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Sushi Kaji Restaurant
Category: Restaurants Sushi Bars Sushi Bars [Edit]
860 The QueenswayEtobicoke, ON M8Z 1N7
Neighbourhood: Etobicoke
(416) 252-2166
- Hours:
Wed-Sun 6 pm - 9 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
38 reviews for Sushi Kaji Restaurant
Review Highlights
"Choose from 3 omakase menus, $80, 100 or 120."
(in 14 reviews)
"If I ever find myself in Toronto, I'll be sure to stop here..."
(in 10 reviews)
"The marinated sardines was among my favourite cooked dishes."
(in 3 reviews)
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38 reviews in English
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Review from Reynold P.
Toronto, ON
1/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
Islington station? What's at Islington station? Is that on the Bloor or Yonge line?
Then we have to cab? Why? When do we have to leave?
I asked a tsunami of questions and hurled them at my girlfriend. She smiled and said, "I'm excited... you'll like it!"
She knows me so so well now. She knows what type of cuisine I adore. She knows that I respect the ratings on Yelp. After much research and time, she planned a magical evening for two at a cozy Japanese Restaurant called Kaji.
Omakase! she said. Only 2 choices... $100 annnnnnd $120. As though she knew I was hungry, as though she knew I awaited this moment to come...
We get there by subway, then a 8 minute taxi ride from Islington station. It was a small restaurant, kinda in the middle of no where. I expected it to be like this, after all, we were in Etobicoke. After getting our coats hung, we sat at the bar right in front of the action. It was amazing to see such skill, precision and detail to the master's movements. The way he packed the rice into the molds, placed the seared eel on top and brushed it delicately with sweet soy and mirin, it was bliss.
We decided to order one of each of the Omakase options so that we could both try a bit of everything. The Omakase options are different. Each have unique starters and middles in between sashimi and sushi/noodle rounds. We liked the $100 Omakase dishes over all. You receive a couple less dishes but the tastes and flavours were preferred.
If you're seeking perfection in food, presentation and flavour, then Kaji is your destination. I wondered why the dining experience was at a premium, but it made sense as each course was presented before us. A unique combination of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavours flooded our taste buds with every morsel.
For me, the sashimi plate was the ultimate treat. Salmon, tuna, snapper, lobster, octopus with fresh grated wasabi root. If you haven't tried fresh wasabi before, make it a goal in the new year. The heat and flavour are tremendously different than it's paste or powder counterpart, in a good way. Anyways, the sashimi was fresh beyond belief. Silky, melt in your mouth, and oceanic, it was heaven with each bite. I actually moaned with each bite. We commented on the beauty and sophistication of each dish. Thought and well-preparation went into all the courses. You could immediately tell by each distinct component/ingredient that they used had a purpose. The shredded radish, the knotted burdock root, the shiso leaf, etc. they awaken your taste buds but also impart a twist of essence.
Overall, Kaji introduced me to an experience I've never had before. It was a special meal for me, besides it being my birthday. It was the first time I tried uni, it was the first time I had impeccably fresh sashimi, it was the first time I had a structured adventure from plate to bowl. If anything, the food justifies the price. When will you ever have so many memorable firsts in one night? I personally lost count myself, but I had the time of my life.Listed in: The Best Of Toronto...
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Review from Julia J.
Toronto, ON
1/12/2012
this one is my favourite japanese resto in the city. it's a pricey place to dine at but you do get about 8-10 course meal for aaround 80 to 120 dollars (depending on which set you choose) and probably the best fish and other japanese treats that you wouldn't find anywhere else in Toronto.
The food is VERY authentic. None of this teriyaki and california roll stuff here.
The servers are very well versed in japanese food and the daily selection. and the chef has been featured on alot of shows and interviews.
If you're looking for a different and a none north americanized japanese dining experience, try this place and you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Leslie W.
Updated - 12/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
THIS. PLACE. GOT. RENOVATED!
With the new renos, the bar area has been significantly enlarged and now seats approximately 12 people (versus 6 from before)!!! This has really transformed the space into an open kitchen concept and gives you better vantage points to watch chef Kaji live. The overall capacity likely remains the same. They've also replaced the boring dry wall with black stones and large inlaid murals of Japanese calligraphy. Gone is the ghetto-chic look of yore, but if you look carefully, their kitschy mustard colour table covers remain. My only knock on Kaji was always the drab interior, but with these new renos, can I give it 6 stars yet?!
