Basking in the concept of the hybrid (a favorite theme within multicultural Toronto), Blowfish made its mark on King West as a mix between a trendy lounge and a sushi bar. Transformed from an old bank building, the interior of Blowfish is made up of beautiful, contemporary yet warm decor: a sleek and chic seating area with a twinkling glass chandelier above, the room is infused with a toasty glow.
The servers at Blowfish are knowledgeable and helpful, willing to supply quality experiences for their guests. As far as food goes, this restaurant/sake bar along King West dishes out fantastic Japanese-inspired yet inventive menu options: Lobster Dumplings (served, for your convenience, directly onto a spoon), the Hot Oil Hamachi, and the Black Truffle Tuna Maki Roll. Yet, coming most often recommended is the Ebi Roll, which sits a little pricey on the menu, but is one of those rare items that you just have to try once in your life. In fact, many a sushi lover claims that Blowfish on King West is one of the few places in Toronto that makes sushi comparable to the West Coast, and with BC’s seafood so fresh out of the ocean, that’s an impressive comparison.
And to wash all the exquisite sushi down? What else but a choice of one of their 15 different flavours of sake, or, if the Japanese drink is a little much for you straight up, the King West lounge also has an intriguing list of ‘Saketinis’ (try: Pomegranate Saketini with sake, Bacardi razz, prosecco, fresh pomegranate and pineapple juices). Also loved among regulars is the Wasabi Seaweed Caesar, a spicy and exhilarating change from your usual Toronto cocktail.
It is also worth noting that when you sitting at the trendy chic bar, you are offered a hot stone plate upon which you have the option to cook your own Kobe beef and sample the various sauces served with it. A solid choice for sushi in Toronto, Blowfish on King West and the new Bay Street location are must-visit spots. Blowfish Restaurant and Sake Bar, 668 King Street West, Toronto, 416-860-0606; Blowfish, 333 Bay Street, Toronto, 416-860-0606.