is always delicious and fresh. The service is always friendly and on it. The atmosphere is classy and comfortable. Go check it out!

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Authentic Japanese food in Old City Quarter! Tonkastu ramen is fantastic! Daily Bento box is amazing too! Food was served fast.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

We had a nice lunch, quick service, friendly staff and yummy food :)

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

I had the Taiyo Gozen set and it just hits the spot!! Really great service here! Would highly recommend:)

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

The service and food are great. It tastes just like the sushi I eat in Japan, and it makes me miss Japan. The best sushi in Nanaimo, real Japanese food. This is a recommended shop!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Good Ramen

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Amazing sushi.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

This is the first time in a long time that Ive had good sushi. Fresh and tasty, no blended meat

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Wonderful food, not long wait times and amazing service!! Would highly recommend!!

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

The food is very good two orders made my whole family full. Vegetarian options: Yummy Dietary restrictions: Great Parking: Lots Kid-friendliness: They have special bowls and plates for children s. Wheelchair accessibility: Awesome

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Love the cold tantan mazesoba! A great takeout option too.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

We had their cold tantan mazesoba special. It was delicious!! The perfect dish for a hot day. This is definitely one of our favorite restaurants in Nanaimo :)

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

Its our first time to dine here We enjoy our food and the speed of Service is great Definitely We will come back again Food : 5/5

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Great food and service

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

best ramen in town hands down, noodles cooked to perfection. With delicious broth Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Had the smoked salmon and shrimp salad! Very good and fresh...definately recommend it to people! Vegetarian options: Asparagus in batter... Parking: Just keep driving around and something with turn up! Kid-friendliness: My grandson had his 11th birthday here and he had a birthday cake shaped rice and salmon and veggies...they made it special for him Wheelchair accessibility: Ground level

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Exceeded expectations and tasted good. The staff are also very patient!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

The Lunch bento box was on point!

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

My favourite Japanese restaurant in Nanaimo! Vegetarian options: Lots of vegetarian options Food : 5/5 |

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Crunchy rolls are a solid !

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

This is my favorite sushi place in Nanaimo. The Aburi Sushi 5 is unreal!

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Very nice food. Had the bento box special. Would recommend.

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

My favourite place. Always so good.

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Amazing 5/5

★★★★
June 22, 2024

Kid-friendliness: Great service - very friendly atmosphere. Food

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Kid-friendliness: They were very receptive to have a toddler dining with us and were quick to provide appropriate seating, cutlery, and drinkware. Their childrens menu had a good variety of food and kept with the restaurants cuisine. Highly recommend if you frequently done with small children. Food

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Great hidden gem in a beautiful area of the city! Would recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 22, 2024

Favorite sushi in nanaimo not the fanciest but very concise and thought out dishes with great ratios and freshness will always recommend to anyone in nanaimo looking for sushi

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Great food, i really liked the server there because they were really friendly and came to check in with us a lot

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Great service and great food!

★★★★
June 22, 2024

Delicious sushi and great service! Vegetarian options: Lots of options! Food : 4/5 |

★★★★
June 22, 2024

We were on the hunt for ramen, found this little spot and the ramen was delicious!! Thanks Taiyo for a great dinner and service! Kid-friendliness: They had everything to accommodate a little eater and were very playful and sweet with my child.

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Food and service are excellent.

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

This is a great place to go for sushi in Nanaimo. The food and service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Ordered through UberEats- piping hot and ABSOLUTELY DIVINE!

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

In love with this place. It has a relaxed vibe and excellent food. The black ramen is delicious!! Also very reasonably priced lunch bentos! My favourite spot right now

Local Guide
March 22, 2024

Vegan soups avoided being too salty

March 22, 2024

They do not let guide dogs in, or assist dogs, tell all your disability friends

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Amazing authentic Japanese in Nanaimo. Best Ramen in town and great sushi. Been going here for years and a top choice when craving ramen or sushi.

Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Spicy dynamite rolls $11. 95, over priced for small pieces, not worth the money!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

Best ramen in town! The broth is rich and full of flavour. Noodles were cooked perfectly. They have a very generous portion so come hungry! Had some sushi to start and the rice was cooked perfectly and the sauces really complemented the different fish.