And yes, the food, as always was supreme - taste, texture, presentation and creativity. My well-traveled-and-dined cousins from abroad were mightily impressed and my dining partner - who's quite sensitive to that "fishy" smell - scarfed everything down. I can't wait to go back once my piggy bank's full again!2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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9/20/2011
I've been back twice since my original review. All three experiences have been delightfully… Read more »
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Review from Pauline W.
Thornhill, ON
2/14/2012
Kaji Sushi is one of the best sushi restaurants in Canada, it is located on Queensway in Etobicoke.
Once you've tried there, it will surely change your perception on Japanese food. Mitsuhiro Kaji is a very fun person to talk to, the service was very good.
As mentioned by Mitsuhiro Kaji, most of his ingredients are flown directly from Japan with his fish being received within 24 hours from when the fish left the water. There's 3 choices to choose from in the menu ranging from $80-$120 per person.
I was amazed with the food when it arrived at the table, all dishes were so unique just like a piece of art.
Strongly recommend this restaurant to everyone who loves Japanese Food. Yes, the cost is very expensive but it's all worth it !!! -
Review from Esther A.
Etobicoke, ON
12/13/2011
I love this place. Best Japanese restaurant in Toronto. Amazing omakase - delicious fresh food presented very beautifully. We got the $120 option and left in awe and really full. This is a great place to go to for a special occasion. Well worth the splurge.
Service was good and the interior is meh but you come here for the food! -
Review from Angela H.
Mississauga, ON
11/20/2011
We went for my birthday, and it was awesome.Sushi Kaji tastes like Japan.
I was reluctant at first because we could only get counter seating, and sometimes at fancy places like this I worry that I'll do something wrong, or offend the chef. Instead, the vibe was very relaxed (but still professional), very chill and I didn't get the "hoo shi shi" feeling at all.
Loved every course-I suggest that if you are here with a dining companion that you choose one of each omakase menu that way you can share. We didn't follow my own advice, I only realized afterwards that we should have done so to have some more variety.
It's expensive but well worth the experience. At least it's cheaper than flying to Japan! -
Review from C P.
Mississauga, ON
10/24/2011
I love this place!!!! Expensive, but worth it! Ii thought I'd be hungry after having the omakase due to the smaller portions, but I was stuffed.
The restaurant isn't in a chic neighbourhood, but they deliver such amazing dishes.
You need to go. Now. -
Review from Wendy A.
North York, ON
2/7/2012
great place to dine in. Always fresh and friendly service. the only down side is the parking but that's a problem can be easily avoided by using public transportation.
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Review from Q H.
North York, ON
12/4/2011
One of my favorite restaurants in Toronto along with Opus, Serra, Colborne, Jacob's, etc. I won't say much since I would like to let the foods do the talking. But I have to tell you that each dish has thrill and anticipation. Drama and emotions. Whether sushi is fresh or whether the rice isn't too sticky on the rolls is not the concern at Sushi Kaji. Or whether they have best ingredients or whether they make everything from scratch is not the problem at Sushi Kaji either. But it is how much emotional impact each dish gives you and how much closer it is to an art. The foods have so much finesse, elegance and creative construction behind them. Flavors don't explode in your mouth. But rather, they are absorbed and become part of your body in a very smooth manner. The balance between ingredients are amazing and tastes are exquisite. And the presentation is just work of art. I just want to hang each dish on the wall.
This is the only restaurant where I have felt that I was treated like a king. And I am not exaggerating. Servers being attentive and nice is not the right description. They actually seem to read the customers' minds, and satisfy their demands right way. The servers were also very personable and relaxing to be around. They answer your questions in a very detailed and friendly manner, not in a formal and upright way. The atmosphere is a bit pale with minimalistic decors and white lighting. It does have Japanese restaurant feel to it. I'm talking about actual Japanese restaurant in Japan. Calm and tranquil. A bit muted but substantial. And I'm saying this as someone who actually dined at some restaurants in Japan.
