With a plethora of non-Japanese run sushi restaurants around Vancouver, it’s always a pleasant surprise when we happen upon a truly authentic Japanese establishment. Visiting friends in Coquitlam, we all stopped by Fuji Sushi for a bite to eat. Located on Clarke Road (near Smith Ave), Fuji Sushi is owned and operated by a Japanese master sushi chef with over 30 years experience. Wow! We were already impressed. Pulling into its parking lot, the restaurant showed a humble exterior. The four of us were greeted by a friendly server, and seated promptly in a tight seating arrangement. Not uncomfortable though, just cozy.
You can tell a lot about a sushi restaurant by the kind of tea they serve. Don’t you hate those places that serve you old and stale, watered-down, luke-warm tea? Fuji Sushi’s Japanese green tea was crisp, freshly brewed, and über authentic.
As it was later in the evening we just ordered a few dishes to share. We started off with Zarusoba - chilled buckwheat noodles with dipping sauce and served with vegetable tempura. The tempura batter was nice and light, and non greasy. Prepared al dente, the soba noodles had a slight chewiness, making them enjoyable to eat.
We also ordered a variety of maki sushi, including a Tuna Roll, Salmon Roll, Dynamite Roll, and California Roll. These rolls were excellent. Rolled tightly so they did not fall apart when eating - unlike the often looser rolled sushi available at Hitoe Sushi. Fried Oysters sounded great on the menu, so we opted for a couple of them. Content with our decision, the breaded oysters were were fresh and well-sized.
If you’re comfortable being in a tight seating arrangement, then definitely check out Fuji Sushi for traditional and authentic Japanese eats!
