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This place was recommended by a coworker so we decided to stop by to grab some onigiris. It was nice they had some cold onigiris in a vending machine for a grab and go along with some drinks. We also ordered at the counter for some fresh hot ones to take for the drive. There isn't much seating since it's a small shop but if you aren't into fish they have something for everyone. Our hot orders were made fresh so there was a small wait but definitely worth it.
When I see a place that goes viral I question the validity and in this case, I am happy to say it is well worth the hype. An onigiri vending machine? I had to see it to believe it. This onigiri is fresh! The rice is fantastic. The fillings are delicious. The seaweed flavourful. Every bite has a solid ratio. These are well portioned. The Japanese ladies working here were very understanding when we asked some questions about the menu items. So hospitable! There are a few seats at the window and a table tucked away in the corner. Little hints of Japan all around.
I made a quick stop at Yama onigiri and was in and out within 5 minutes. Overall I was quite disappointed. The spicy tuna onigiri was way too mayo based, with the insides being more like a tuna salad sandwich minus the relish rather than what I imagine in a typical onigiri. If you want a quick bite then yeah it's easy but I'd maybe opt for something else. My fiance enjoyed his scallop onigiri more than my tuna one, but I personally didn't find his much better.
We ended up visiting Yama Onigiri seven times over three days -- that should say it all. The handmade onigiris have fluffy, perfectly cooked rice and are packed with flavor. The pork kimchi was our favorite, but everything we tried was delicious. We also grabbed a few from the vending machine to take with us on the go. The mochi were soft and not too sweet. The chocolate mochi was filled with cream and a rich chocolate mousse, and the matcha tiramisu mochi was wonderful. The matcha latte was perfectly balanced and smooth -- one of the best I've had. Staff was warm, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. I wish there was one where I lived!
My friends and I stopped by Yama Onigiri while exploring downtown Banff, and it ended up being a great find! Even when the shop is closed, you can still purchase onigiri from the vending machine at the front. The vending machine offers a good variety of refrigerated onigiri that are easy to take on the go, especially as a mid-hike snack. When the restaurant is open, you can order warm onigiri inside, and the selection is different from what's available in the machine, so there's plenty of variety to choose from. Everything we tried was flavorful, and the portions were generous for the price. We went back a couple of times to grab more onigiri from the vending machine--l'd definitely recommend checking this place out if you're in the area!
I've been looking forward to getting the onigiri here since my last trip visiting Banff. I ordered the classic tuna mayo, yama bamboo, Hokkaido scallop, and the mochi with anko cream. Everything was delicious! Each onigiri was generously filled with ingredients and packed with flavor. Even the mochi was excellent. It was chewy with a great texture and the filling wasn't overly sweet. It's great to bring on hikes or for a quick lunch. Highly recommend!
This place has AMAZING onigiri, just as good as anything we had in Japan. We each got two, but probably would have been fine with just ordering one. The poke onigiri was definitely our favorite, but there were no misses. The whole ambiance is very authentically Japanese, and was absolutely lovely! Wish we could go back soon!
My husband found out about this place from reading about their vending machine in Canmore so we decided to try out the shop while we were in Banff. I had a Hokkaido scallops and a tuna mayonnaise while my husband picked the pork kimchi and also the tuna mayonnaise for take out. We saw our orders prepared while we waited. Each of our onigiris were meticulously prepared, firmed and wrapped by hand. We took our orders to the food court in a shopping centre next door where it was nice & warm inside. The aroma of warm rice, seaweed and the lightly sweetened soy hit us as soon as we opened the wrappers. The onigiris were huge but it was very soft and fluffy. The flavour of the sea was abundant in my Hokkaido scallops and the tuna mayonnaise had a very nice spicy kick to it. I was foolish to think I could keep one for snack later. They were both consumed quickly. I'm glad we waited for the shop to open at 11:30 for lunch even though we were tired from waking up at 03:15 the same day to travel to Lake Louise from Canmore to make sure we would have a spot at the parking lot by the lake. With our bellies full and happy, we went back to our hotel in Canmore for a very much needed afternoon nap.
