Category: Douglas College

For Douglas College Coquitlam students, finding high-quality sushi at student-friendly prices can be tough. That’s where Hakone Sushi comes in—a hidden gem serving fresh sashimi, creative rolls, and satisfying Japanese meals at reasonable prices. Whether you’re looking for a quick sushi fix, a hearty bento box, or an affordable sashimi platter, Hakone Sushi delivers on flavor, freshness, and value.

What is Hakone Sushi?

Hakone Sushi is a casual Japanese restaurant in Coquitlam, known for its fresh seafood, generous portions, and diverse menu. Unlike high-end sushi spots, Hakone offers great quality without the premium price tag, making it a go-to spot for students craving sushi without overspending.

Why Douglas College Students Love Hakone Sushi

✔ Affordable Sushi, Great Portions – Enjoy fresh rolls, sashimi, and nigiri at budget-friendly prices.
✔ Fast & Convenient – A great spot for grab-and-go sushi or a quick dine-in meal between classes.
✔ More Than Just Sushi – From bento boxes and donburi bowls to udon and tempura, the menu has something for everyone.
✔ Fresh Ingredients, Quality Seafood – Unlike some cheap sushi spots, Hakone prioritizes freshness and clean flavors.
✔ Great for Sharing – Order a variety of rolls and platters with friends for an affordable feast.

Must-Try Dishes at Hakone Sushi

🍣 Salmon & Tuna Sashimi – Thick-cut, buttery sashimi that melts in your mouth.
🍣 Dynamite Roll – A crowd-favorite roll with crispy tempura prawn, avocado, cucumber, and sweet sauce.
🍣 Spicy Tuna Roll – A flavorful, spicy twist on classic tuna maki, topped with spicy mayo.
🍱 Chicken Teriyaki Bento Box – A complete meal with grilled chicken, rice, salad, tempura, and miso soup—great for students who want variety.
🍜 Tempura Udon – A comforting bowl of thick udon noodles in savory broth, served with crispy tempura on the side.
🍛 Unagi Don (Grilled Eel Rice Bowl) – A rich, umami-packed rice bowl topped with sweet-savory grilled eel and sesame seeds.

Price & Value

Most sushi rolls range from $6 to $14, while sashimi plates, bento boxes, and rice bowls are priced between $12 and $20. Compared to other sushi restaurants in Coquitlam, Hakone Sushi offers bigger portions and better value, making it one of the best sushi spots for students on a budget.

Final Verdict: Is Hakone Sushi Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re a Douglas College Coquitlam student craving fresh, affordable, and satisfying sushi, Hakone Sushi is a must-visit. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a sushi dinner with friends, or just a grab-and-go snack, their generous portions, fresh ingredients, and great prices make it one of the best sushi spots near campus.

🔥 Pro Tip: Order a combo meal or share a sushi platter with friends for the best value!

Have you tried Hakone Sushi in Coquitlam? Let us know your favorite roll in the comments below! 🍣🔥

Check out the menu here: https://hakonesushi.ca/

For Douglas College Coquitlam students, a warm, flavorful bowl of ramen is the perfect comfort food—especially after long lectures or on chilly days. If you’re looking for authentic, high-quality Japanese ramen at student-friendly prices, Maruhachi Ramen in Coquitlam is a must-visit. Known for its rich tonkotsu broth, house-made noodles, and perfectly cooked chashu pork, Maruhachi delivers some of the best ramen in the area without the high price tag of premium ramen shops.

What is Maruhachi Ramen?

Maruhachi Ramen is a Japanese ramen house specializing in Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen, a rich and creamy pork bone broth that’s simmered for hours to develop deep umami flavors. Unlike lighter ramen styles, Maruhachi’s broth is thick, velvety, and full of flavor, making it a top choice for ramen lovers who crave something satisfying and filling.

