Mini-Review: Ezogiku Noodle Cafe

When I first moved to Vancouver in July 198, I briefly stayed downtown at The Residences on Georgia.

I didn't really enjoy the noise associated with living right downtown in one of Vancouver's busiest neighbourhoods, but I enjoyed living close to lots of great downtown restaurants.

One of my favourite weekend rituals during that brief time was waking up late and going to Ezogiku #2 at 1329 Robson Street right when it opened at 11a.m. to avoid the rush.

Flash forward to the present summer of 2002 and I have now discovered the pleasure of their main branch, Ezogiku #1 at 270 Robson.

It's like meeting a friend who's moved to a new country. Still the same, but at a different location!

Both feature the same great miso ramen and gyozas. The charsiu ramen (with nice tender BBQ pork) and the miso (great light flavour) ramen are still delicious. The ramen is still cheap (between $6.50 and $10) and the gyozas are still a great deal on the side (only $2.30 with an order of ramen!). I still haven't tried the fried rice, and the curry rice but I bet they are good.

Both Ezogikus feature modern Japanese decor. #1 is far bigger with lots of tables and bar seating. It is quieter than #2 because it is situated at the quiet end of Robson just north of Yaletown and just behind the CBC building.

#2, which is in the heart of the Robson shopping and tourist district, is much smaller and really only has a couple of tables. Most of the time you end up sitting at the bar at #2.

Both are highly recommended!

Ezogiku Noodle Cafe, 270 Robson Street 604 685-9466) AND 1329 Robson Street (604 685-8606)