Guu

1698 Robson.
IZAKAYA

my favorite of the Guu's is Guu with Garlic on Robson . For izakaya, Guu Robson and Kingyo (on Denman) are at the top of my list. Favorites are the daikon salad, salmon carpaccio, pumpkin balls, and kim chi.

The other Guus (838 Thurlow and 375 Water Street) are great. At the Guu in Gastown, the spinach gomae is unbelievable.

http://www.guu-izakaya.com/

$ - $$

Nuba

LEBANESE

3 locations.  
Gastown:  207 West Hastings,

Just off Main st:  146 East 3rd.
and Kitsilano. 

For authentic Lebanese cuisine, hummus, baba ghanooj, taboulleh, lentils, roasted cauliflower, feta, olives, etc.

Turkish coffee with cardamom, perfecto.

http://nuba.ca/

$$

Motomachi Shokudo

740 Denman (north of robson)

Ramen
a big bowl of hot ramen noodle soup. you're good to go. rivals legendary noodle.

ramen bowls around $10.

$

Cascade Room

2616 Main St.

Great wine and beer list. Great salads. yummy polenta fries.

http://thecascade.ca/about.htm

$$

Zipang Sushi

3710 Main Street.

http://www.zipangsushi.com/

$ - $$