Wa-Ku Japanese Restaurant

This used to be my go to spot that I've recommended to many friends and co-workers.
Unfortunately the quality and service has gone down while the price keeps going up.
I ordered well ahead of time for pickup to skip a long wait, yet ended up waiting at the front for over 15 minutes even after I showed up later than the time they said it would be ready by.
I waited so long they actually forgot that I already paid and tried to charge me again for it.
I gave it 2 instead of 1 because the food is still pretty good, just not really worth the hassle or price, especially if you order takeout.

It was my first time on a Japanese restaurant, and it was absolutely delicious. The waiter was beautiful, kind and helpful. 10/10 definitely recommend it.

Ordered the seafood champon amongst other items. The scallops in the soup were off (tasted like bleach) and we let our server know right away and we were still charged for the bowl that was inedible.

Chicken Karaage was juicy and perfectly seasoned. Ramen soup was full of flavour. Service was very nice. Will be returning for more!

Visiting from Vancouver and came straight off the ferry. Arrived just before 1pm on a Friday. Ordered the aburi tonkotsu Ramen, added an egg and made it black (roasted garlic) and it did not disappoint. The pork belly slices were nice and thick. Broth was rich and not overly salty. Also had a prawn tempura appetizer which came out piping hot. Service was solid. Wife and daughter enjoyed their meal as well.

The chicken/pork katsu don here is very good! I usually get this and it never disappoints. I have tried the ramen because of all the raving reviews but I just thought it was so-so. Way better ramen in Vancouver in my opinion. The broth was ok and the chashu pieces were dry, unlike the juicy meaty pieces you get at other ramen joints on the mainland.

Overall a great experience.friendly greeting as I entered, server was helpful and nice, and the ramen was delicious.

My only suggestion would be to add a bit more broth to the bowls, which could add a bit more value for the price.

Definitely worth a try if you like ramen and live in Nanaimo

Consistently amazing dishes no matter what I order. Staff is so so kind. I could not recommend it enough!

A sweet hidden gem in Nanaimo. So happy to have found a ramen spot in town after some time. Staff are super friendly, cozy spot for a bite and they don't skimp out on toppings and add ons are well-priced. Overall a wonderful experience and will be returning!

Really good Ramen! So happy we found this little gem. Lots of Japanese goodies and drinks. Small space but very nice and not crowded.

Best Ramen House in Vancouver Island! If you are passing through Nanaimo.it is a must to stop by here!

とても美味しい。本物和食
It​very rare to find authentic Japanese owned restaurants on the island and this is amazing. It bought me back to my days of living in Kanagawa prefecture and is reminiscent of home cooked Japanese food Superb!

Such good ramen! Very friendly staff also!
I live in the Cowichan Valley, and I eat here every time I have any reason to go to Nanaimo.

Food was really good I love there Ramen tonkotsu and takoyaki very scrumptious.
Can't wait to eat there again