Why Douglas College Students Love Maruhachi Ramen

✔ Rich, Authentic Tonkotsu Broth – Simmered for over 12 hours, delivering deep, creamy, umami-packed flavors.
✔ Affordable for High-Quality Ramen – Most bowls range from $13 to $18, making it one of the best-value ramen spots in Coquitlam.
✔ House-Made Noodles – Fresh, springy, and cooked to perfection, complementing the broth perfectly.
✔ Large Portions & Toppings – Generous servings of chashu pork, wood ear mushrooms, soft-boiled eggs, and green onions.
✔ Fast & Convenient – Great for a quick lunch between classes or a late dinner after studying.

Best Ramen Bowls to Try at Maruhachi Ramen

🍜 Tonkotsu Ramen – A classic, rich pork bone broth ramen, topped with chashu pork, soft-boiled egg, bamboo shoots, and green onions.
🍜 Black Garlic Tonkotsu Ramen – A bold, deeply flavored tonkotsu broth infused with roasted black garlic oil for extra richness.
🌶 Spicy Red Tonkotsu Ramen – A spicy twist on the classic, with house-made chili oil adding heat and depth.
🥩 Chashu Lover’s Ramen – Perfect for meat lovers, featuring extra slices of slow-braised, melt-in-your-mouth pork chashu.
🍚 Chashu Don (Pork Rice Bowl) – A savory rice bowl topped with tender chashu pork, egg, and green onions, great as a side or small meal.
🥟 Pork Gyoza – Crispy pan-fried dumplings with juicy pork filling, a must-try appetizer.

Price & Value

Most ramen bowls at Maruhachi cost between $13 and $18, making it a reasonably priced option for premium ramen. Sides like gyoza and rice bowls range from $5 to $10, so you can add extras without breaking the bank. The rich flavors, large portions, and high-quality ingredients make it well worth the price for students craving authentic ramen.

Final Verdict: Is Maruhachi Ramen Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re a Douglas College Coquitlam student looking for a hearty, flavorful, and affordable bowl of ramen, Maruhachi Ramen is a must-try. Their rich tonkotsu broth, fresh noodles, and generous toppings set them apart as one of the best ramen spots in Coquitlam. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or sitting down for a cozy dinner, Maruhachi delivers an unbeatable ramen experience.

🔥 Pro Tip: Customize your bowl by adding extra chashu, corn, or a soft-boiled egg for the ultimate ramen experience!

Have you tried Maruhachi Ramen in Coquitlam? Let us know your favorite bowl in the comments below! 🍜🔥

Check out the menu here: https://maruhachi.ca/coquitlam-menu/

If you’re a Douglas College student looking for a meal that’s a step above your usual grab-and-go options, El Santo in New Westminster is the place to be. Known for its modern take on authentic Mexican cuisine, this local gem serves up handmade tacos, rich mole dishes, and fresh seafood in a stylish yet welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating the end of exams, catching up with friends, or just craving a flavorful, high-quality meal, El Santo delivers bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a taste of Mexico right in the heart of New West.

What is El Santo?

El Santo is an award-winning Mexican restaurant that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a modern approach to traditional Mexican dishes. Unlike your typical fast-food taco spot, El Santo offers gourmet Mexican fare—think slow-braised meats, house-made salsas, and premium tequila cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for street-style tacos, ceviche, or their famous mole poblano, every dish is crafted with care and authenticity.

Why Students & Locals Love El Santo

✔ Authentic & Elevated Mexican Flavors – Traditional recipes meet creative, modern twists, bringing out deep, complex flavors in every dish.
✔ Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients – Locally sourced produce, handmade tortillas, and slow-cooked meats make every meal stand out.
✔ Great for Group Dining – Whether you’re celebrating with friends or having a casual dinner, the sharing-friendly menu makes it a fun dining experience.
✔ Chic & Relaxed Atmosphere – A beautifully designed space that’s perfect for a nice dinner, date night, or weekend treat.
✔ Cocktails & Tequila Selection – If you’re of legal drinking age, their tequila and mezcal cocktails are some of the best in New West.