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 22, 2024

I was so stocked to find a real Japanese restaurant operated by Japanese staff in Nanaimo. They are tucked away in the alley behind La Stella which is also my favourite. They offer authentic Japanese food with excellent customer service. I had nabeyaki udon and it was perfect for the day you want to be cozy and very flavourful. They close bit earlier than other restaurants so check their business hour first before you go. They also have some bar seats if you dine in solo!

★★★★★
January 22, 2024

The ramen was . Great service, great pricing. Look forward to going back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Bistro Taiyo is consistently delicious! The customer service is just like in Japan Our sushi tray for 3 is great quality, their sushi rice is always made perfectly. The dinner bento we chose was exactly what we expected! We love the vegetable tempura, the asparagus was so yummy! Thank you so much Bistro Taiyo for always providing delicious food! I love the staffs wonderful smiles (I can see it even behind the masks )

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Yummers

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

If I could I would give Bistro Taiyo more than a five star review. The service was exquisite. Polite, efficient, and friendly people. Very quick service. I have eaten sushi at every place in town and I like this sushi the most. The salmon quality was tender and delicious and every ingredient was abounding in flavour. We left feeling lighter and less sleepy because that is how clean the food feels. Watch out for how hot the spicy tiger salmon roll is - it is actually very hot and not at all diluted for a western palate - sooo good though! It is truly an authentic Japanese food place with little westernized elements to it which in that sense makes the food stand out from any other Japanese restaurant. Definitely better than Nori. Nanaimo is blessed to have this place.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Excellent flavors. We ordered the Daily Bento Box and it was amazing! The California Roll had a very different (better) flavor. Comes with hot miso soup and we ordered green tea. No photo this time, sorry.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Their food is like a hug in bowl!! I had the tonkotsu black and gyoza. Its a cozy little space in the old city quarter, the service is quick and the staff is amazing. It was my first time here and the server helped me understand the menu and make an informed choice on what to order. It is a bit pricey, but their portions are big and you leave with a full tummy and a full heart! I would definitely recommend this place and would certainly go back!

December 22, 2023

As a business owner my self, I really shy away from writing reviews that are not warranted. I had family over from the mainland for Easter long weekend, as usual when they come over we always order take our sushi from one of our regular spots. Unfortunately both places were closed for whatever reason. Brass tacks we decided to try this place out spent 200 plus hard earned dollars on this place. Hands down worst sushi my self and the entire family has ever had people were brushing theyre teeth after. Very fishy smell to the fish , presentation was lower then the baremin and proportions are microscopic compared to what 227 dollars worth of sushi should look like. I hope the establishment takes heed to this OR the next family that tries the take out. Come on how as a Japanese restaurant do you even put this on the street as Sushi. Go eat at a real restaurant and learn something.

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Called ahead to ensure they could accommodate celiac. They said No problem and said they have a large selection of gluten free that is safe. 5 minutes before reservation time they called to say it got busy , and they could no longer accommodate us. Really bad! Is it abnormal for a restaurant to get busy around 6pm? While celiac takes some extra effort I m pretty sure people ordering from the gluten free selections also don t want gluten contamination. We went to Gina s, and they were great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Excellent food at reasonable prices, with a great atmosphere. The staff work hard and are very friendly, greeting each guest as they enter. The food quality has been very consistent since I started eating here in the 2000s. Highly recommend this hole in the wall in the Old City! Kid-friendliness: I have brought children here many times and the staff have always been very welcoming.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Im from out of province. Was recommended on Reddit as the best sushi in Nanaimo - did not disappoint. Supper was so good, we went back for lunch the next day! Excellent Sashimi, great presentation of sushi. Tamago is out of this world.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The best Japanese izakaya on the Vancouver Island. Very authentic. For example , curry rice is not your typical California rice . It is from Nigatta. Sushi is somehow fresher than Victoria

December 22, 2023

So disappointed. Worst sushi ever and I could get way better sushi at Coop in Calgary.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Best sushi in nanaimo. Authentically Japanese. Great service.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Best Japanese food in Nanaimo! From sushi to tempura to nihon shu to dishes I can t find in Vancouver like ten zaru udon, it s always a delight to eat here. Thank you Taka and Rie!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