Mr. Kaji himself is very a very nice person. He asks how the dinner was, and whether we want more. We always say no, but I'm sure he would prepare some extra dishes if we say we are not full yet. After all "omakase" means "up to you" in Japanese. The tradition is that the chef keeps giving you foods until you say stop. I would love him to serve me food all day long, but there are other customers waiting to experience his work.
The consistency is amazing. I've been to restaurant 5 or 6 times past several years. One dining experience wasn't better than another. But they were all different. The menu is like a Christmas present. You have to open it to know what you're getting, and you will never be disappointed. -
Review from Anna G.
Outstanding! Freshest sashimi I've ever tasted, great tasting menu and unpretentious friendly atmosphere... my fav sushi place in TO now. We got the chef to drink sake with us - he's quite a joker! All staff is very friendly and love to chat! We recommend engaging the cooks for an even better experience! My bf's fav is steamed eggplant stuffed chicken soup, hands down. Mine is the sashimi plate ... it's actually hard to use chopsticks as the fish is so fresh! Loved it!
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Review from Ken S.
Mississauga, ON
6/27/2011 20 photos
Kaji Sushi is one of the premiere sushi establishments in Canada, even though it is located in a unimpressive strip mall on The Queensway. What makes it so special? Well Mitsuhiro Kaji does. He is the chef who owns the restaurant and supports my theory that the majority of sushi lovers in the GTA have never actually tried sushi.
Going there will change your perception of Japanese food, sushi and frankly your palate. Ask alot of questions and socialize as Mitsuhiro Kaji is fun and enjoys the conversation.
Most of his ingredients are flown from Japan with his fish being received in his restaurant 24 hours from when the fish left the water. Nothing is kept overnight. How can he do this? Well his menu has only 3 options serving an Omakase style dinner or a tasting menu. You pick the amount of courses you want and you leave it up to the chef to see what you get. Omakase is the only way to eat really.
House made egg tofu in a bonito broth
Grilled taro potato with 3 sauces.
The sashimi course served with the head of the shrimp still moving.
Everytime this course was brought to the table, ladies would cackle with delight and awe.
Beautiful, sweet translucent Botan shrimp
Fish ball in broth
Glazed Japanese eggplant with dashi sauce. Tender and sweet.
Suzuki fish and crab grilled in a spring roll paper with ponzu. Just beautiful.
Sushi courses. Kaji's rice was sweet, still warm creating a perfect contrast to the cool fish
Noodles in broth
In short, visit Kaji and visit often to have a true Japanese experience. -
Review from wendy c.
5/19/2011
An amazing and truly authentic Japanese restaurant. How authentic, their website tells you "We do not serve "popular Japanese food" like "California roll" and "Teriyaki", we will be pleased to introduce you to the real Japanese food culture". Way to go!
It serves omakase style, so you pick how much you'd like to eat (3 price levels), and trust Master Kaji to prepare the best food he can based on what ingredients he has. A little suspense and surprise adds to your dining experience, you'd rarely be disappointed with what's put in front of you.
Always popular with Japanese business travellers, it is now getting a lot of buzz from other corporate card funded diners and locals, I hope it keeps up the quality (unlike the uber popular Tojo in Vancouver, which became the victim of its own popularity and fame) -
Review from S S.
Toronto, ON
8/5/2011 5 photos
Went here for my birthday...hands down the best sushi I've had in Toronto (also the most expensive)! They only have Omakase (ranging from $80-120pp), but you will be well satiated! If you come on your own or in a couple, I recommend making a reservation to sit at the bar...so you can see the "master" at work. The tables are better for a more intimate experience. Ambiance is very simple, but the service was very attentive.
The fish is flown in fresh from Japan in the morning---you can taste the difference! The presentation was gorgeous, with all the cooked dishes, sushi and veggies prepared very delicately.
Best toro, trout and yellowtail I've had! The marinated sardines was among my favourite cooked dishes.
If you have a special occasion and want sushi (or you can afford high-end sushi anytime), I highly recommend. Just allot 1.5-2h for dinner (after all, there are 7-9 courses!) -
Review from Eric M.