Must-Try Dishes at El Santo

🌮 Tacos de Carnitas – Slow-braised pork tacos with fresh toppings and handmade tortillas.
🌮 Birria Tacos – Tender braised beef tacos with rich consommé for dipping.
🐟 Tostadas de Atún – Light and fresh tuna tostadas with avocado, citrus, and crispy tortillas.
🔥 Mole Poblano – A classic Mexican dish with deep, complex flavors, featuring slow-cooked chicken smothered in rich mole sauce.
🥑 Guacamole & Chips – A simple yet must-have starter made with fresh avocados, lime, and house-made tortilla chips.

Price & Value

El Santo is slightly pricier than typical student dining spots, with tacos averaging $14-$18 for an order and entrées ranging from $20-$30. While it’s not the cheapest option near Douglas College, the quality, freshness, and experience make it worth it—especially for a special meal or celebration.

Final Verdict: Is El Santo Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for an elevated Mexican dining experience that’s fresh, flavorful, and well-crafted, El Santo is a must-visit. While it’s not an everyday student budget spot, it’s perfect for when you want to treat yourself to bold flavors and high-quality Mexican cuisine.

🔥 Pro Tip: Go during Happy Hour for discounts on tacos and drinks! It’s the best way to enjoy El Santo’s flavors without spending too much.

Have you tried El Santo in New West? Let us know your favorite dish in the comments below! 🌮

Check out the menu here: https://elsanto.ca/

When you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that won’t break the bank, North Noodle House in New Westminster is the perfect spot. Located near Douglas College, this hidden gem is known for its authentic hand-pulled noodles, savory broths, and bold Northern Chinese flavors. Whether you need a quick bite between classes or a filling meal to fuel your study sessions, North Noodle House delivers big portions, rich flavors, and budget-friendly prices.

What is North Noodle House?

North Noodle House specializes in hand-pulled noodles made fresh in-house, giving their dishes a chewy, satisfying texture that sets them apart from typical fast-food noodles. Their menu features spicy beef noodle soup, stir-fried noodle dishes, and dumplings, offering a perfect balance of heat, umami, and deep, aromatic flavors.

Why Students Love North Noodle House

✔ Hand-Pulled Fresh Noodles – Each bowl is made with chewy, authentic hand-stretched noodles for the perfect bite.
✔ Generous Portions – Perfect for hungry students, one bowl can easily keep you full for hours.
✔ Rich, Bold Flavors – From spicy broths to savory stir-fries, every dish is packed with deep flavors.
✔ Affordable & Worth It – Most meals range from $12-$16, making it a great value for the portion size.
✔ Fast & Convenient – Great for a quick meal between classes or a satisfying sit-down lunch.

Best Dishes to Try at North Noodle House

🍜 Spicy Beef Noodle Soup – A rich, slow-cooked beef broth with tender braised beef, hand-pulled noodles, and fresh herbs.
🍜 Stir-Fried Hand-Pulled Noodles – Wok-tossed noodles with a savory soy-based sauce, fresh veggies, and beef or chicken.
🥟 Dumplings (Pan-Fried or Boiled) – Juicy, handmade dumplings filled with pork, beef, or vegetables, served with a side of dipping sauce.
🔥 Cumin Lamb Noodles – A Northern Chinese specialty, featuring spiced lamb, chewy noodles, and fragrant cumin seasoning.
🥬 Vegetarian Stir-Fried Noodles – A light yet flavorful option with crisp veggies and aromatic seasonings.

Price & Value

Most noodle dishes and soups range from $12-$16, making North Noodle House a great budget-friendly option for students who want a hearty, freshly made meal. The portions are large enough to share or save for later, giving you even more value for your money.

Final Verdict: Is North Noodle House Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re a noodle lover looking for authentic hand-pulled noodles with bold flavors and generous portions, North Noodle House is a must-visit. It’s a go-to spot for Douglas College students who need a hot, satisfying meal that’s fast, affordable, and packed with rich Northern Chinese flavors.

🔥 Pro Tip: Try their chili oil on the side for an extra kick of heat, and grab a side of dumplings to complete your meal!