My go to place when I miss the food from home.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Really delicious food! Service was fast, a really great menu, and reasonable prices. A member of our group wanted a bento box but needed a substitution on one of the items and they were accommodating and helpful. I had the vegan ramen and it was very flavourful. Vegetarian options: Tons of vegetarian and vegan options on the menu

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

All the best restaurants in Nanaimo are on Wesley St! Bistro Taiyo is our go-to MOST FAVOURITE Japanese place in town. We take all our friends here who visit from out of town. Our young kids also love it. The fish is high quality and ocean-wise. The service is fantastic. We love the Ramen options, especially the vegetarian ones. Lunch is fun too, they always have great specials. I wish I could eat here every night!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Food is always excellent. High quality sushi, very delicious bowls as well, try the salmon one. Take a look, these folks are nice people as well

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I had the vegan tantan ramen, it was the best ramen I have ever had. My friend said the chirashi don was exceptionally good too. Wonderful place, highly recommended.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Amaaazing sushi, the rainbow roll tuna and salmon just melted in my mouth and the crunchy dynamite roll had super thick shrimp and the tails werent burnt or overdone like a lot of places do. I tried the green tea cheesecake and it was also amazing! One of my new favourites for sure. Super friendly staff as well. Ill be coming back! Parking: Angle parking spots along the road, but full around dinner time

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Ramen is highly recommended!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

A little hidden gem in the Old City Quarter of Nanaimo. The food we had was fresh and really tasty. The waiters were all very professional and it was surprising how quickly we got our food. Definitely going back when were looking for Sushi in Nanaimo

★★★
December 22, 2023

The ramen is so good, but 2 the slices of chasu pork are SO thin, they literally couldnt make it any thinner if they tried without it falling apart.

December 22, 2023

Food was mediocre. Small portion size. I was definitely expecting more for the price.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Really good food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

A Hidden Ramen Gem! Bistro Taiyo Japanese Restaurant has some of the Best Ramen Ive had in a long time. With a Cute, very Warm and Cozy Atmosphere, Bistro Taiyo feels like your in a Ramen shop in Japan! Would highly recommend going here! The whole menu is awesome! Thanks Bistro Taiyo the Experience!

★★
December 22, 2022

Unfortunately we didnt have the same experience as other reviewers. While the staff were super friendly and the location is quite convenient, the food was disappointing. Its didnt seem that fresh and the Nori was a little chewy. We really wanted to like this place.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Excellent Bento box, ramen and donburi! Super friendly and attentive service. Highly recommended for a great meal.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Great place to eat. Great atmosphere in the restaurant and the food is always good. Service is good as well.

Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Closed on Wednesdays and the schedule wasnt updated on Google maps. We drove to get some food only to see closed doors.

December 22, 2022

In fairness I showed up at 2:45 not knowing that they close at 3pm. But the place was packed and there was one table left for 2. I m really surprised they wouldn t take us. Lame. Can t comment on food they would allow us to try.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Best ramen Ive had in Nanaimo! Try it with BBQ Pork and an Egg!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Excellent sushi and cozy restaurant with friendly staff!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Always appreciate these guys.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Amazing food and service! Best Ramen Ive ever eaten!

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

My favorite Japanese restaurant in Nanaimo

★★★★
December 22, 2022

This shi bussin, if ya tryna get a good ah meal I would recommend. 10/10 shi fir

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Highly recommend!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Authentic Japanese food. Try the spicy ramen or bento box. Always pleasing service.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Great food crafted with care. I had a Don dish with a beer some green tea. It was delicious. Green tea had a wonderful depth to it. Great job team! I will definitely be back.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Really delicious food and a great selection. The staff were super friendly and the inside was really nice. I would definitely come back!

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

The noodles are ok. The seats are cramped and the lighting is bad. The air is stuffy and the service attitude is bad.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Love this place. The takoyaki is delicious, my favourite ramen in town by far, and the sushi is always great too!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Exceptional sushi in the Old City Quarter. Highly recommended. Worth it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

The sockeye salmon in the salmon bowl here was the best, most flavorful salmon Ive ever eaten

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Best ramen in Nanaimo, hands down. Great noodle texture, silky and full broth, pork was melt in your mouth delicious. Small restaurant that books up very quickly, so we recommend making a reservation far in advance instead of walking in. They usually have patio tables as well in the summer months. Chicken karaage was very good too. Will be back to try more dishes!