Etobicoke, ON
1/11/2012
Expensive, but fantastic food
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Review from Maxine S.
Montréal, QC
9/7/2011
Remains my number 1 omakase in canada.
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Review from Stella N.
Toronto, ON
8/8/2011
I went here for my birthday about a year ago and I loved it. By the fifth course in my nine course dinner I was feeling a tad full, so I ate slower, trying to finish the large proportions. I don't remember much about this place, asides from the fact that I loved eating there. It may be the best sushi place I've eaten at, but I don't find it a field I can explore much. To me, sushi is sushi. I have to eat really slowly and concentrate so I can enjoy it properly. So no, I probably wouldn't go here again for a fancy event if it can save my parents so much money.
My dining experience was nice. The place is a darkly lit small area, but I still found it nice. There was a little "window" of paper at the wall, and my parents joked about poking it and looking inside like some Chinese perverts did in shows.
There is a table where you can sit to watch a man make food I suppose, and at one point, we saw a run away tiny crab! I ate one like it earlier, but it was fried as I recall. It seems to be the only thing I recall eating asides from when we were to have the sushi plates, and more and more kept coming, stunning my parents and I because we ate all of them to realize we had more courses coming, and we only ate half the sushi with almost full tummies.
At the end of my birthday dinner, someone came out with a bouquet of flowers made out of assorted vegetables on the chef I suppose. I got a look of envy from the girl who sat with the run away crab. It was beautiful, and right away I questioned how long it would last. Not as long as I wished, but it was nice while it lasted. -
Review from Sean M.
Etobicoke, ON
7/30/2011
Easily the best in the West End!
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Review from Catherine L.
Toronto, ON
5/19/2010
I will echo the other reviewers - wow.
Sushi Kaji is certainly not your everyday sushi place at the $80 - $120 per person price-point, and I got treated here for a recent birthday. I had been wanting to try it ever since my Japanese co-worker told me this is the best Japanese restaurant in Toronto - a recommendation I put a lot of stock in.
What I didn't expect is the inventive-ness of the menu - it really was a great tasting menu. I think I still enjoyed the sashimi the most - the raw tiger shrimp with cream sauce was AMAZING! But I didn't expect everything else - the cream coffee mousse, the abalone - I could go on and on but as another reviewer mentioned, the menu changes frequently so there's really no point. Just go with an open mind and enjoy!
As a frame of reference, I would rank it up there with Morimoto in NYC - the only other restaurant that I would say would come close. I guess the main difference is the decor - this one is unassuming - I found it hardly different from a sushi restaurant that servers $10 bento boxes, while Morimoto looks and feels expensive. The service was neutral - decent but not outstanding. But in all, a great choice when celebrating a special occasion for a very memorable meal! -
Review from David S.
Toronto, ON
2/15/2010 13 photos
We've been looking forward to this one for quite awhile. Since it was Valentines day, we figured it would be an appropriate event to splurge for some highly-rated Omakase! We arrived to our reservation and was seated immediately. First impressions, place is very small, dark, and quaint. The location is quite odd, it's in Etobicoke on Queensway, literally down the street from Ikea if that helps you visualize. All the staff are Japanese - immediate points for that!
The daily menu is presented to you with the chef's selections for each set. We went for the $100/person "Waza" set. Best choice in my opinion as it's just enough food to make you full. We witnessed another table belt out bloated sighs as they were unable to finish their $120/person dinner. If you're a big eater then maybe that's for you. Also, if there's an item on the menu which you don't like you may kindly ask the chef to substitute. We totally took advantage of this as we don't like Uni.
Each and every dish was beautifully prepared and presented to us at a steady pace. We never waited too long in between dishes. The temperature, presentation, choice of ingredients complemented everything served. The Sushi and Sashimi we had was fan-!@#-tastic. Their lobster sashimi - the BOMB. We had a bamboo dish with a sweet miso sauce - LOVED IT. Beef wrapped burdock - YUMM. Of course, we had to wash it all down with the requisite Sake! (check out the uploaded pictures for more detail).
At this point of the review, I would give Kaji five stars.
