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| - I came here randomly one night with friends even though I've walked by it a number of times over the 10 years that I've lived nearby. I just never had an inclination to walk in because from the outside, this place looks really "meh". I was quite surprised that the experience inside was nothing like what you'd expect from the outside.
This place is usually full on the weekends and the week nights, but because it's not as well-known as the other izakaya places, you never really have to wait too long. It is a small place, but that gives the entire bar/restaurant that cozy feel. I absolutely adore the servers and the bartenders. They are all very friendly and chatty. Feel free to sit by the bar and strike up a conversation with the bartenders - they all seem like they genuinely like talking to people, and just after coming a few times, we're already on a first-name basis with the staff.
If you're looking for an authentic Japanese izakaya experience, this is the closest thing you'll find in Toronto. Guu/Kinka and all their variants are not what you would typically find in Japan. My only concern is that if this place does become quite popular, the wait times are going to become absurd, as the whole restaurant probably can't fit more than 20 people.
In terms of the food and drinks, they are generally good. Not everything on their menu is "omg fantastic", but they do have a few stand-out dishes: The beef tataki, gyu-tan (grilled beef tongue), udon, ochazuke (porridge), and beef steak are all excellent choices that I would recommend. If you want something really special, order the motsunabe (hot pot) - a perfect dish for the winter and the portions are generous. The bartenders also have a good taste for drinks, and makes excellent cocktails - just ask for some suggestions and I'm sure they'll whip up something great for you. The overall price of the restaurant is fair, and it is slightly cheaper than your average izakaya restaurant in Toronto - but it isn't super cheap either ($30/person for enough food and drinks).
If you ever decide to come here on a weekend, you'll likely find me at the bar with a lot of food in front of me. And yes, I can and will finish them all.
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