A Journey to Kiro

As you step inside Kiro Sushi, you’re enveloped by a delightful medley of aromas wafting from the kitchen. The warm wooden interior feels like a cozy escape from the iconic hustle and bustle of Bloor Street in Toronto, transporting you to a hidden nook that invites you to unwind. Though you may not be greeted immediately, the lively atmosphere speaks volumes as you see tables filled with satisfied customers savoring their meals. It’s clear you’ve stumbled upon a gem.

Kiro presents itself as a laid-back sushi bar with moderate prices and a menu that caters to a variety of tastes. At first glance, the front and back pages may seem like your standard sushi fare, but don’t be fooled—some of their sashimi platters and premium donburis are sure to surprise. The beauty of their menu lies in its inclusivity: whether you’re craving ramen or prefer to steer clear of raw fish, Kiro has something for everyone. For the adventurous diner, a hidden treasure awaits at the back of the menu: two impressive sushi boats meant for sharing, brimming with an assortment of nigiri, rolls, and sashimi. With such an expansive selection, choosing what to order becomes a delightful challenge.

As our server approached, my partner and I eagerly decided on the Salmon Lover’s entrée and the Tokyo Boat for two—though we quickly realized our eyes might be larger than our stomachs. Our meal began with a small plate of salad drizzled with yuzu dressing and a comforting bowl of miso soup. The soup was fragrant and flavorful, though a touch on the salty side. The salad, fresh and zesty, offered the perfect palate cleanser ahead of our rich feast.

First up was the Salmon Lover’s entrée, featuring six pieces each of salmon sashimi, salmon nigiri, and a spicy-crunch salmon roll. Each piece of salmon was beautifully fatty, reminiscent of king salmon, with just the right amount of buttery richness. The quality was evident, especially as we savored the perfect temperature and the subtle saltiness of the soy sauce. The nigiri rice was seasoned impeccably—neither too sweet nor too bland. To my surprise, the spicy-crunch roll struck an ideal balance; filled with generous chunks of salmon and perfectly spiced tempura crumbs, it outshone many other sushi spots that skimp on fish. The accompanying spicy mayo, a harmonious blend of kewpie mayo, honey, and sriracha, was just the right consistency—not too spicy or sweet, coating each bite beautifully. While the plating was simple, it was undeniably elegant.

As we finished our first course, the grand Tokyo Boat made its entrance. No photo can truly capture the beauty of this dish. Presented in a charming wooden boat adorned with leafy garnishes, it was a visual feast that drew gasps from our table. The arrangement was meticulous, with sashimi and rolls artfully organized from left to right. At the bow of the boat, we found two beautifully prepared ebi shrimp, deveined and served over ice—cooler than usual and bursting with freshness. Each bite of the sashimi was clean-tasting, devoid of the overpowering “fishiness” often found in Western sushi.

Perhaps the most surprising element of the boat was the rainbow roll tucked at the back. Initially appearing to be just another tempura roll, it soon revealed itself as anything but ordinary. As I took a generous bite, the crispy tempura provided a satisfying crunch, perfectly complemented by fresh cucumber and avocado that kept the dish light and vibrant. A drizzle of uni sauce over the salmon and a delicate layer of rice added a touch of sweetness and saltiness, creating a harmonious conclusion to our meal.

So, what do you call this experience? While it may not be life-changing, it’s undoubtedly palate-satisfying. Dining at Kiro Sushi invites thoughts of comfort and community, reminding us that the best meals are often shared with loved ones. With its inviting atmosphere and exquisite flavors, Kiro isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a delightful culinary escape worth returning to again and again.

Kiro Sushi, 4 Collier St, Toronto, ON M4W 2G9