Have you tried North Noodle House in New West? Let us know your favorite dish in the comments below! 🍜

When you’re rushing between classes or need a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal, nothing beats a freshly made banh mi. Located near Douglas College in New Westminster, Banh Mi Bar is the perfect spot for students craving crispy baguettes, savory meats, and bold Vietnamese flavors—all at student-friendly prices. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before class or looking for something filling on the go, this spot is a must-try for sandwich lovers and Vietnamese food fans alike.

What is Banh Mi Bar?

Banh Mi Bar specializes in Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, known for their crusty French baguettes, flavorful fillings, and fresh herbs. Each sandwich is made to order, packed with grilled meats, pickled veggies, and house-made sauces, creating the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. They also offer pho, vermicelli bowls, and bubble tea, making it a go-to spot for a quick and tasty meal.

Why Students Love Banh Mi Bar

✔ Fast & Convenient – Sandwiches are made fresh in minutes, perfect for a grab-and-go meal.
✔ Affordable & Filling – Banh mi sandwiches cost around $6-$9, making them one of the best budget-friendly options near Douglas College.
✔ Authentic Vietnamese Flavors – From savory lemongrass chicken to rich pâté and cold cuts, every bite is packed with traditional flavors.
✔ Variety of Options – Choose from classic banh mi, fresh vermicelli bowls, pho, or bubble tea to mix things up.

Best Banh Mi & Dishes to Try at Banh Mi Bar

🥖 Classic Banh Mi (Banh Mi Dac Biet) – A traditional mix of Vietnamese cold cuts, pâté, pickled veggies, fresh cilantro, and house-made sauce.
🥖 Grilled Lemongrass Chicken Banh Mi – Juicy, marinated chicken packed into a crispy baguette, topped with crunchy cucumbers and carrots.
🥖 BBQ Pork Banh Mi – Sweet and smoky barbecue pork, perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and a light crunch from pickled daikon.
🍜 Beef Pho – A warm, comforting bowl of rich beef broth, rice noodles, and tender beef slices, great for rainy days.
🥗 Vermicelli Bowl with Grilled Pork – Light yet satisfying, this dish features vermicelli noodles, grilled pork, fresh herbs, and a tangy fish sauce dressing.

Price & Value

A classic banh mi starts at around $6-$9, making it one of the most affordable and filling meals near Douglas College. Larger meals like pho and vermicelli bowls range from $10-$15, still offering great value for the portion size and quality.

Final Verdict: Is Banh Mi Bar Worth It?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal near Douglas College, Banh Mi Bar is a must-visit. Their freshly made sandwiches, flavorful broths, and affordable prices make them a top choice for students who want something satisfying without spending too much.

🔥 Pro Tip: Add an egg or extra meat to your banh mi for a more filling meal, and grab a Vietnamese iced coffee for the perfect caffeine boost!

Have you tried Banh Mi Bar in New West? Let us know your favorite sandwich in the comments below! 🥖

When you’re a student juggling classes, assignments, and a tight budget, finding a meal that’s affordable, satisfying, and packed with flavor is a must. If you’re craving authentic Vietnamese food that warms the soul, Tina Viet Cuisine in New Westminster is the perfect spot. Located just minutes from Douglas College, this hidden gem serves up steaming bowls of pho, crispy banh mi, and flavorful rice dishes that make for a delicious and budget-friendly meal between classes.

What is Tina Viet Cuisine?

Tina Viet Cuisine is a casual Vietnamese restaurant specializing in traditional comfort foods, from rich, aromatic pho to fresh vermicelli bowls and savory rice dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a light, refreshing salad roll or a hearty, slow-simmered beef noodle soup, Tina Viet Cuisine delivers authentic flavors at student-friendly prices.

Why Students Love Tina Viet Cuisine

✔ Affordable & Filling – Get a big, satisfying meal without spending too much—perfect for students on a budget.
✔ Authentic Vietnamese Flavors – The house-made broths, grilled meats, and fresh herbs bring traditional Vietnamese dishes to life.
✔ Fast & Convenient – Service is quick, making it a great option for a meal between classes or takeout on the go.
✔ Variety of Options – Whether you’re craving pho, rice plates, banh mi, or vermicelli bowls, there’s something for every appetite.

