Need To Know
Minami launched in Toronto, during the pandemic and it wasn’t until recently (with the ease of pandemic-related restrictions) that diners could finally take in the majestic design and ambience.
Minami is located in the heart of the Entertainment District at 225 King St West near Roy Thomson Hall and across from TIFF Lightbox.
Aburi Restaurants Canada is the group behind Minami in Toronto, with a Minami outpost in Vancouver, Miku (Vancouver and Toronto), Gyoza Bar (Vancouver), Aburi To-Go (Vancouver), Aburi Hana in Yorkville, and TORA (uptown Toronto).
Minami Toronto was awarded the prestigious 2021 Winner/Americas – Regional Restaurant and 2021 Winner/Americas –Multiples at the Restaurant & Bar Design Awards 2021.
Location
“The location on King West in the heart of Entertainment District was a strategically chosen one. Both the menu and interior are meant to showcase the spirit of theatrics as an homage to the important cultural and architectural significance of this area,” says Seigo Nakamura, Founder and CEO, Aburi Restaurants Canada.
Architecture & Design
Collaborating closely with DesignAgency, Aburi Restaurants Canada turned the 4,600-square-foot space into a warm, vibrant destination spot that serves as the perfect backdrop for their contemporary Japanese cuisine and rigorous cocktail program.
To highlight the bar area, almost a hundred delicate gossamer red and orange paintedfabric sheets hang from the ceiling, exuding the appearance of a gently flickering fire.
The main dining area hosts plush leather booths against the wall for more intimate dining, with arched backlit screens made from glazed sheer fabrics.
On the feature wall next to the kitchen and visible from almost every angle throughout the restaurant is mural art by Japanese painter Hideki Kimura that captures an elegant depiction of flora and fauna and beautifully echoes the essence of Minami’s intricate cuisine.
Culinary & Cocktails
The menu at Minami underscores the theatrical theme with memorable dishes and cocktails. Helmed by Executive Chef Michael Acero who has honed his craft across the various banners under Aburi Restaurants Canada, the menu at Minami Toronto embraces techniques and flavours combining Japanese tradition and modern global concepts, and are reflected in dishes that span from land to sea. This can be seen in the dramatic Wagyu on Yogan Stone or the Charred Octopus Wasabi Nicoise.
Dessert is no exception to this culinary cross-over, with innovative Instagram-worthy offerings from Head Pastry Chef Aiko Uchigoshi, like the Matcha Baked Alaska – complete with flaming theatrics. And for fans of Miku and TORA, they can expect the signature Aburi Sushi on this menu as well.
As a nod to the iconic nightlife vibe of the area, Minami Toronto’s rigorous cocktail program continues the theme of combining Japanese and global inspirations in all their cocktails. The Shinjuku (finished with a simple garnish of cotton candy) reflects the dichotomous character of this distinct area of Tokyo – classic elegance with a touch of modern whimsy.
Dine
Reservations can be made on OpenTable or by phone: 416-519-9182. Indoor and patio dining and takeout are available.
All applicable COVID-19 safety procedures are in effect.