In its first two years of operation, Sushi Yūgen had already cracked the top 50 of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants, joining elite company like the much-lauded Sushi Masaki Saito and Aburi Hana.
Where Chefs Eat
Where Chefs Eat is a weekly series that asks Toronto chefs and restaurant owners to name their favourite places to dine in the city: where they go for everything from weekend brunch to late-night cravings, fancy dinners to dessert.
This week: Kyohei Igarashi, head chef of Sushi Yūgen
Known for: Offering an ambitious omakase program, with both traditional sushi and kaiseki-inspired menus under one roof.
Crafting beautiful sushi is an ancient and exacting art, and head chef Kyohei Igarashi has been practising it for 25 years. He also knows that true greatness requires embracing change; he says his restaurant is the only Japanese spot in Canada offering two distinct premium omakase experiences under one roof: a traditional sushi omakase and a kaiseki-inspired omakase. The results include shiromi with truffle (presented under an ice dome), seasonal tempura with house-made matcha salt, traditional grilled unagi gohan, and abalone paired with its liver sauce and finished with Hokkaido uni.
Hungry yet? Sate your appetite at Igarashi’s favourite eateries across Toronto.
Best date-night spot
dreyfus
“This cosy French restaurant has a dynamic, ever-changing menu of shareable plates inspired by classic French techniques and seasonal local ingredients. The wine-forward list and intimate atmosphere make it ideal for a relaxed yet thoughtful dinner.”
Best bakery
Duo Pâtisserie & Café, various locations
duo
“A French-inspired patisserie with Japanese influence, they specialize in viennoiseries, elegant pastries, fine chocolates and seasonal cakes. Their craft lies in meticulous technique, refined flavours and high-quality ingredients, creating a careful balance of sweetness, texture and precision.”
Best dessert
Petit Potato, various locations
petit
“Get the Japanese-style soufflé pancakes. They’re light, airy and delicate — absolutely worth the wait. It feels more like a dessert experience than just something sweet.”
Repeat reservation
Ramen Raijin, 24 Wellesley St.
ramen
“A local favourite for rich, balanced broths and deeply satisfying ramen that delivers both complexity and comfort — a place where familiarity never dulls the excitement.”
The last best thing you ate
Lai Wah Heen, 108 Chestnut St.
lai wah
“I went specifically for the made-to-order dumplings and dim sum, which showcase exceptional technique and elegance.”
Current obsession
Famiglia Baldassarre, 122 Geary Ave.
famiglia
“Head to this revered pasta atelier and lunch counter, where fresh, handcrafted pastas are made daily. The focused minimalist menu changes regularly and highlights flawless execution of simple Italian classics in an unpretentious, chef-driven setting.”
Lunch spot
Centre Street Deli, various locations
centre street
“I love this classic Jewish deli, where old-fashioned pastrami and traditional sandwiches honour time-tested techniques and nostalgic flavours. I always order the old-fashioned medium fat.”
Best late-night spot
ayla
“This Hong Kong–inspired late-night kitchen and cocktail bar offers creative shareable small plates rooted in Cantonese and cha chaan teng traditions, presented with contemporary technique in a moody, intimate setting.”
Swatow Restaurant, 309 Spadina Ave.
swatow
“Try this late-night Cantonese spot. It has comforting, well-executed dishes that will satisfy cravings at any hour.”
Best takeout
North of Brooklyn Pizzeria, various locations
north of brooklyn
“They offer consistently balanced, satisfying pizza that travels well, a reliable pick when you want flavour without fuss.”
Favourite coffee shop
Le Génie Bakery and Espresso, 382 Yonge St.
le genie
“Le Génie is driven by a deeply passionate owner who approaches coffee with the same precision and respect as fine baking. Its philosophy focuses on purity and balance, allowing the natural character of the beans to shine without distraction. The result is clean, focused coffee. Its cold brew is especially smooth and crisp, reflecting true care and intention.”
Best cocktail bar
Alobar Downtown, 150 York St.
alobar
“They’re right next door!”