Now let's talk about the service. We never had any introductory conversation on the Omakase experience. Nobody told us about the ingredients or the chef's choices. We were simply asked what we wanted to order. We decided to turn it into a bit of humor by impersonating the chairman from Iron Chef and introduced our own meals after they arrived! Normally, I don't nitpick at things like this but after reviewing other Yelpers testimonies I kinda expected warm conversation or maybe a story on how they flew in their fish. We got nothing! I wouldn't say it was cold but more like neutral. Soon as we paid, we never saw the wait staff again. Simply put, we just expected more.
This brings my rating to 4.5 stars. However, this wasn't enough to lower the overall rating as Kaji-san's food is top-tier. So 5 stars and I hope we get a more personal experience the next time we visit. -
Review from Andrew K.
Toronto, ON
8/6/2009
I have to say that when all is said and done, even though the food is really great, the value just wasn't there.
I really liked the experience of the Omakase-style of restaurant, and the delicious (but small) dishes for a unique taste experience-- but at the end of the day, it's fish, and by law it has to be frozen or cooked.
For the amount of money we spent on this evening out we could go to our local Sushi place and be FULL of great mid-range sashimi and sushi about 8 times. When I look at that kind of value, this place doesn't hold up.
The two stars are because the food is actually very well done, and presentation is excellent, and service is impeccable. Jonathan W's comment about 'no regard for the final bill' must be a nice way to live. Here on earth, I'd rather go somewhere else. -
Review from art f.
Toronto, ON
10/15/2011
i've only been once, but the food is exceptional - the best japanese in toronto. actually, better than many good japanese places in japan.
as for the price, you know what you're getting into. -
Review from Ken Y.
4/4/2011 4 photos
This is actually the 2nd time we've hit Kaji (the first was a memorable enough experience to try again :-)
There are 3 levels of menus, basically, small, medium, and large. There is no overlap, so we did one each of the medium and large (no idea how people can not finish the large omakase...it wasn't *that* much food...but enough). The first time we went was during the summer and there was a different variety of fresh ingredients (including live sweet shrimp), so that may have been a big reason we saw almost no duplicates of the menu items. There were so many great things we tried that I'm just going to cover our highlights :-)
The japanese egg custard was amazingly smooth and topped w/ fresh uni. There were a lot of japanese herbs in the various dishes that one of the people we went with (he's from japan) explained to us and the herbs added a nice touch to each of the dishes. The yuzu jelly on top of the raw oyster was a great alternative to the typical hot sauce at oyster bars. The toro scraped off the bones was amazing (makes me wish we didn't waste it with the tuna we caught a few years ago)-:
Even the udon noodle soup was refreshingly fresh tasting. The citrus custard w/ fruit dessert was refreshingly light, and the espresso jelly cup satisfied the coffee-holics (this was the only repeat dish we rememberred from last time).
The only negative we had was the tea was typical of sushi restaurants. Our japanese friend had corrupted our taste buds by showing us how green tea is supposed to be prepared (you use a cooling container and a tea soaking container so you don't burn the tea leaves), so it was obvious to us that the tea leaves were burnt or had been sitting too long in hot water :-P
Overall, a great experience again and chow-worthy for an experience with a japanese master chef. Apparently, word is getting around. The previous time we went, half the restaurant was filled with japanese businessmen, but this time, most diners were non-japanese. -
Review from Danyal C.
1/21/2010
I've eaten a lot of sushi and this my friends is the best I've had on this continent. I had the full $120 course and am still in awe of the quality and flavor of all of his dishes. I was told that all of his fish is flown in bi-weekly. Whatever happens to be in season at the time.
You get approximately 3 or 4 small appetizers followed by a sashimi platter then the sushi plate. Two more "heartier" courses then a dessert. Both my date and I had two different desserts, so we got to taste each others.
The restaurant is warmly lit and was a little tricky to find because of its small size but well worth its expensive price. If I ever find myself in Toronto, I'll be sure to stop here again. The only thing I'd change is I'd sit at the bar this time to witness Kaji-san work his magic! -
Review from Jason K.
