REVIEW | Kingyo Izakaya

I don't often find myself at Cabbagetown even though I've heard of Kingyo Izakaya many times from other food bloggers that I've met. The brand originated in Vancouver and opened its Toronto doors in 2012, so my visit is way overdue.  To my delight, Yuki (PekoPekoLife) organized a menu tasting that I wouldn't dare miss out on!

 

 Yuzu Orange Mojito / Doraemon Punch / Pineapple Punch

LAUNCH | Toronto's popular Japanese izakaya rebranded as Kinka Izakaya

Guu Izakaya has been in Toronto quite a while now and Torontonians are probably used to being greeted by the servers' "irashaimase" every time they enter the restaurant. All three locations have been rebranded as Kinka Izakaya as of late but fear not, as they're still serving their signature dishes, and being attentive as ever. I haven't been for a few months and for this visit, I got to taste all my usual favourites and then some.

REVIEW | Yakitori Kintori - izakaya that specializes in yakikushi by KINKA family (creators of Guu, Kinton, Jabistro)

A new izakaya that specializes in Yakitori (skewered & grilled chicken) just opened in Koreatown at Kinton Ramen 2's second floor location.  This is KINKA family's newest restaurant addition in Toronto.  They're best known for the ever-popular Guu izakaya, JaBistro, and Kinton Ramen.  As a huge fan of skewered food, I couldn't wait to try it out.  I made my way there for late dinner during their soft opening.

REVIEW | Kintaro Izakaya - an intimate & cozy yakitori izakaya tucked away on Church Street

Toronto is home to many, many Japanese izakayas, and a lot of them have the loud and lively atmosphere in common - afterall, izakaya is a drinking establishment in Japan.  I do enjoy that atmosphere when going out with friends or having a girls night, but sometimes I prefer a more intimate and cozy environment that allows for conversation over food.  Toronto's Kintaro Izakaya on Church St. that opened in late summer of 2013 was perfect for that.

photo from www.kintaro.ca

REVIEW | Sake Bar Kushi - Midtown Toronto's very own Japanese Izakaya specializing in Kushi

Izakayas (Japanese drinking establishments that also serve food to accompany the drinks) are an onging restaurant trend in Toronto. Sake Bar Kushi, also known as Kushi Izakaya is a newly opened Japanese tapas eatery just a few blocks west of Yonge and Eglinton.  Ever since its opening a few months ago, I have been meaning to try this place as I work in the area.  Last week, I finally made a visit!

REVIEW | Guu Sakabar - Japenese Izakaya experience without going to Japan!

Mondays are always the worst day of the week for me. It’s so hard to wake up in the morning after having relaxed for two days on the weekend. To beat the Monday blues, we decided to head over to Guu Sakabar after work for some catching up.