


Calgary
RAW - Japanese Hand Roll Bar
Contemporary Japanese hand roll bar in Calgary’s East Village with an intimate 20-seat counter and walk-in service.
japanese · hand rolls · sushi · sashimi
Our story
We are RAW, a contemporary Japanese hand roll bar in the heart of East Village, Calgary. Founded by two nurses, Cindy Tran and Sharon Huynh, our concept grew from travels that introduced us to Japanese hand rolls served in a bar setting and inspired us to bring that interactive dining experience to Calgary. ([rawyyc.ca](https://www.rawyyc.ca/about/))At our intimate 20-seat counter, we serve hand rolls prepared in front of guests alongside traditional Japanese appetizers, sashimi, signature cocktails, and in-house sauces and recipes. We operate primarily as a walk-in restaurant with takeout available during operating hours, and reservations only for special holidays and events. ([rawyyc.ca](https://www.rawyyc.ca/))
Meet the chef
Chef Mandy Gu appears publicly with RAW during the restaurant’s grand opening coverage. The restaurant’s website highlights skilled chefs preparing hand rolls and serving traditional Japanese appetizers and sashimi with signature in-house sauces and recipes.
— Mandy Gu, Chef
Mandy Gu
Chef
Restaurant highlights
Ways to enjoy
Gallery










Reviews
Google reviews
I’ve been meaning to try this place for two years now, and I finally got to visit during their second anniversary! I had heard so many great things, so I was really excited to try it.I came with my cousins and uncle, and we were all very impressed. Everything we ordered was fresh and delicious. The otoro hand roll, salmon and akami taco were especially amazing. The portions were also perfect.The service was great as well — very attentive and welcoming throughout the whole experience.
Intimate spot for Japanese handrolls and appetizers paired with cool drinks. Loved that you can comfortably dine solo—it feels welcoming either way. Everything is prepared right in front of you, which adds to the experience.Dessert features milk ice cream in different flavours, a simple but satisfying way to end the meal. Street parking available. Great service and a clean, aesthetic space overall.
Not one to post reviews unless it’s outstanding or very underwhelming and this restaurant was absolutely the best!! By far the best spicy salmon roll I’ve ever had, having not only been to Japan but many other sushi hubs worldwide. The owner, Sharon, is so sweet hearted and a breath of fresh air! Jewel was the best hostess and super engaging! Nick was a great sushi chef who also elevated the atmosphere! A gem in Calgary!!
Raw - Japanese Hand Roll Bar offers an impeccable dining experience with standout flavours and fresh ingredients. I would highly recommend trying the tuna carpaccio, Salmon Crudo, and Yuzu Salmon, each dish was exceptionally well-prepared and bursting with flavour. I also took home a salmon sandwich, which was justifiably delicious.Don’t miss out on the off-menu specials, which were a pleasant surprise and added to the overall experience.While the service was good, there is still some room for improvement. That said, the quality of the food and the inviting atmosphere make this place a hidden gem well worth visiting.
Raw handroll Bar was an incredible experience from start to finish. Everything I tried was amazing fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared but the salmon belly and the lobster hand roll were the real standouts for me. The balance of textures and flavors was spot on and left a lasting impression. On top of the food, the service was attentive and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. Easily one of the best sushi spots in Calgary and should be on the Michelin guide at minimum. A place I’ll be coming back to often.
Guest testimonials
Intimate spot for Japanese handrolls and appetizers paired with cool drinks. Loved that you can comfortably dine solo—it feels welcoming either way. Everything is prepared right in front of you, which adds to the experience.
By far the best spicy salmon roll I’ve ever had, having not only been to Japan but many other sushi hubs worldwide. The owner, Sharon, is so sweet hearted and a breath of fresh air! Jewel was the best hostess and super engaging! Nick was a great sushi chef who also elevated the atmosphere!
Everything I tried was amazing fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared but the salmon belly and the lobster hand roll were the real standouts for me. The balance of textures and flavors was spot on and left a lasting impression.
Hand-rolled maki sushi was scrumptious. Chicken karaage and tofu were freshly made and authentic. If you're nearby, I highly recommend it.
Amazing place, amazing staff, great food, and amazing service. I eat here once a week and in my 2 years in Calgary this is one of my favourite food spots!
Visit Us
Opening Hours
Closed · opens 5:00 PM
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday