| rev:text
| - Shame on you negative reviewers! Someone before me wrote that Zen is a benchmark for sushi in Toronto. They couldn't have been more right.
We were served by an outstanding waitress. The owner and master himself made our sushi. He had a kind smile and a skillful hand. As the night progressed - and sparkling sake was consumed in quantity - his sense of humour shone through - he seemed to like our jokes too!
From the moment we entered the door the experience was 5 star. The table wasn't ready until 810 (8pm reso) but a waitress brought us some complimentary plum wine to pass the time.
We ordered the sushi omakase and two bottles of sake. They were the best we've ever drank! Both cold, one sparkling - the drink menu was explained in detail and both bottles were recommended by our knowledgable and enthusiastic waitress.
The 3 appetizers were ingenious. Three perfectly crafted dishes that surprised and impressed. The ~10 pieces of sushi were lovingly prepared and delivered at the perfect pace. Make sure you reserve a seat at the bar. Take in the skill
of these guys and girls. Masters in every sense of the word.
Salmon, tuna, sea bream, shrimp, scallop, yellowtail, firefly squid, fatty tuna hand roll, salmon roe, uni... The Chef asked if he could put the right amount of wasabi in each piece. We said sure! He added some soy. Some citrus rind. Great pickled ginger in between courses.
This was worth every penny spent. Two sushi omakase (3 apps, ~10 pieces, hand roll, and a really great dessert + the complimentary plum wine) left us filled to the perfect level. Actually perfect. The pacing really made it great. Over 2 hours of eating, drinking and admiring the mastery in front of us!
With tax, tip and 2 bottles of great sake - the bill was easily the most we've ever spent on a meal for two, but it was money well spent. The evening was truly memorable and we will be back - after our wallets recover! Don't listen to the others - just book a spot at the counter and enjoy. Make sure you bring someone special who appreciates Japanese cuisine, sake and has a good sense of humour!
|