When S’il Vous Plait closed last May at 500 Robson Street, after 20 years of service, I was rather saddened that the spot where I use to grab a sandwich on my way to work at yet another defunct spot (El Patio) would be no more.  They had great pies and cakes and were known for  stellar service.  Apparently the landlord wouldn’t renew their lease, and asked them to please be on their way.

Now the block is almost all revitalized, and I look forward to sampling through the newcomers.  Kushi Box Japanese Charcoal Grill arrived, along with their motto “it’s not sushi, its kushi”, then we heard that well-loved hot dog cart vendor, Japadog, was setting up a storefront, as well as the cream puffery, Beard Papa’s.  Constuction’s now also begun in the actual spot that once housed S’il Vous Plait, and it will also have Japanese flair.  It’s to be a Japanese beef bowl house, Gyudon Gyu, the first of many to come, according to the owners.

Across the alley we happily see more Japanese vendors.  Here we have Matoi Sushi, Junsei River and even a Japanese Hair Salon – Zeal.  One of the Japanese hairstylists I passed outside, called this strip, “Japan Street”.  If the trend continues perhaps the 500 block could be a mini-Vancouver Japantown.  Welcome!