10/15/2010
there are more than enough pictures and posts raving about sushi kaji. so i wont add the the already countless reviews... hands down, the omakase is really really good. sitting at the sushi bar is also very enjoyable. being in the thick of the action and having the chance to chat with the sushi chefs is always a great thing.
this place would have gotten 5 stars had it not be for kaji-san himself.
he was working behind the sushi bar that night, and his loud personality got louder and louder as each table in the place seemingly kept sending him a glass of sake in appreciation. by the end of our meal, i'd say he was in a very happy place.
however, that's where his behaviour starting changing. kaji-san is a bit of a perv. gomen nasai kaji-san, but you are. your awkward and attempts at comedy as you hugged your female patrons was truly gross. and the worst of it was that you only leered and demonstrated lewd behaviour at the non-asian females. my SO is a beautiful woman, and when you tried to put her coat on for her in that creepy way, i'm glad she stiff-armed you, and asked you politely to hand her the coat. your staff was openly embarassed at your behaviour and was very apologetic. alas, that is the japanese way. hierarchy rules - and you dont call out your boss.
interestingly enough, when that group of 4 japanese ex-pats came by to thank you, you bowed and showed them the typical respect that you can witness everyday in japan.
i am not trying to burst any bubbles about this place. it's a great restaurant with fantastic food - and would recommend it hands down. i just wanted to put the awareness out there in the yelp world. -
Review from K F.
1/9/2011 9 photos
The food is wonderful: each dish has its own distinct taste (sauce) and texture, and makes each dish unique; the seafood is very fresh; each sauce is seasoned perfectly; the sushi rice is seasoned perfectly and packed at the optimal density.
However, for the price of $80, $100, or $120, I would expect the fish to be slightly more exotic, and not just tuna, tai, spanish mackerel, etc. Maybe I am spoiled living close to the sea? -
Review from Rebecca R.
9/7/2010 1 photo
I've never had fresher, more masterfully prepared sushi anywhere. Nobu and Morimoto's dishes are delicious and beautiful. The Hump in Los Angeles is fearless and inventive. But the fish at this small, humble restaurant is the very soul of the ocean. The place is packed. But a reservation is easily obtained--even on short notice. Choose from 3 omakase menus, $80, 100 or 120. Don't worry, you'll be happy with whichever menu you choose. Sit at the sushi bar if you can to observe the good-humored Kaji at work.
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Review from Nick P.
Toronto, ON
8/21/2010
For the record, Kaji is an outstanding resto. I have gone three times and happily "surrendered myself to the chef", as there is NO MENU. You can pick between two options, one at $80 and the other at $120. The location and the decor are really poor. My only real complaint is the consistency and cost. The dining room is a shoe box, and I wish i had an interior shot to post here. The wine and drink list are simply inadequate for diners at this pricing point. Lastly, they can be inconsistent and slow. Try it once definitely.
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Review from Gordon S.
Markham, ON
2/27/2011 5 photos
My friends and I have a yearly ritual to explore restaurants around the Toronto region and this year Kaji was the one.
Throughout the $120 meal, we thought it was just simple food that didn't really stand out or surprise us at all. That is exactly what they are selling! Try eating sushi anywhere else after a couple days, images of kaji sashimi and sushi will just pop in your mind telling you that it just isn't the same.
Kaji was definitely an awesome experience. I'll let the pictures do the talking -
Review from Jenny T.
Toronto, ON
7/24/2010 4 photos
If you ever enjoyed watching Iron Chef (before it became an Americanized version) and drooled, this is THE place to go. The menu as described by others as a range of 80-100 is actually more like 80, 100, and 120 which results in 5, 7 and 9 courses respectively. If you are there for flavors and opt to get the 9 course meal, I do not recommend finishing the all food on your plates despite how amazing they taste and how much willpower it will take you to put the spoon or chopsticks down. The sashimi and sushi portions are very large. I believe there were about 8 different fishes for the sashimi and approximately that much for the sushi. A must try!
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Review from Lisa H.
Stouffville, ON
4/24/2009
Sushi Kaji was my first experience at Omakasi.
We went for a my sister's birthday so it was a treat. because we knew we were in for a great, but expensive meal. There was only two items to choose from, the small Omakase selection or the larger Omakase (ie. more courses)
We all ordered the larger meal, and we spent well over 2 hours at the restaurant, not eating constantly, but getting our courses at a fairly good pace. By the end we all felt stuffed.
