Ematei
[?]
416-340-0472
This izakaya-style restaurant (Japan’s answer to the pub) has an authenticity that draws Japanese expats. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with dotingly attentive staff. The name refers to the hundreds of ema, or small paintings on wooden plaques from Japanese shrines and temples, that adorn the walls. The kitchen prepares traditional izakaya fare, as well as excellent sushi (especially the tekka rolls—sweet, light and delicate). Yakitori of chicken skin—either salted or in sweet barbecue sauce—are scrumptiously crispy. Char-grilled salted chicken cartilage may alienate some westerners with its rubbery crunch, but it proves addictive after a few bottles of Asahi Black (stout) or Kirin Special Premium Reserve. Blanched chrysanthemum stems (shungiku ohitashi), served cool in a sweet dashi, are refreshing. Grilled black cod with a smoky, sweet glaze is succulent, tender and delicious. For dessert, an order of warabimochi—jellied potato starch dusted with toasted soybean flour and served with brown-sugar syrup—provides a texture adventure. Mains $8–$29.
Profile by Client (Description)
Category Features
Vegetarian: Yes
Price Range: Dinner for $60 - $90
Editor's Star Rating: 1.5
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Kosher, Diner, Steak, Mediterranean, Singaporean,