They are open late all week and are easily accessible by public transit but also by bicycle. The neighboring area is notable for its restaurants, stores and parks.
It’s difficult these days to call yourself a true Vancouverite without having sampled a Japanese-style hot dog at the legendary Japadog, and it’s nigh impossible to miss out on a visit to one of their many locations if you’re just passing through our fine city. Japadog has toppings you’ve never dreamed of; so let your imagination soar. The Terimayo is a classic first choice, before digging into the full assortment of varieties. My favourite is the Ume Katsuo, which features Japanese pickled plum.
The unique Japanese-style hot dogs at Japadog have been celebrated on Food Network Canada's Eat Street and Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations. Starting with a single food cart in 2005, this Vancouver success story has since expanded to include six Lower Mainland mobile locations, a Robson Street brick-and-mortar restaurant and two stands in California. The signature Terimayo dog features teriyaki sauce, mayo and seaweed. Pork cutlet dogs, Kobe beef dogs, salmon dogs and even a deep-fried bun filled with ice cream can all be found on the inventive and extensive menu.
When Japadog hit the streets of Vancouver in 2005, nobody was quite sure what to make of the menu offerings of nori, wasabi mayo and teriyaki-topped dogs served by a very friendly but non-English-speaking vendor. It didn’t take long, though, before the humble hotdog stand began to speak for itself. Ten years later and the franchise boasts trucks all over the city and even a permanent location downtown. People — and many celebrities according to their picture wall of fame — can’t get enough of these Japanese dogs.