“Steakhouses are back!” says Jeff Kang. And boy, is he stoked for this Toronto trend. “I’ve been excited to see so many meat-centric spots opening that pay homage to the classic steakhouse while adding something new,” he says. “There’s something comforting and nostalgic about a dimly lit restaurant, booth seating and perfectly grilled meats. For a really special night, that’s where I want to be.”
His love of meats runs deep: he co-owns Oroshi Sushi, purveyor of fine fishes, and now he’s part of the steakhouse boom alongside fellow owner and executive Edward Bang with Takja BBQ House. There, Kang and Bang sling elevated Korean BBQ, with in-house dry-aged meats, fresh seafood, and traditional Korean fermentation practices, paired with a carefully curated selection of wines, signature cocktails and traditional Korean spirits. “Servers look after the grill, barbecuing for guests at each table, so diners can relax, enjoy the ambiance and focus on the unique flavours of Takja,” Bang says.
The pair love the fact that Korean BBQ is all about sharing. “It’s a beautiful, communal activity that brings friends and family together to talk and indulge and enjoy the moment — something that evokes nostalgia for me and many on the team,” Kang says. “To be able to bring that feeling to our guests has been the most special feeling.”
So, where do Kang and Bang go to enjoy the moment when they’re off the clock? Here, the meat masters share their favourite spots to eat and drink in Toronto when they want to go somewhere special.