Must-Try Dishes at Tina Viet Cuisine

🍜 Special Beef Pho (Pho Dac Biet) – A steaming bowl of slow-cooked beef broth, rice noodles, and tender beef slices, topped with fresh herbs and bean sprouts.
🥖 Grilled Pork Banh Mi – A crispy baguette stuffed with grilled pork, pickled veggies, fresh cilantro, and house-made sauce.
🍛 Lemongrass Chicken on Rice – Juicy, marinated chicken served over fluffy jasmine rice, with a side of tangy fish sauce.
🥗 Vietnamese Vermicelli Bowl – A fresh, light yet satisfying option with grilled meat, vermicelli noodles, and crisp vegetables.
🌯 Fresh Shrimp Salad Rolls – A healthy snack wrapped in rice paper with shrimp, vermicelli, and fresh herbs, served with peanut sauce.

Price & Value

Most dishes range between $10-$16, making Tina Viet Cuisine a great deal for students looking for a delicious and affordable meal. Portions are generous, and many options come with sides like spring rolls or egg rolls, giving you more value for your money.

Final Verdict: Is Tina Viet Cuisine Worth It?

Definitely! If you’re looking for warm, flavorful, and affordable Vietnamese food near Douglas College, Tina Viet Cuisine is a must-try. Whether you need a quick takeout meal or a sit-down lunch with friends, this spot delivers on taste, value, and convenience.

🔥 Pro Tip: Try their iced Vietnamese coffee for a strong caffeine boost—it’s sweet, bold, and the perfect pick-me-up before class!

Have you tried Tina Viet Cuisine in New West? Let us know your favorite dish in the comments below! 🍜

Check out the menu here: https://www.clover.com/online-ordering/tina-vietnamese-cuisine-new-westminster

As a student, finding a meal that’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor is essential—especially during those long, rainy days in New West. If you’re craving something hearty, interactive, and customizable, Big Way Hotpot is the perfect spot. Located near Douglas College’s New Westminster campus, this self-serve hotpot restaurant lets you build your own bowl, choosing from a variety of fresh ingredients and rich broths for an authentic hotpot experience on a student budget.

What is Big Way Hotpot?

Big Way Hotpot offers a modern take on traditional Chinese hotpot, allowing diners to customize their own bowls with fresh meats, seafood, vegetables, noodles, and house-made broths. Unlike traditional sit-down hotpot, where you cook your food at the table, Big Way is a self-serve, fast-casual version, making it a quicker, more convenient option for students.

Why Students Love Big Way Hotpot

✔ Customizable & DIY – Pick your own ingredients, broth, and spice level for a meal tailored to your cravings.
✔ Fast & Convenient – Unlike traditional hotpot, there’s no long wait—just build your bowl, choose your broth, and enjoy!
✔ Affordable & Filling – Pricing is based on weight, so you control how much you spend while still getting a satisfying meal.
✔ Great for Cold Days – A steaming bowl of hotpot is perfect for warming up during those rainy New West afternoons.
✔ Tons of Variety – Whether you love spicy Sichuan flavors, rich tonkotsu broths, or light herbal soups, Big Way has a broth for every taste.

How It Works

1️⃣ Grab a Bowl – Select your ingredients from the self-serve bar. Choose from thinly sliced beef, fresh seafood, tofu, veggies, and noodles.
2️⃣ Pick Your Broth – Options range from classic pork bone broth to bold, spicy Sichuan mala soup.
3️⃣ Weigh & Pay – Your bowl is priced by weight, so you control your portion and budget.
4️⃣ Enjoy! – Your hotpot is cooked fresh and served steaming hot.

