It’s here! Nomo Nomo dazzles Commercial Drive with “Japanese‑ish” Flair

Nomo Nomo

Nomo Nomo

Neighborhood: Commercial Drive
Address: 1268 Commercial Drive, Vancouver

Last week Vancouver’s late‑night dining scene has welcomed a playful new entry: Nomo Nomo. The 26‑seat concept which is billed as a “Japanese snack bar / dining bar” opened on September 17, 2025, and blends izakaya energy with global influence. Much anticipated by industry insiders, Nomo Nomo was conceived by an all-star team of local restaurateurs: Executive Chef Benedict Lim (The Lunch Lady), Beverage Director Wayne Chow, Chef Heedong Choi (Ubuntu), Bar Manager Lucas Szaraz (The Keefer Bar) and Service Manager Gian Mancenido (The Lunch Lady, Riley’s). What they’ve built is a evocative spot centered around a creative, nostalgia‑tinged menu and a cocktail program rooted in Japanese sensibility.

Inside, the space is moody and intimate, designed for lingering over small plates and drinks. Walnut accents, dim lighting, and rotating art honouring Japanese pop culture create a special energy you won’t get elsewhere. The menu leans yōshoku - Japanese execution of Western influences - with shareable, elevated bites: croquette topped with flame‑seared king salmon and ikura, prawn toast on light Chinese donut, Tomago sando with truffle crab, a playful Iberico tomahawk chop, and more.

Behind the bar, Chow and Szaraz are crafting Japanese‑inspired cocktails like Tonka (vanilla‑rooibos Toki, apricot) and Kuri (port, chestnut, Hokkaido milk), while also offering sake and zero‑proof options.

Nomo Nomo is open daily from 5pm to 11:30 (11:30 Friday/Saturday) and closed on Mondays. Walk-ins may find bar stools, but reservations are strongly encouraged for a full evening of vibey tasting, cocktails, and special memories at this exciting new addition to the Drive.