{Event} A menu to impress at Kinka Izakaya (North York location)

Website: http://www.kinkaizakaya.com/
Address: 4775 Yonge Street, Unit #114, Toronto, ON
When I attended: Nov. 30th, 2015, Media dinner

Due to the ending of a franchise agreement between the KINKA FAMILY INC. and Kitanoya Marketing Corp., “Guu Toronto” was renamed to “Kinka Izakaya”. “Kinka” means “golden flower” and symbolizes happiness in the Japanese language.

I was invited to the rename launch party, where my guest and I enjoyed 9 popular menu items; many which I have had in the past. The North York location is more spacious and brighter than the original Church St. location, but customers can still expect the same buzzin’ and loud ambiance. I did have trouble finding this location, as the restaurant was facing a side street, rather than Yonge St., as the address stated.

Aside from the name change, customers can expect the same energetic service and large menu selection of Japanese tapas, sake and cocktails.

Check out the delicious dishes at the tasting:

Takowasabi– A marinated octopus with wasabi stem. The wasabi was overpowering and strong (the way I liked it), so its best to take small bites.

Gyu carpaccio– Seared beef sashimi with ponzu, wasabi mayo and garlic chips. The garlic was a great addition.

Kaisou and tofu salad-Marinated seaweed and tofu on greens.

Karaage-Deep fried chicken with garlic mayo. This classic Japanese bar dish was tasty, as the chicken was marinated in soy sauce.

Kakimayo-Baked oyster with spinach, mushrooms, garlic mayo and topped with cheese. I have ordered this on many occasions, and I love the richness of the ingredients together.

Tontoro-Grilled pork cheek skewer with yuzu pepper.

Gindara-Grilled miso marinated black cod with yuzu miso sauce. Another stand out of the evening with a tender and silky center.

Salmon oshizushi-Blowtorched Atlantic salmon pressed sushi. The portions were generous for the two of us!

Hojicha brulee-Roasted green tea creme brulee. I am not sure if the green tea was supposed to be really subtle, but I did not taste much of it. I still enjoyed the creamy dessert; a great ending to a fabulous tasting!