Best Ingredients & Broths to Try at Big Way Hotpot

🔥 Spicy Sichuan Mala Broth – If you love bold, numbing spice, this broth is a must-try.
🔥 Pork Bone Broth – A rich, creamy, and comforting option that pairs well with all proteins.
🔥 Seafood & Tofu Combo – Perfect for a lighter, high-protein hotpot with shrimp, fish balls, and tofu.
🔥 Beef & Mushroom Hotpot – A savory mix of thinly sliced beef, mushrooms, and udon noodles.
🔥 Vegetarian Hotpot – Load up on bok choy, enoki mushrooms, tofu, and glass noodles in a light herbal broth.

Price & Value

Hotpot at Big Way is priced by weight, typically ranging between $12-$20 per meal, depending on how much you load up your bowl. Unlike traditional hotpot spots that charge a fixed price per person, Big Way gives you full control over portion sizes and pricing, making it a great value for students.

Final Verdict: Is Big Way Hotpot Worth It?

Absolutely! If you love customizable, hearty meals, Big Way Hotpot is a must-try. It’s a quick, fun, and budget-friendly way to enjoy authentic hotpot flavors without the long wait. Whether you’re looking for a warming meal on a cold day or a protein-packed dish to fuel your studies, Big Way is the perfect option for Douglas College students.

🔥 Pro Tip: Go for a mix of proteins, veggies, and noodles to get the best balance of flavor and texture!

Have you tried Big Way Hotpot in New Westminster? Let us know your favorite ingredient combos in the comments below! 🍲

Check out the menu here: https://www.bigwayhotpot.com/

When you’re a student, finding a meal that’s affordable, satisfying, and packed with flavor is key. Whether you’re pulling a long study session, meeting up with friends, or just craving comfort food done right, Spud Shack in New Westminster has you covered. Famous for their loaded poutines, crispy fries, and indulgent comfort food, this spot is a go-to for SFU Douglas College students looking for a quick and delicious meal.

What is Spud Shack?

Spud Shack is a local gem specializing in gourmet poutine and hand-cut fries. Unlike your average fast-food fries, Spud Shack takes it up a notch with house-made gravies, premium toppings, and perfectly crispy potatoes. Whether you’re in the mood for classic poutine, a spicy buffalo twist, or a fully loaded bacon cheeseburger poutine, you’ll find something that hits the spot.

Why Students Love Spud Shack

✔ Next-Level Poutine – This isn’t just fries and gravy—Spud Shack elevates poutine with gourmet toppings, rich gravies, and fresh cheese curds.
✔ Big Portions, Budget-Friendly – One order is filling enough for a full meal, making it a great bang for your buck.
✔ Quick & Convenient – Perfect for grabbing a bite between classes or a late-night study session snack.
✔ Vegetarian & Customizable Options – Love poutine but want a meat-free option? There are plenty of plant-based and gluten-free choices.

Must-Try Poutines at Spud Shack

🍟 Classic Poutine – Hand-cut fries, rich brown gravy, and fresh Quebec cheese curds. Simple, traditional, and delicious.
🍟 Buffalo Chicken Poutine – Crispy fried chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, drizzled with ranch on top of classic poutine.
🍟 Bacon Cheeseburger Poutine – A loaded option with ground beef, crispy bacon, cheese sauce, and pickles.
🍟 Veggie Lovers Poutine – Packed with grilled mushrooms, peppers, onions, and vegetarian gravy.
🍟 Truffle Parmesan Fries – If you’re not in the mood for gravy, these crispy fries with truffle oil and parmesan are a must-try.

Price & Value

Most poutines range from $10-$15, making them a great deal considering the portion size and premium toppings. If you’re looking for something affordable, hearty, and packed with flavor, Spud Shack is one of the best options near SFU Douglas College.

Final Verdict: Is Spud Shack Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you’re a poutine purist or love a creative, loaded fry experience, Spud Shack delivers on taste, quality, and portion size. It’s a perfect spot for students who want something filling, affordable, and easy to grab between classes.

🔥 Pro Tip: Go during Happy Hour for discounts on poutine and drinks!

Have you tried Spud Shack in New Westminster? Let us know your favorite poutine in the comments below! 🍟

Check out the menu here: https://spudshack.ca/