It really is hidden away and from outside it is very unassuming. Even when you first enter it is not a "smart restaurant". Once you start to receive the food you realise that you are getting a very genuine experience. We had a "beginners set"...sushi and the Oyako Don (chicken, rice, egg, onion composition). Both dishes were excellent. So glad we were recommended it by our B&B host, otherwise we would never have found out about it.More

Bistro Taiyo is my favorite restaurant in Nanaimo and has consistently provided excellent food and service for almost 20 years. The sushi made at other restaurants in Nanaimo tends to be heavily Westernized and slathered in weird ingredients, but here you'll find only traditional Japanese...dishes exquisitely crafted by a master chef to bring out the natural flavours of high quality ingredients. I have never had a bad meal there, and it's the only restaurant I can eat at when I'm feeling unwell and have no appetite. The meals served there tend to be light and nutritious, yet also incredibly delicious. My favorite dish at Bistro Taiyo is the takoyaki, but it's a bit of an acquired taste so I don't recommend it for first-time diners. The agedashi tofu is a close second; both are made using the chef's special recipe and are far superior to the same dishes served at other restaurants. Pretty much everything made there is excellent, but I do recommend a bit of caution for diners who've never experienced authentic Japanese food as some of the dishes may taste odd to a Western palette. It's great to try new things, but make sure you know what you're ordering!More

Amazing izakaya cuisine, and the ramen is incredible too. Very reasonably priced and great atmosphere.

The wonderful staff loaded us up with delicious food. We enjoyed crispy tempura, tight maki and delectable sashimi... cannot wait for our next meal here!

Whenever I travel, I enjoy checking out the local food scene before I arrive. When I saw this place online, I knew that I had to visit here during my trip to Nanaimo. Located in the Old City Quarter, this restaurant is a quaint little...gem. The staff were friendly and professional, and the food was fantastic! The menu is extensive, and it has items that I normally don't see on menus at other Japanese establishments.More

What a fantastic restaurant. From sushi to salmon belly these guys make a varied selection of delicious and truly authentic Japanese food in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The service is also wonderful and we always feel very welcome back (yes, we're return customers!!). Highly...recommend the Takoyaki, crispy octopus and gomae (spinach with sesame sauce). On Sundays they only serve Ramen: my favorite is crazy good - black sesame with roasted pork and garlic chips. OMG.More

As an expat from Japan, now living in a Nanaimo, whenever I miss the atmosphere and the comfort foods (as well as sushi, of course!) of Japan, I pick up a phone to make a reservation. And Yes, I talk in Japanese to make this...reservation as well as while at the restaurant! This restaurant which means Bistro Sun, sits in a corner in a charming old town of Nanaimo. It is peaceful and lovely inside, food delicious and the Japanese young couple, the owners, and staff members are warm and attentive. My husband and I sit there over sake or a Japanese dry beer or two and favorite foods, and as always enjoy our time together, happy as a clam... A must in a Nanaimo.More

Love the sushi, best miso i have ever had and the bento boxes are delicious. The staff are very friendly and helpful. Lunch or dinner you will not be disapointed.

The best thing about this restaurant that serves sushi tapas is that the food is fresh. Not so impressive are small portions-a roll consists of a few pieces-and fine dining prices. They charge for tea which is usually free in competitive places. Potato croquettes-no sauce-were...very small. Pork dumplings were not great either. Miso soup OK but nothing special. Sashimi-raw fish-OK but six thin slices of salmon for $10 is not a filler. For a total of $75 we got 2 appetizers, tea, 1 sashimi and 2 rolls. Will not return there.More

One of our best restaurant experiences in Nanaimo. Good location, nice ambience, very friendly servers and excellent service. We thoroughly enjoyed their miso soup, assorted tempura, unagi roll and chicken karaage. It was all delicious and we left feeling very full and completely satisfied ~...for a grand total of $33.00! We will definitely be back. Highly recommended!More

I haven’t been there for awhile so decided to go for lunch the other day. All Japanese staff and chefs , great service and very cute waitress served us. Food comes out quick and there is no ridiculous “Fusion” nonsense that goes on which drives...me crazy! Traditional Japanese style. The best thing they do is their chicken karaage! Exceptional and totally Japanese style too. Great spot to go and they have almost anything you ask for even “Natto”More

In five years of living in Nanaimo I have never been let down by bistro taiyo. The staff are always amazing, kitchen is consistent. They even often remember my name! I love this place as a date spot, but also so lovely to sit alone...and eat slowly. I love you bistro taiyo! A true community gem.More