I stopped dead in my tracks when I came across this onigiri restaurant and I knew it was on my short list of Banff restaurants to try. And so glad I did. All they do is serve up delicious, seaweed wrapped, packets of deliciousness. There must be some ancient culinary voodoo at work for them to be as good as they are. The place is very cozy, with two people running it. They were both super friendly and interesting to talk with. They were thrilled that my wife was able to converse in Japanese. AND there's a vending machine in the little foyer so you can stop by anytime for onigiri to go. I got some on my way out for late snack or tomorrow's elevenses.
What a gem to discover Yama Onigiri in Banff!! Delicious, authentic onigiri spot with friendly staff. Great spot to buy something quick and easy before heading out on a hike or trek. They serve the hot options inside and a vending machine right by 5$4 front door for cold ones. Prices are reasonable and the employees are so friendly. Minimal seating. Rotating menu. I tried the available Hokkaido Scallop and the two poke tuna options. All SO yummy.
We're so happy to have discovered Yama Onigiri on our last day in Banff!! This little shop on a hidden street in Banff had the friendliest staff and also sold really cool merch. You can order the onigiris hot and fresh inside, or quickly get them cold at the vending machine outside. We ordered: - Classic Tuna Mayo - Wasabi Shrimp - Yuzu Salmon Avocado - Yama Bamboo - Hokkaido Scallop - Hojicha Latte My favourites were the wasabi shrimp and the yama bamboo, although every single one was delicious and flavourful. The rice balls were huge with LOTS of fillings inside. This was such a perfect quick snack before our long drive back to Vancouver!
Who knew Banff has an authentic Japanese shop that sells onigiri (rice balls) and onigirazu (sushi sandwiches)? It was the best I've ever had and I've been to Japan multiple times. There's a vending machine but get it fresh since it tastes the best when it's not refrigerated. I came here multiple times during my trip. My favorite items were the Hokkaido scallop onigiri and the Zuke onigirazu (tuna, avocado, secret sauce). Their hojicha latte was good as well. The staff were the sweetest people and the shop was adorable in general. It's definitely a must visit in Banff!
10 days ago
27 days ago
This Japanese place is a true gem in that food is very good, service is fast and excellent, and is a great value in Banff. We tried the three most popular rice balls and were impressed by the freshness and flavor. The miso soup is not like the kinds found in the states, it's superior in flavor and ingredients. They actually put meat and vegetables in the soup. We also tried the different drinks and mochi desserts, loved them all! So glad to have found this tiny restaurant. read more
I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend making a stop here while you're in Banff! This is hands down the best onigiri I've ever had, and I'm still thinking about it. It's a small shop, but everything is made fresh to order. We tried the Hokkaido scallop, pork kimchi, and tuna mayo onigiri. I seriously cannot get over the rice texture!! It is unbelievably soft and perfectly seasoned. Each onigiri is topped with bonito flakes, wrapped in seaweed, and absolutely packed with flavor. They're also a great size and surprisingly filling. My favorite was the pork kimchi because it had a nice little kick, but honestly, if it's your first time trying onigiri, you can't go wrong with the tuna mayo. We also ordered the Anko Mochi, filled with red bean paste and sweet cream, and you can absolutely tell it's homemade. It was incredible and not overly sweet at all. The mochi itself was perfectly soft and chewy, and I wish I tried more. The iced matcha latte was also excellent. It's lightly sweetened, and the quality of the matcha really stands out. This is such a great spot for breakfast or a quick grab-and-go snack. They also have a vending machine stocked with freshly made onigiri in different flavors. From what I understand, these are meant to be enjoyed cold, while the ones ordered at the counter are served warm and both are ready to eat. I didn't get a chance to try the vending machine options this time, but they're definitely on my list for my next visit! Please, please support Yama Onigiri! They're incredibly kind and welcoming, and more than happy to explain the menu if you have any questions. The shop itself is absolutely adorable, with plenty of seating. They also create their own Banff themed merchandise!! Between the amazing food, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere, this is easily one of my favorite stops in Banff! read more