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

this place was amazing! lovely service and super good food. good portions which are very light and nice music in the background. would come again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Very good service, and foods were good too. It was my first time here, one thing made me think I will visit back because usually Japanese restaurants just have kids plates but they even have kids water cups with little straws and kids chopsticks. Very thoughtful. Parking: Street parking Kid-friendliness: They offer kids cup, utensils, plate and bowl.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Im from the lower mainland.... I do not live local here. EXCELLENT PLACE !!!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner there. The menu is quite extensive, so we opted for a two-person combo, which is kind of a best-of selection, and it was a good choice. While our little one happily tucked into pork katsu-don, we enjoyed very tasty miso soup, two cold starters which were very yummy, followed by a big bowl of edamame beans to nibble on, then fresh and delicious tempura, and finally a platter of different types of sushi (several kinds of California roll and three types of nigiri). Portion sizes were just right, even though we were hungry. All this was washed down with a big bottle of Japanese beer (the little one just had water, calm down, everyone). Our waiter was very attentive, yet not at all overbearing, and we had a wonderful time. The place was busy and we were glad to have made a reservation. Spotless rest rooms! Outright recommendation!

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Im from Vancouver and had dinner here while on vacation. The food was delicious, I loved the dessert especially! (I accidentally left my purse at the restaurant, the owner was very kind and mailed it to me, thank you!!!)

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Alas their hours are incorrect. Drove here from Victoria only to find it closed until 4:30pm

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Great food made to order!!! Stopped in for a quick dinner and was not disappointed at all. Food was amazing and full of flavour while portions sizes were fairly big and prices competitive. Great menu selection from sushi and sashimi to udon and ramen noodles and katsu and rice. Excellent service, super friendly and professional as well accommodating.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Good broth, good noodles like in Vancouver

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Food was amazing, service was amazing and decent serving for price. The only thing is the restaurant was very warm and it didnt seem like they had air conditioning. Make sure to make a reservation as it fills up quick.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

As someone who lived in Japan, this is truly authentic Japanese fare. Excellent. Great service, great food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

This place has the best Ramen I have found on the Island so far. Great Japanese appetizers and Sake cocktails too. Nice atmosphere, quiet spot for a date if you actually want to talk to eachother.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

The best japanese restaurant in Nanaimo for 20 years, wonderful people, great service, terrific menu, cute location in the Old City Quarter. Vegetarian options: Great place for vegetarians, theres even vegetarian ramen!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Loved Bistro Taiyo, the food is excellent and the staff friendly. Cant wait to go back. Parking: Street parking

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

It really is hidden away and from outside it is very unassuming. Even when you first enter it is not a smart restaurant. Once you start to receive the food you realise that you are getting a very genuine experience. We had a beginners set sushi and the Oyako Don (chicken, rice, egg, onion composition). Both dishes were excellent. So glad we were recommended it by our B&B host, otherwise we would never have found out about it.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

I had a toro nigiri and chicken udon. Toro is very good and the udon is so deliciousone of my favorites i have ever had. Highly recommend this place. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Their sushi is amazing! Taste very good, better than all Japanese restaurants in town. Vegetarian options: Ramen, sushi and deep fried veggies!

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

After having ramen in Japan I have been trying to find ramen that compares to that experience. After eating here I have found what I was looking for. Thank you Bistro Taiyo. The best ramen in Nanaimo.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Always good, Ive eaten here a fair amount and the food and service is always good.

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Authentic Japanese cuisine. The sushi is wonderful and consistent. They have the best Ramen Ive ever had - try the spicy Tantan ramen! They have a small plates menu as well, which is great for sharing. Ive only had good experiences and the staff are exceptionally friendly.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

This restaurant is amazing! The service was spectacular and was waitress was very accommodating and sweet. I ordered the bento box and I was shocked with how much I loved it. Everything inside of it was delicious. Unfortunately I did not take a photo, but it looked beautiful as well! I would highly recommend eating here if you re looking for some high quality Japanese food! Great prices too.