The location is in Etobicoke and its a very small restaurant, probably no more than 8 tables, if that. Our waiter was Japanese and only spoke some English. We found out that the fish is delivered from all over the world amongst other neat facts about our meal. -
Review from Eddie C.
Toronto, ON
6/4/2011
food is simple yet amazing, therefore someone who doesnt really like japanese food all that much can truly enjoy it, the service is amazing, master kaji is very friendly and insisted on taking our picture, very humble man too, worth the price you pay, i will definitely go back, filling too and less than 2 hrs meal for omikase
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Review from Sheila B.
8/22/2009
We splurged on this restaurant on our first night in Toronto. The food was good and creative and everyone was friendly. I'm discovering that I'm not a huge fan of raw fish. A little bit in a roll, but a big piece in sashami, only in very small amounts.
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Review from Jonathan W.
Calgary, AB
12/6/2008
This is one of the most expensive and consistently top-ranked sushi experiences in the GTA. I must admit that the food is just splendid. You have a choice of three menus with a different price level for each. These are inventive, creative and flow well. Not the best decor and atmosphere for the price point didn't meet expectations. Best reserved for those who are serious about not compromising their sushi tastes with no regard for the final bill.
Listed in: Sushi...eat it and you'll live…, Sushi in Toronto
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Review from Hratch P.
Toronto, ON
7/21/2009
Simply put...wow!
This is the best Japanese food I've ever had, at least the best Omakase.
The $120 per person, 9 course Omakase is the perfect balance of sushi and cooked dishes; starts with 3-4 small courses spanning fish, meat, and vegetables, followed by an absolutely amazing sashimi platter, a few more traditional Japanese dishes and then a creative sushi platter, capped off by Japanese desert options.
Subtle, but interesting use of flavors and textures throughout make it a showcase of traditional japanese cuisine, but the occasional creative sparks add a slight edge. Where else do they blowtorch your scallop sushi and top it with green peppercorns? And trust me, smoky caramelized scallop crust and green pepper are a match made in heaven.
Yes, comments on location and atmosphere are fair, but you go here for the food. End of story. -
Review from Meryl T.
Toronto, ON
6/4/2011
There was no 'wow' during the entire dinner. We ordered all 3 omikase dinner - $80,100 & 120 among 3 of us. Almost feel like the entire evening I was eating food from an assembly line. Perhaps we have been spoilt by Chefs Morimoto and Tojo because their dishes and creation had the 'wow' and at Kaji
the simplicity of the dishes were not very sophiscated - taste in general
were okay but not memorable
The sushi course of fish selection is of good grade but the sashimi course was a little dissappointing. The kitchen dishes were a bit peasant like....come on shrimp paste cake n tofu? The sea bream collar and head dish was slightly overcooked as this is supposed to be the best part of a fish n when cooked right the collar meat is tender n smooth. We all find the sauce in most of the kitchen dishes are rather sweet. Maybe there are more white patrons as they like things sweet. I would still recommend people to go try as the bite size presentation is cute n chef Kaji is funny n entertaining. We got extra macaroons n roasted rice tea to end out meal. -
Review from P J.
Toronto, ON
5/19/2011
It's just amazing!!
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Review from emily p.
Toronto, ON
12/12/2009
This is the best sushi in Toronto. Hands down. I was fortunate enough to eat there once, and i probably won't be going again because i simply cannot afford it, however, it is an experience i'll never forget. If you are a sushi fanatic, i recommend that you attempt to splurge, because truthfully, this was the best meal i'd ever had.
Unfortunately, for the price, the experience of dining is a little dissapointing, however, i've eaten at restaurants like sassafraz, and the food was not only not nearly as good, but there was so little of it. At least at Kaji you get your money's worth in food.
If you place a priority on ambiance and decor, this is not the restaurant for you. But i'm still hoping i get the chance to go again. -
Review from Peter G.
10/30/2009
Wow. I had the most incredible meal here. Many fantastic courses, but also not "too much" - like a gigantic menu at French Laundry or the old Susur. This was perfect - innovative, fresh, light, beautifully presented. I can see why this is the #1 ranked restaurant in Toronto (Zagat). Well earned.