This place was recommended by a coworker so we decided to stop by to grab some onigiris. It was nice they had some cold onigiris in a vending machine for a grab and go along with some drinks. We also ordered at the counter for some fresh hot ones to take for the drive. There isn't much seating since it's a small shop but if you aren't into fish they have something for everyone. Our hot orders were made fresh so there was a small wait but definitely worth it. read more
When I see a place that goes viral I question the validity and in this case, I am happy to say it is well worth the hype. An onigiri vending machine? I had to see it to believe it. This onigiri is fresh! The rice is fantastic. The fillings are delicious. The seaweed flavourful. Every bite has a solid ratio. These are well portioned. The Japanese ladies working here were very understanding when we asked some questions about the menu items. So hospitable! There are a few seats at the window and a table tucked away in the corner. Little hints of Japan all around. read more
5 months ago
I made a quick stop at Yama onigiri and was in and out within 5 minutes. Overall I was quite disappointed. The spicy tuna onigiri was way too mayo based, with the insides being more like a tuna salad sandwich minus the relish rather than what I imagine in a typical onigiri. If you want a quick bite then yeah it's easy but I'd maybe opt for something else. My fiance enjoyed his scallop onigiri more than my tuna one, but I personally didn't find his much better. read more
29 days ago
We ended up visiting Yama Onigiri seven times over three days -- that should say it all. The handmade onigiris have fluffy, perfectly cooked rice and are packed with flavor. The pork kimchi was our favorite, but everything we tried was delicious. We also grabbed a few from the vending machine to take with us on the go. The mochi were soft and not too sweet. The chocolate mochi was filled with cream and a rich chocolate mousse, and the matcha tiramisu mochi was wonderful. The matcha latte was perfectly balanced and smooth -- one of the best I've had. Staff was warm, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. I wish there was one where I lived! read more
6 months ago
My friends and I stopped by Yama Onigiri while exploring downtown Banff, and it ended up being a great find! Even when the shop is closed, you can still purchase onigiri from the vending machine at the front. The vending machine offers a good variety of refrigerated onigiri that are easy to take on the go, especially as a mid-hike snack. When the restaurant is open, you can order warm onigiri inside, and the selection is different from what's available in the machine, so there's plenty of variety to choose from. Everything we tried was flavorful, and the portions were generous for the price. We went back a couple of times to grab more onigiri from the vending machine--l'd definitely recommend checking this place out if you're in the area! read more
I've been looking forward to getting the onigiri here since my last trip visiting Banff. I ordered the classic tuna mayo, yama bamboo, Hokkaido scallop, and the mochi with anko cream. Everything was delicious! Each onigiri was generously filled with ingredients and packed with flavor. Even the mochi was excellent. It was chewy with a great texture and the filling wasn't overly sweet. It's great to bring on hikes or for a quick lunch. Highly recommend! read more
This place has AMAZING onigiri, just as good as anything we had in Japan. We each got two, but probably would have been fine with just ordering one. The poke onigiri was definitely our favorite, but there were no misses. The whole ambiance is very authentically Japanese, and was absolutely lovely! Wish we could go back soon! read more
My husband found out about this place from reading about their vending machine in Canmore so we decided to try out the shop while we were in Banff. I had a Hokkaido scallops and a tuna mayonnaise while my husband picked the pork kimchi and also the tuna mayonnaise for take out. We saw our orders prepared while we waited. Each of our onigiris were meticulously prepared, firmed and wrapped by hand. We took our orders to the food court in a shopping centre next door where it was nice & warm inside. The aroma of warm rice, seaweed and the lightly sweetened soy hit us as soon as we opened the wrappers. The onigiris were huge but it was very soft and fluffy. The flavour of the sea was abundant in my Hokkaido scallops and the tuna mayonnaise had a very nice spicy kick to it. I was foolish to think I could keep one for snack later. They were both consumed quickly. I'm glad we waited for the shop to open at 11:30 for lunch even though we were tired from waking up at 03:15 the same day to travel to Lake Louise from Canmore to make sure we would have a spot at the parking lot by the lake. With our bellies full and happy, we went back to our hotel in Canmore for a very much needed afternoon nap. read more
