For obvious reasons I had high hopes coming in here and I was not disapointed! While it takes second place for me compared with Guu Izakaya, Sakabar still managed to be a 5 star experience for me from it's food, service and atmosphere. Came here around 6 ot 7 on a Friday night and didn't have to wait at all with the "Japanese" seating section being almost empty. I'm not sure why because the Japanese seating area is certainly the place to be. You take off your shoes and are more comfy in your socks (thank god no one had smelly socks while I was there) and the food there certainly rocks.
For 3 of us we ordered around 8 or 9 dishes and let very satisfied without feeling a heavy effect on our wallets. I can't recall everything we ordered but I remember the bibimbap being extremely tasty.
Since we were a little ways off from the kitchen, the atmosphere here didn't seem as loud and alive as in Izakaya but compared to any other restaurant the atmosphere was still very lively and enjoyable.
This is exactly what I enjoy about dining out in Toronto, exciting meals, great service, good food and a great location.
I can't wait to see what else the people behind Guu has in store for Toronto!