After Montreal, Chris and I wondered what would be the “must-eat” in Toronto if a tourist asked us and we were baffled. There was nothing to the level of what we experienced in Montreal. We knew really good places but not places that were top of the top… until now that is.

When Guu opened in Toronto, reviews of the place and anticipation of it opening was very high as this chain of restaurant was extremely popular in Vancouver. Finally months after it was opened, Chris and I ended up downtown at 10pm and decided to go try it, hoping the line would be minimal. Luckily, we only lined up for about 20 minutes comparable to 2 hours+ during lunch/dinner hours. The wait was definitely worth it.

As soon as you enter through the doors, all the kitchen, servers and bartenders loudly greet you in Japanese. You’re seated, presented warm towel and with a menu of Japanese dishes; no sushi or rolls but authentic mini-platters like takoyaki, onoyamaki , beef ribs, enamame, and more.  Chris and I ordered eel on rice, w/ mushroom, takoyaki, beef ribs, scallops and grilled saba accompanied by the Ramune (the Guu marble soda drink)

Each dish was small but the flavour was big and simply excellent. The interior decoration and the atmosphere definitely made us feel like we traveled to Japan. We ended up getting Banana Tempura with coconut ice cream for dessert… even though we were full from the meal.

The bill came to about $53 for the two of us and it was worth every dollar. As you leave, all the staff greets you again in Japanese saying Thank you and Goodbye.

398 Church Street, Toronto
(416) 977-0999

Rating – 5/5 – Amazing