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

This might be my new favorite sushi restaurant. Everything is prepared to perfection, so tasty!

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Always fresh food and great service!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

It appears to me that they are starting to focus more on Ramen, which is awesome news! The Tonkotsu Black had a delicious broth and was methodically packaged for my take-out. Look forward to when you have a couple more add-ins (Corn, bamboo Shoots). Look forward to eating in soon.

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

We went for the ramen and it was excellent!! We ordered chicken karaage for an appetizer and then had tsukemen ramen (my forever favourite). The restaurant is lovely and the staff and friendly, kind and quick. Its cute, clean and well organized for these times and the food is perfect comfort. Cant wait to go back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Delicious and great atmosphere!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Visitor from Vancouver. Really good Japanese food!!! Happy to find this place and will be back again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

So delicious and excellent service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Amazing food and ambience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

i love this place so much. the bento box with salmon was absolutely amazing. the curry here is really good too, reminds me of the casual diners back in japan.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

I have eaten at Bistro Taiyo for 10 years and I have truly never been disappointed. Food is always fresh, delicious, high quality, reasonably priced, and served by an exceptional team. Couldnt recommend the more!!

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

They have the best oyaku don in town!!!!!! Love it!!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Best Sushi in Nanaimo

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

The absolute best Japanese food that Nanaimo has to offer. Oishi.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

This place is phenomenal. I ve only stopped by a few times when visiting Nanaimo but I keep coming back here because they have some of the best Japanese food I ve had. From tonkatsu to nigri to sushi to gomaae to agedashi tofu, the food is an exceptional quality and bursting with flavour. Do yourself a favour and eat here!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Amazing vegan ramen. Best Ive ever had. Ill be back for more! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff, would recommend as a nice date spot.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Wonderful service. Such lovely and friendly staff!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Best Ramen in Nanaimo!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Incredible food and very nice waitress. I d eat there again !

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Always a great experience at Bistro Taiyo! Patio has expanded during COVID. Great atmosphere, tons of amazing menu options (sushi, Izakaya, bento, and more), but best of all is the amazing service. Always super friendly. One of my favourite places in town. Below is a picture of the $20 dinner bento, which includes a starter miso soup, side of rice, green salad, and wakame (seaweed) salad. I chose the potato croquette, sashimi sampler, and grilled salmon.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Really delicious food and friendly staff. A great choice if you are looking for a meal in the area.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Great experience! We didn t have a long time before taking the ferry back to Vancouver, so we stopped by for a quick lunch. The waitress was super nice, the service was fast and the food: perfect! The tuna (in my tuna don) was tasty and perfectly cut. Would go back anytime

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Food was good, the only thing I didnt like was the spring roll. Service was polite and quick. Restaurant gets quite busy.

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Very nice sushi and friendly service. I ordered (for pick-up) the begginer set and the nigiri set. It was fresh and tasty. If you are hungry, order an extra roll or appetizers.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

I ordered the new (vegan) Vagen Ramen - spicy. It was delicious!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Our new favourite Sushi restaurant in Nanaimo! Friendly staff, great service and fantastic food! I can not rave enough about the amazing kids menu too! My two girls are now Sushi fans and using chop sticks! Thank you x

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Great authentic Japanese food. Had the dinner Bento box. Friendly staff.

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Always friendly service but seems to be a little disappointing the last few times.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Terrific food at a very reasonable price.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Really nice staff, and great ramen!

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Amazing sushi! I lived in Toronto before moving to Nanaimo and wasn t able to find sushi that lived up to what they had back home until I found this place! Most of the sushi places I ve tried in Nanaimo make their California roll with mashed up imitation crab and mayo and basically no avocado or cucumber. Taiyo actually makes it the right way with the chunk of crab, avocado, cucumber so good! The rest of the rolls were also delicious and fresh including dynamite roll, avocado roll and crunchy dynamite roll. If you love sushi this is the best in the city!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Very good

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Awesome food overall, brilliant idea on their menu to list what dishes had raw fish as we had kids in our party. The place deserves all the positive recognition, no doubt!

