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| - Dang, this place is *busy*.. even at 9-10pm - there's a wait. That's ok, it was worth it. Kind of a sketch part of town, lots of hobos on the street, etc. but it's just off of Queen and pretty busy so safe enough. Inside - small, very dark (anyone else care that they can't really see their food that well?), but surprisingly devoid of the stereotypical hipsters - maybe one or two here or there, but otherwise just normal people, a little on the younger side.
Service was great, sat on the windowsill and enjoyed a beer while waiting for a table. Prices were admittedly on the high side considering the portions - but not completely outrageous. Most dishes were between $4 and $7.. So on to the food..
PAPUSA vegetarian - not quite sure what was in this, but it was a little crispy roll with some veggies inside, possibly topped with beets? Again, hard to tell in the dark, and the menus don't really explain much. But it was definitely tasty 4.5/5.
SPICY TUNA HAND ROLL - the BEST dish hands down. Had to order a second one. The crispy bits inside gave it a nice crunchy texture and the whole thing was just mouthwatering. Get. 5/5.
KOREAN FRIED CHICKEN - pretty good, nice crispy surface texture, buttery inside. A little strong on the ginger in terms of flavour, but short of overpowering.. 4/5
STEAK TARTARE - served on a couple little pieces of seasoned toast. For me, I would have much preferred unseasoned starch for this dish. I could barely discern the tartare flavours from the toast. Pass on this one.. 2/5
OYSTERS - sadly, the serving staff forgot about these and we never got them. Too bad - so no rating on the food, and a slight ding on the service..
Overall, I enjoyed it. Nice ambience, though a bit too dark and definitely too loud (speaking at normal volume was not in the cards), a little pricey, but the eats are definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared to wait for a seat!
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