Sushi Yūgen is a true gem in Toronto and a place where genuine hospitality and meticulous attention to detail are of utmost importance.

Our experience began with a genuine welcome from co-owner Kamen Sun who takes the time to speak with each guest, setting the tone for an intimate and personalised dining journey. The restaurant’s aesthetic, inspired by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, beautifully embraces the beauty of imperfection and transience. This philosophy is intertwined throughout both the design and the culinary offerings, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and inspiring.

Head Chef Kyohei Igarashi, with expertise developed from over 15 years of experience in both high-end sushi and kaiseki, a unique blend of skills and techniques, has curated a menu that is nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish is a testament to his expertise and passion for Japanese cuisine. The collaboration with Michelin star Chef Hiroyuki Sato who brings his extensive training from Hakkoku, Tokyo, Japan, further elevates the dining experience, offering authentic and masterful dishes influenced by a blending of both chefs’ personal touch.

Our menu for the evening was a thoughtful orchestration of flavours and textures, starting with a delicate Sweet Corn Soup and progressing through a series of exquisite dishes, including White Fish Truffle featuring black truffle imported from Australia, Japanese Amela Tomato, Truffle Egg Custard and Traditional Steamed Pot. The Hokkaido Sea Urchin Rice, Japanese Tiger Prawn and various cuts of Bluefin Tuna were standout highlights, each prepared with the utmost care and precision by Head Chef Kyohei Igarashi himself, with support from his impressive team members.

The Sushi Yūgen team’s dedication to creating memorable experiences sets them apart from many restaurants in Toronto. While dining at the private chef’s counter, which accommodates up to eight guests, diners are led through the culinary journey as it unfolds by a skilful shujin. The shujin’s impressive memory of each course in fine detail, their intricate stories behind each plate’s conception and their meticulous pairing of each dish with high-end sake and Japanese whiskies paired with dessert, demonstrate the team’s commitment to excellence like few others. The inclusion of rare delicacies, such as Higashizawa raw sea urchin, sourced at auction by Chef himself the morning of, adds a refined and luxurious touch.

A deep passion for Japanese culture and cuisine is unmistakable in every aspect of the dining experience at Sushi Yūgen. Their team’s collective goal of creating great memories through food and beverage is not only met but exceeded. It is no surprise that Sushi Yūgen deserves its mention in the Top 100 Best Restaurants 2024. For anyone seeking an unmatched dining experience in Toronto, Sushi Yūgen located at 150 York St. is a must.

Special Mention: Sushi Yūgen offers two distinctive dining experiences: the intimate 8-seat chef’s counter and the spacious 12-seat main sushi counter, each featuring exclusive menus and genuine hospitality.

Photos by Ada Yakobi and James Miller.