Chōshoku

That’s "breakfast" in Japanese. And, next time you go for it, go for Marulilu Cafe.

This dearly cute Mount Pleasant eatery carries a comprehensive drinks menu (smooth and grassy-sweet matcha lattes) and both Japanese and western meal choices. However, there’s no beating a piping-hot plate laid elegantly with a perfectly cooked omelette, grilled salmon, fluffy white rice, ginger-topped tofu and miso soup ($6.99). It’s a light yet completely fortifying way to start the day, Tokyo-style. All that’s missing are blue eggplant pickles and the morning hustle of the Shinkansen station.

This is one homey Japanese comfort experience we’re already craving again. —Adrienne Matei

Marulilu Cafe, 451 W Broadway, Vancouver, 604-568-4211, www.facebook.com/pages/Marulilu-Cafe