First time in North Vancouver and stumbled upon Hamaei while looking through restaurants close by. Absolutely could not find a better sushi spot, very happy!! If you want a lovely little spot, fast food that tastes great, this is the place! There are also seats by the chefs that you can watch them work. Amazing.

Excellent sushi. Come for very good sushi, traditional style. Staff are friendly. Ambiance is basic (small space), which is totally fine if you just want great food. Looked like a lot of locals and regulars were there when I visit. Apparently this place has been around for decades. I would highly recommend it. I personally had the deluxe chirashi and tried some of the premium sashimi like hamachi torro. Super fresh and good.

My experience at this restaurant was delightful. Everything, from the exceptional service to the high-quality food, impressed me. The staff were attentive and efficient, and the fish was incredibly fresh, which added to the authenticity of the Japanese cuisine. This place is a true find, and I’m already looking forward to visiting again on my next trip to North Vancouver.

The lunch special had a menu similar to Japanese lunch sets, which made me feel like I was in Japan. It was very delicious! I’d love to have it again when I visit Vancouver.

Just moved to North Vancouver and tried some Japanese food until I found this place. This place is certainly one of the top on my list. Have been here almost ten times within 2 months already. The quality and authenticity of the dishes are phenomenal. I have reviewed many good Japanese restaurants and this place would be at the top of my list. They also have Omakase where the chef chooses sushi for you, but I brought my wife here and decided to order what we like and we love it. The quality of the raw fishes and how the chef made the sushi was perfect. Also tried 3 types of rolls, Futomaki, Special Roll, and Double Dragon roll. Love all of them. Double dragon roll comes with Unagi (Japanese Eel) that was cooked so perfectly that it almost feels like it melts in my mouth. It was juicy and smelled just right. There hot/cold dishes are also good. I tried TenZaru Soba, Chicken Karaage, and Yakisoba. Love them all (again).

As a Japanese person and also having worked at a top notch sushi restaurant in Roppongi, I am very strict about the quality of sushi. I tried more than 10 places here in Vancouver but hamaei is truly the most authentic and the best!!!! (Also polite, friendly and professional staff ;)) My personal recommendation are toro taku, real crab roll, umejiso and hotate!

Would recommend getting a reservation! Walked in before 6pm on a Tuesday night and it was all full and had to takeout. Super fresh ingredients and very fairly priced! Tried the chirashi bowl and salmon aburi rolls and will go back to try more things

I can confidently say this is the number one sushi restaurant in Vancouver. This place always offers a sense of excitement with its selection of unique and seasonal fish you won’t easily find elsewhere. Every time I come here, I have to order the deluxe chirashi don — the sashimi is always incredibly fresh and pairs perfectly with the seasoned sushi rice. Their spicy sashimi has a flavor that’s truly one of a kind — it’s honestly what keeps me coming back. The sushi and hot food menu is extensive, and I’ve never had a single dish that disappointed me. Everything I’ve tried has been a hit. If you’re looking for authentic Japanese-style sushi, sashimi, and hot dishes, this is the place. On top of all that, the staff are genuinely kind, professional, and attentive. Highly recommend!