Sushi Bar Kilala has been a go-to spot for my family for years. This small, unassuming hole in the wall restaurant is a true Burnaby gem. The spot is run by an elderly couple, so they can take only a few tables at a time. If you’re looking for take out orders, I highly recommend you order right at open, or you will probably need to wait over an hour (or more)! Since my last visit, they seem to have hired an additional sushi chef to keep up with demand. Sushi Bar Kilala is second only to Sashimiya for my favourite well priced and authentic Japanese spots. Check out my full review of Sushi Bar Kilala below!
Sushi Bar Kilala – Menu
I took a quick snap of their most up-to date menu:
Sushi Bar Kilala – Recommended Dishes and Must Order Items
At Sushi Bar Kilala, they really shine with their nigiri and sashimi offerings. I personally would avoid their maki rolls and cooked food items as I find them to be underwhelming. My go-to orders are:
- Deluxe Chirashi Sushi ($35.00)
- Spicy Salmon Don ($20.50)
- Unagi Battera ($17.50)
- Futomaki (Half size $7.25)
The Deluxe Chirashi Sushi features expertly cut sashimi on a delicious bed of sushi rice. They really have some stellar sushi rice here that is just warm, without being too vinegary or sweet. On this visit, my bowl included two piece salmon, tuna, and one piece each of hamachi, squid, scallop, uni and tako. To finish the bowl there is a scoop of ikura and their housemade tamago. Everything was very fresh and excellent as always.
The Spicy Salmon Don is another stand out because the spicy sauce is different then your typical gochujang forward spicy salmon at most places. I can’t really place the taste, but this spicy sauce has a really addictive taste, and the salmon is in fresh slices (rather than cubes).
If you have to get one item, it is the Unagi Battera. It is perfectly torched with the most melt in your mouth texture. The sauce is sweet without being overpowering and it is just the most perfect bite!
The Futomaki at Sushi Bar Kilala is an absolute unit, and I find that the half size is the perfect portion to share. It is a comforting roll with all the necessary futomaki ingredients.
Worth a Try?
Yes! This gem is always busy, so I highly recommend you come right at opening to guarantee a seat as well as efficient service and food.
One of the ‘signature items’ at Sushi Bar Kilala is definitely their towering uni nigiri. I didn’t order it on this visit but it is a really great option if you’re an uni fan! The nigiris at Sushi Bar Kilala are always well done, with the perfect amount of sushi rice and expertly cut sashimi. I highly recommend ordering a selection of your favourites or trying the Party Tray 8!
Sushi Bar Kilala
Address: 4749 Hastings St, Burnaby, BC V5C 2K8
Website: https://m.facebook.com/pages/Sushi-Bar-Kilala/