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Its hard to describe sushi when its the way its supposed to be. Its just right, from fresh flavour combinations to textures, portions, and mouth feel. You know immediately when its wrong. Taiyo gets it right. Im so happy to have found your little corner in the old quarter. Dami has always been my favorite for solid, consistently high quality sushi in town, but I think you may have moved ahead of them for me. The nigiri and cones set the standard for me at any sushi place and I do think you do both of these the best. The rice is perfectly cooked, the fish is delicate and everything tastes balanced. Love it.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Really good food. Recommend the beginners sushi and the curry sauce is divine

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Very very nice welcome. The sushi was fresh and excellent. Very nice recommendation from our server to help us choose. Very fast service. Family atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Had meal for two and it was great food, great service and a great deal. Definitely recommend. I will be back!

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Bistro Taiyo is always great! Wonderful staff and wonderful food!! Always kind!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Terrific sushi place in Nanaimos old district. The fish in the sushi rolls tasted fresh and the miso soup was very tasty, especially on a cold, rainy day. Very reasonably priced. Tons of gluten free options too. I particularly recommend the scallop mayo roll, as it was one of the best rolls Ive ever had.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Always a great experience and delicious food. Im happy because I can eat delicious Japanese food without having to go to Japan

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

Just my favourite place ever. Have been going there for almost 20 years. Lovely food and absolutely the best staff ever!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Finally it was open and I was able to try. Did not disappoint! Attentive chefs. Sat at the bar lots of room and able to watch them create the sushi rolls. great sushi and great downtown location.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Nice little lunch place . Had Bentos and a few nigiri. It was good.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Best ramen in Nanaimo for sure. If you want a bowl of soup to warm you up this winter they only serve it on Saturday lunch and Sundays. Be careful, weve been back every weekend since we found it! Try the tantan if you like some spice, its delicious. Solid service too.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Havent been here for awhile. Was very pleased with it. Affordable lunch menu, everything fresh. Sadly,Ramen only on weekends.Excellent service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Special Saturday Ramen was delicious

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Lovely sushi as art thanks bc

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Incredibly friendly staff and excellent food! If you are in Nanaimo you must try this exemplary Japanese Restaurant!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

So good

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

The sushi was fresh and served promptly. The interior was bright and clean. The staff was courteous and attentive. I would return.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

The Tonkatsu Black Ramen was delicious, will definitely repeat!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Delicious Ramen and very friendly service. Party of four were all very satisfied with the variety, fast service and clean space. Doing a good job of not overcrowding, and cleaning menus etc.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Good food, good prices, great staff

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

It is not easy to eat such good ramen on the island. The price is moderate, the taste is authentic, and there are also sushi and various Japanese snacks. is a good choice

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

As someone who has lived in japan before, I can honestly say that this restaurant is both authentic and delicious. It has a very well curated menu with many interesting and amazing dishes. It is a must visit for anyone in nanaimo

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

I love this place the staff is wonderful and the food is amazing

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Really great sushi. Came by myself for a birthday date and the waitress gave me a special treat! Cute little restaurant, and the food is always fresh.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

What a wonderful place for all kinds of japanese food. This is a real Japanese restaurant and the best in Nanaimo. Some people know dont know this but its an open secret that their food and service is just way, way better than nori. I discovered taiyo many years ago and Im so glad I did. Its been my go-to place for sushi and ramen. You gotta visit them!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

The food is great, the sushi is very fresh. And the service is great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Great food, great service, and reasonable prices. Feels like a special hole in the wall type of place. We were coming through Nanaimo and Id come back here for take out or dine in every time we come through.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Super friendly staff and great food.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Delicious food, lovely staff, and great prices

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Best sushi place in Nanaimo! Great staff and mouthwatering food!

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

By far the best sushi in Nanaimo! Got to try the crunchy Cali roll.

★★★
December 22, 2020

Sushi was really good. I like that this sushi restaurant was actually own by Japanese people. Had the ramen was good. Noodles was cooked perfectly but the broth was salty

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

First time there . Im not a fan of sea weed they accomadted this by using soy paper instead . It was delicious. Will go back again some day for sure .