I stopped dead in my tracks when I came across this onigiri restaurant and I knew it was on my short list of Banff restaurants to try. And so glad I did. All they do is serve up delicious, seaweed wrapped, packets of deliciousness. There must be some ancient culinary voodoo at work for them to be as good as they are. The place is very cozy, with two people running it. They were both super friendly and interesting to talk with. They were thrilled that my wife was able to converse in Japanese. AND there's a vending machine in the little foyer so you can stop by anytime for onigiri to go. I got some on my way out for late snack or tomorrow's elevenses. read more
What a gem to discover Yama Onigiri in Banff!! Delicious, authentic onigiri spot with friendly staff. Great spot to buy something quick and easy before heading out on a hike or trek. They serve the hot options inside and a vending machine right by 5$4 front door for cold ones. Prices are reasonable and the employees are so friendly. Minimal seating. Rotating menu. I tried the available Hokkaido Scallop and the two poke tuna options. All SO yummy. read more
We're so happy to have discovered Yama Onigiri on our last day in Banff!! This little shop on a hidden street in Banff had the friendliest staff and also sold really cool merch. You can order the onigiris hot and fresh inside, or quickly get them cold at the vending machine outside. We ordered: - Classic Tuna Mayo - Wasabi Shrimp - Yuzu Salmon Avocado - Yama Bamboo - Hokkaido Scallop - Hojicha Latte My favourites were the wasabi shrimp and the yama bamboo, although every single one was delicious and flavourful. The rice balls were huge with LOTS of fillings inside. This was such a perfect quick snack before our long drive back to Vancouver! read more
Very cute onigiri store, complete with a vending machine in the entry for when their restaurant is closed! Super fresh onigiri made to order, and delicious matcha and hojicha. Felt like I was back in Japan! Friendly staff and quick wait for the freshly made food and drinks. read more
9 months ago
Who knew Banff has an authentic Japanese shop that sells onigiri (rice balls) and onigirazu (sushi sandwiches)? It was the best I've ever had and I've been to Japan multiple times. There's a vending machine but get it fresh since it tastes the best when it's not refrigerated. I came here multiple times during my trip. My favorite items were the Hokkaido scallop onigiri and the Zuke onigirazu (tuna, avocado, secret sauce). Their hojicha latte was good as well. The staff were the sweetest people and the shop was adorable in general. It's definitely a must visit in Banff! read more
Amazing. Better than the stuff they serve back in my area they call Japanese Village. Yes, its pricier than your average rice ball but this ain't your average rice ball. Small menu, focused flavor and ingredients. Nice service true to Japanese hospitality. read more
I was surprised to find such a quaint onigiri shop in the middle of Banff and satisfied my onigiri cravings! Ambience: 5/5 reminds me so much of the shops in Japan. At the entrance, there is a vending machine selling ready-to-go packaged onigiris, Japanese sodas, and some artisan stickers. Seating was limited but we were able to fit our party of 8 in two small corner tables. Off to the side were some small stacks of origami paper and a small selection of manga -- really nice touch to the overall ambience and to help you pass time while waiting for your freshly made to go onigiri. Service: 5/5 the making of the onigiri took some time but there was only one person making the food and one at the register who was also simultaneously bringing out and bussing the dishes so I didn't mind waiting! Our waiter, who also manned the register, told us he just started recently and you can tell he was so nervous! But he was so sweet and polite when taking our orders and getting us our food/drinks (we had a large party and kept placing new orders because we couldn't get enough!) and was very appreciative when we helped bus our dishes/trays for our large party. Food: 4/5 rice was a little overcooked and would have liked it to be seasoned a bit more with rice vinegar/mirin but otherwise the fillings were delicious and seasoned well. I got