Discover Skippa: A Cherished Chapter in Toronto's Culinary Scene

Nestled in the heart of Toronto's vibrant Old Toronto neighborhood, Skippa once stood as a beacon of refined Japanese cuisine. Located at 379 Harbord Street, this intimate eatery captivated food lovers with its seasonal menu that celebrated the freshest fish and innovative vegetable dishes inspired by Japanese culinary traditions. Although Skippa permanently closed its doors in December 2021, its legacy continues to inspire sushi aficionados and gastronomes who cherish memorable dining experiences.

An Omakase Experience Like No Other

Skippa specialized in an elegant omakase tasting menu that showcased a curated progression of Japanese dishes, each highlighting seasonal ingredients and masterful preparation. Diners often praised the freshness and quality of the fish, with sushi and sashimi courses standing out as absolute favorites. The menu also featured creatively prepared vegetables and small plates that won over even the most skeptical palates. The attentive and knowledgeable staff enhanced the experience by explaining each dish with passion, making the meal both educational and delicious.

What Made Skippa Unique

Intimate Bar Seating allowed guests to watch skilled chefs meticulously craft each bite, adding an engaging dimension to the dining experience.

Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients sourced primarily from Japan ensured a purity of flavor that elevated every dish.

Seasonal Japanese Flavors were thoughtfully reflected in the menu’s rotating selection, showcasing inventive vegetable preparations alongside exquisite seafood.

Patio seating available for al fresco dining during warmer months.
Reservations accepted ensuring a personalized and relaxed dining experience.
Beer and sake selection complemented the menu, although wine options were limited.

Community Sentiment and Legacy

Skippa earned a devoted following for its exceptional hospitality and culinary craftsmanship. Visitors consistently highlighted the freshness of the fish, beautiful plating, and the chefs' dedication to quality and detail. Many found the dining experience fun and educational, especially when seated at the sushi bar to watch the artistry unfold. While some noted that the seating could feel tight during longer meals and that the restaurant could be a bit chilly in winter, the overall impression was overwhelmingly positive. Skippa’s influence remains a treasured part of Toronto’s food scene, inspiring future Japanese dining ventures.

Frequently Asked Questions about Skippa

Is Skippa still open? No, Skippa permanently closed in December 2021.
What was the address of Skippa? Skippa was located at 379 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M6G 1H8, Canada.
What type of cuisine did Skippa serve? Skippa specialized in seasonal Japanese cuisine, offering sushi, sashimi, and inventive vegetable dishes.
Did Skippa offer an omakase menu? Yes, Skippa offered an omakase tasting menu that featured a variety of courses highlighting fresh fish and seasonal ingredients.
Was there outdoor seating at Skippa? Yes, Skippa had a patio that provided additional seating during warmer months.

Skippa Japanese Restaurant Toronto History Overview

Nestled at 379 Harbord Street in Toronto's vibrant Old Toronto neighborhood, Skippa was a beloved Japanese dining destination that left a lasting impression on food enthusiasts and sushi aficionados alike. Established in 2017 by the talented siblings Ian and Kati Robinson, this intimate eatery quickly became known for its exceptional fresh sushi and thoughtfully crafted seasonal dishes inspired by authentic Japanese cuisine.

A Five-Year Culinary Journey

From its opening in 2017, Skippa offered guests an intimate dining experience with an innovative open kitchen design that invited diners to witness the artistry of Chef Ian Robinson and his team as they prepared each dish with precision and care. Known for its cozy and chic atmosphere, the restaurant specialized in a menu that celebrated freshness and seasonality, showcasing exquisite ingredients often sourced from Japan.

The restaurant’s signature offerings included a variety of sushi creations and small plates, often enjoyed alongside a curated selection of sake and Japanese-inspired beverages. Diners also appreciated the thoughtful touches and storytelling that accompanied each course, creating a memorable and immersive culinary journey.

2017: Skippa opened on Harbord Street, marking the beginning of its acclaimed presence in Toronto’s culinary scene.
2021: Skippa permanently closed its doors in December after a valued five-year run, as Chef Ian Robinson pursued a new chapter in Fukuoka, Japan.

Legacy and Influence

Though Skippa closed in 2021, its influence continues to resonate in Toronto’s food culture. The restaurant was celebrated not only for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and skillful presentation but also for its warm hospitality and attention to detail. Guests often reminisce about the unique experience of sitting at the bar, observing the chefs' meticulous techniques in real time.

Chef Ian Robinson’s move to Japan to focus on organic farm-to-table cuisine highlights the restaurant’s core philosophy of respecting ingredients and embracing seasonality—principles that defined Skippa’s culinary story. For foodies and trend-conscious travelers seeking authentic Japanese flavors in Toronto, Skippa remains a cherished chapter in the city’s dining history.

Visit Toronto’s Harbord Street for Culinary Inspiration

While Skippa's doors have closed, the spirit of innovative Japanese cuisine lives on throughout Toronto’s dynamic restaurant scene. Harbord Street remains a vibrant area known for its diverse and exciting culinary offerings that continue to delight locals and visitors alike.

Skippa Highlights - Intimate open kitchen allowing patrons to engage with the chefs.
- Celebrated seasonal menus with fresh, Japanese-sourced ingredients.
- A beloved part of Toronto’s culinary landscape from 2017 to 2021.

Discover Skippa: A refined Japanese dining experience in Toronto's Old Town district.

Nestled at 379 Harbord Street in Toronto, Skippa stands out as a cozy, chic Japanese eatery that specializes in exceptional sushi and curated omakase tasting menus. This intimate venue features an open kitchen concept, allowing diners to watch the chefs' meticulous craftsmanship up close, enhancing the overall experience. Known for its commitment to fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients, Skippa elevates traditional Japanese cuisine with inventive vegetable dishes and meticulously prepared fish that truly capture authentic flavors.

culinary excellence and service

Skippa's hallmark is its outstanding sushi offerings and refined omakase menus that showcase the freshness of fish and the delicate balance of umami flavors. The chefs’ respectful approach to vegetables surprises even hesitant diners, turning each dish into a memorable culinary journey. Guests often praise the attentive and friendly service, with staff ensuring that every detail—from tea refills to dish explanations—is handled with care. Sitting at the bar adds an engaging dimension to the dining experience, providing guests a front-row seat to the artistry and precision behind each bite.

considerations for visitors

While Skippa offers a top-tier dining experience, potential visitors should be aware of a few practical considerations. Due to limited seating capacity, the restaurant can feel crowded during peak hours, which may affect the overall comfort. Seating arrangements, though intimate, might feel less comfortable during longer meals. Additionally, the pricing reflects the high quality and craftsmanship, with tasting menus positioned at a higher price point compared to other Japanese dining options in Toronto. These elements, however, are balanced by the exceptional food quality and personalized service that Skippa delivers.

key highlights

Exceptional sushi and omakase tasting menus: A standout feature that draws food enthusiasts seeking authentic Japanese flavors.
Freshness of fish and inventive vegetable dishes: Highlighting sustainable and locally sourced ingredients that elevate traditional dishes.
Attentive and friendly service: Staff go the extra mile to explain dishes and ensure a seamless dining experience.
Intimate setting with open kitchen: Creating a close connection to the culinary process and a unique ambiance.
Limited seating leading to crowdedness: A potential drawback during busy times, which might affect the dining comfort.
Uncomfortable seating during longer meals: May detract from the enjoyment of extended tasting experiences.
Higher price point compared to some alternatives: Reflecting the quality and craftsmanship but potentially limiting accessibility.