Onigiri in Canada

Onigiri Craze Canada

• Onigiri, the Canadian Way: We understand Canadian cravings! That's why we offer classic Japanese onigiri fillings alongside exciting flavors inspired by our diverse country – think maple-glazed bacon or butter chicken!

• Freshness You Can Count On: We source local ingredients whenever possible, ensuring your onigiri is as fresh and delicious as can be.

• Canadian Convenience: Say goodbye to boring lunches! Onigiri is the perfect grab-and-go snack for busy Canadians, bringing a taste of adventure to your day.

• From Our Kitchen to Yours: We're passionate about sharing the joy of onigiri with all of Canada, from the bustling cities to the quiet coastlines.

Explore Our Flavors of Onigiri in Canada

Get ready for a taste adventure! We've taken the classic Japanese onigiri and infused it with flavors that celebrate the diversity and spirit of Canada. Here's a sneak peek:

• The Great Canadian Classic: A must-try! Maple-glazed smoked salmon, a touch of cream cheese, and a sprinkle of chives.

• West Coast Delight: Wild BC salmon, tangy lemon, and a hint of dill – a taste of the Pacific in every bite.

• Prairie Harvest: Roasted sweet potato, earthy sage, and a touch of warming spice for cozy comfort.

• Butter Chicken Bliss: Tender, spiced butter chicken nestled in perfectly cooked rice – a fusion favorite.

• Montreal Smoked Meat Tradition: A tribute to iconic flavors, with savory smoked meat, a hint of mustard, and a dill pickle surprise.

Best Onigiri Restaurants in Canada

Discover the best places to savor authentic Japanese onigiri in Canada. From traditional flavors in cozy Izakayas to modern twists in bustling restaurants, find the perfect spot to satisfy your onigiri cravings. Indulge in the simple perfection of onigiri at Canada's finest Japanese eateries. Whether you seek the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling Izakaya or the refined elegance of a specialty restaurant, every bite transports you to the heart of Japan.

Vancouver

Gyoza Bar (Vancouver, BC): A lively Izakaya spot with delicious onigiri varieties amongst their fantastic Japanese tapas-style menu. Their grilled onigiri with different sauces are particularly popular.

Vancouver

Japadog (Vancouver, BC): While mostly known for their unique Japanese-style hotdogs, Japadog also offers a small selection of tasty onigiri with classic flavors.

Toronto

Zakkushi on Carlton(Toronto, ON): This Izakaya chain offers a fantastic selection of grilled onigiri, with options like salmon, cod roe, and the adventurous "natto" (fermented soybeans).

Toronto

Kintaro Izakaya (Toronto, ON): A cozy spot with a diverse menu featuring several classic onigiri fillings in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Montreal

Kazu(Montreal, QC): A beloved Montreal institution, known for its refined Japanese cuisine and creative take on onigiri with both traditional and modern flavors.

Montreal

Otto Izakaya (Montreal, QC): This hip Izakaya serves beautifully prepared onigiri grilled over charcoal, along with other Japanese pub fare.

Edmonton

Fuku Ramen (Edmonton, AB): A ramen shop with surprisingly well-crafted onigiri options.

Types of Places to Find Onigiri in Canada

• Japanese Restaurants: Many Japanese restaurants offer onigiri, particularly those specializing in sushi or homestyle cooking. Check their menus before visiting.

• Izakayas: These Japanese pubs often feature onigiri as a tasty snack to accompany drinks.

• Asian Grocery Stores: Larger Asian supermarkets, especially Japanese ones, may have pre-made onigiri in their refrigerated sections. Look for stores like T&T Supermarket or H-Mart.

• Specialty Onigiri Shops: While less common, a few dedicated onigiri shops are beginning to pop up in major cities like Toronto (Oniguy) and Vancouver. Search online using "[City Name] onigiri shop".

• Online Delivery: Services like Uber Eats or DoorDash may offer onigiri from select restaurants in your area, especially in larger cities.

Fun Facts

• A Growing Trend: Onigiri is becoming increasingly popular in Canada, thanks to its convenience, flavorful variety, and healthy appeal.

• Uniquely Canadian Flavors: Some restaurants and home chefs experiment with Canadian-inspired onigiri fillings, like butter chicken, Montreal smoked meat, or maple bacon.

• The Nori Trick: The strip of nori (seaweed) around onigiri has a purpose! It prevents the rice from sticking to your hands for a mess-free snack.

• Perfect Picnic Partner: Canadians love outdoor activities, and onigiri is an ideal, portable food for hiking, camping, or a day at the beach.

• Anime Influence: The popularity of anime and Japanese culture in Canada has contributed to a growing interest in onigiri.

Onigiri in Canada Tips

• Ask For Fresh: For the best taste, prioritize restaurants that make onigiri fresh to order.

• Reheating Tips: If you purchase onigiri to-go, reheat gently in the microwave or toaster oven to revive the rice's softness. A quick pan-fry adds a delicious crispy texture.

• Get Creative at Home: Making your own onigiri is fun! Experiment with fillings like leftover salmon, roasted veggies, or even scrambled eggs and cheese for a breakfast onigiri.

• Beyond the Triangle: While the traditional triangle is iconic, onigiri can be shaped into balls, cylinders, or even cute animal shapes!

• Onigiri for All: Onigiri are naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegetarian or vegan, making them a great inclusive snack option.