the Hokkaido scallop, pork kimchi, chicken teriyaki and tuna onigiris as well as the specialty poke tuna onigirazu -- pork kimchi was my favorite (sadly did not get a photo before I devoured it). The raw tuna was not bad, pretty fresh and not fishy. For dessert I got the strawberry matcha mochi and the texture of the mochi was soft and chewy but the strawberry cream filling was a bit too sweet for my taste. I think it would have been nice to have stronger matcha flavor either in the mochi or add to the cream filling for the bitterness to balance out the heavy sweetness of the cream. As for drinks, I got the Hokkaido latte which was nothing special. It lacked the strong roasted tea flavor I usually prefer/look for and tasted more like milk. Overall, if I was ever back in Banff or knew someone visiting I would highly recommend that they come by for a convenient lunch/snack! read more
11 months ago
This was such a nice spot to find! We wanted some quick takeout food and this definitely did the job. I tried the scallop, pork kimchi, and tuna mayo kimbaps. They were all really good, but I think I liked the pork kimchi the best. The scallop was grilled in butter which I thought made the flavor a little too strong and heavy for an onigiri. They are also super generous with the portion size - they are massive! read more
Super tasty! It was a bummer they were out of stock on a few. The scallop was my favorite! The veggie was good too. My partner liked his pork one. The server was very sweet and friendly. It's a cool spot for a snack but not too much seating. We did grab and go a few times. read more
Nice small restaurant. Very cute inside. Nicely decorated with sake on the wall. We ordered some tuna, chicken, scallop, bamboo onigiri rice balls and matcha lattes. Very authentic flavor and delicious. Service was great. They also provided water to drink at table. No public restrooms I don't think. read more
10 months ago
Did not expect to find such a hidden gem in Banff but Yama Onigiri totally surprised us. The onigiri was so good we went back several times during our trip. We also tried the hojicha and matcha strawberry drinks and would highly recommend both. Cozy little spot, super friendly staff, and the perfect stop for a quick snack or drink while exploring Banff. Service: 10/10 so nice! Seating: 9/10 not too big, usually spots open up Food: 10/10 every onigiri option! Drinks: 10/10 hojicha latte, strawberry matcha read more
8 months ago
Amazing onigiri! Scallops and bamboo are my absolute favorite - but I haven't tried one that I do not like. Wish I could eat this everyday! read more
2 months ago
4 months ago
10 months ago
I was just there 30 minutes ago and couldn't wait to write this review! I picked up three onigiri: teriyaki chicken, spicy tuna, and kimchi pork and devoured them as soon as I got back to my hotel. They were still warm and perfectly wrapped, so I had to dive in right away! What really stood out was how generous they are with the filling. So many onigiri I've had elsewhere are mostly rice, but these were packed with flavor in every single bite. Each one was absolutely delicious. If you're thinking about trying them, do it! Support this awesome small business. You won't be disappointed. read more
7 months ago
The food is incredible, everything was 10/10. Highly recommend this wonderful stop. The staff and service is also wonderful. read more
8 months ago
10 months ago
10 months ago
Portion size is huge! Everything is delicious! There is a comfortable corner to eat in and mangas to read while waiting. What a wonderful little spot! read more
1 year ago
Stumbled upon this shop when it was closed so we made it a point to stop on our way to the airport to pick up some snacks for the plane ride home. Didn't realize we would clear customs at Calgary airport but we happily gobbled up the amazing onigiri at the security checkpoint and let me just say that I really wish we had a place like this back home. The shop was so cute, the staff was so friendly, and both hot and cold (from the vending machine) options were sooo tasty. Also, I could have one of their iced strawberry matchas every day if I could. Great portable snack for a hike too. Definitely recommending this place to all my friends visiting Banff and will be back again in the future! read more
11 months ago
7 months ago
11 months ago
More info about Yama Onigiri
306 Marten Street
Banff, AB T1L 1A1
Canada
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http://www.yama-onigiri.com
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Yama Onigiri - japanese - Updated July 2026
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