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| - When I try new restaurants, I'm always hoping to find that diamond in the rough. And it turns out Nobuya is absolutely one of those pleasant surprises. If you're only going to read the first paragraph, I'll say this - Come here before BlogTO catches wind of the place and permanently packs all the tables.
From outside Nobuya looks like any number of Canadian/Asian restaurants, and my wife and I must have walked by dozens of times without stopping by. After a peek at the menu piqued our interest, we finally went in for a meal and were just blown away.
Where Nobuya shines is in its authenticity. Toronto is dotted with Japanese restaurants, but actual Japanese management and staff is actually quite rare. Nobu, one of the most loveable proprietors I've ever met, is serving up the flavors of his home.
A "Canadian/Japanese" restaurant usually means Japanese food altered for the Canadian palate. However Nobuya sticks true to its roots, and what you'll find is lots of traditional Japanese food and a couple of Canadian favorites with an exciting twist. Two standout examples we tried include the okonomiyaki, which I haven't seen anywhere else in Toronto, and Japanese poutine, which is probably the prettiest plate of poutine I've ever seen. I know "pretty" is a weird adjective to use for poutine, but once you see the assortment of Japanese toppings arranged on top you'll totally understand.
If this restaurant was downtown, you wouldn't get a table. The food is fantastic, immaculately plated, and reasonably priced. However the location often leaves it overlooked. So take advantage. Don't make my mistake of walking by, go in and experience the exciting plates Nobu is whipping up.
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