Neither as noisy nor as dimly lit as other restaurants of its ilk, this much-loved Cabbagetown izakaya is Toronto's version of its Vancouver originator, rises above the rest with its emphasis on freshness, quality and presentation. Kingyo's menu boasts a range of unique dishes, from goma ramen salad to short ribs. The pressed mackerel, tsukemono pickles, stone bowl sea urchin don and sea urchin shooters are consistent favourites. Guests get an eyeful here, watching marvels like beef tongue being grilled on a hot stone. Good news travels fast, so there are generally lots of enthusiastic diners under the restaurant's high ceilings and in the company of its blinking Pachinko machines.more...See more text
This Cabbagetown spot reflects a traditionally minded izakaya inspired by classic Japanese cuisine. Featuring a variety of fresh fish, meat, and vegetables, each dish is built of a few simple items that accumulate into exquisite flavours. Diced beef tenderloin served with grated daikon, shisho leaf, and Japanese steak sauce is a superb dish that balances light and heavy on the palette. With its dark wood and bamboo, Kingyo replicates the comfort and luxury of eating in Japan’s urban centres.