Steph Wan and Chef Kevin Lin has acquired full ownership of West Coast Japanese restaurant in Kerrisdale, Land & Sea, and celebrates with a rebrand to Okini Restaurant & Bar.
Inspired by their family roots in the Western Japan, Okini — meaning “great appreciation and gratitude” in the Kansai dialect embodies the essence of their culinary journey.
It is a heartfelt expression of their deep appreciation for their patrons, dedicated team, and the vibrant city of Vancouver.
Guests can still enjoy signature dishes like Salmon Soba featuring flame finished Ora King Salmon on chilled green tea soba with creamy sesame ponzu dressing, yuzu tobiko and ikura; Unagi Risotto with aburi freshwater eel on creamy mentaiko risotto with 63 degree egg, ikura and katsuobushi and Pork Tomahawk highlighting grilled bone-in Fraser Valley pork with karashi mustard peppercorn, togarashi and pepperonata.
In addition to the rebrand, Steph Wan and the bar team has carefully crafted a new selection of innovative and enticing cocktails that compliment their culinary offerings.
Taking inspiration from emotions associated with falling in love, highlights include: Supernatural Grace, a frozen martini served with king salmon ikura; Doki Doki with mezcal, green chartreuse, strawberry, lime, and shiso vermouth jellies; My Cup Of Tea with white rum, ceremonial matcha, orgeat, pineapple, lime, and edible sakura sake; and Accidental Eye Contact with vodka, yakult, drambuie, mint, grapefruit and red wine float.
Their curated wine and sake collection has also been expanded to offer a wider range of choices, allowing guests to explore and appreciate the nuances of West Coast Japanese pairings.
Okini is open for dinner from Tuesday to Sunday from 5 PM.
Guests can also enjoy their charming outdoor patio (weather dependent) for a delightful al fresco dining experience.
Reservations are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome.
For more information, please visit www.okiniyvr.com