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Skippa was a beloved Japanese restaurant in Toronto, known for its exceptional sushi and omakase tasting menus. Patrons frequently praised the freshness of the fish, inventive vegetable dishes, and attentive service. The intimate setting allowed diners to watch chefs prepare dishes, enhancing the overall experience. Many reviews highlighted the quality of the omakase menu, noting the variety and creativity of the courses. However, some diners mentioned that the restaurant could get crowded, and the seating could be uncomfortable during longer meals. Overall, the community sentiment was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to return before the restaurant's closure.

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.

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.

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

 sourced primarily from Japan ensured a purity of flavor that elevated every dish.

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

 available for al fresco dining during warmer months.

 ensuring a personalized and relaxed dining experience.

 complemented the menu, although wine options were limited.

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.

 No, Skippa permanently closed in December 2021.

 Skippa was located at 379 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M6G 1H8, Canada.

 Skippa specialized in seasonal Japanese cuisine, offering sushi, sashimi, and inventive vegetable dishes.

 Yes, Skippa offered an omakase tasting menu that featured a variety of courses highlighting fresh fish and seasonal ingredients.

 Yes, Skippa had a patio that provided additional seating during warmer months.

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Canada

Skippa: A Japanese Culinary Gem in Toronto's Old Town District.

 is a cozy and chic Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of Toronto's Old Town district on Harbord Street. Renowned for its exquisite sushi, small plates, and thoughtfully curated tasting menus, this eatery offers a refined dining experience that delights food lovers and adventurous palates alike. The intimate setting, complete with a lively bar and inviting patio seating, creates the perfect atmosphere for savoring authentic Japanese flavors crafted with precision and passion.

Skippa's menu is a celebration of Japanese culinary artistry, featuring the acclaimed Trust Skippa tasting menu that invites diners to indulge in a sequence of 13 carefully crafted bites. Among the standout dishes, the sushi selections shine with the freshest fish sourced primarily from Japan, offering an umami-rich experience that lingers on the palate. Another highlight is the wagyu beef paired with edamame, a dish praised for its depth of flavor and tender texture, creating a memorable taste sensation. Guests are encouraged to savor each bite slowly, appreciating the delicate aromas and textures that elevate every course.

The restaurant also offers a refined selection of beverages, including a curated list of sake and beers that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes. Although the wine selection is limited, the staff's recommendation to pair meals with sake from Fukuoka, known for its fruity and light profile, enhances the overall dining experience. The attentive service ensures that tea and water glasses are always replenished, and sitting at the sushi bar provides a fascinating view of the chefs' meticulous preparation and dedication to detail.

Skippa's kitchen is a hub of precision and passion, where chefs honor traditional Japanese techniques while infusing their own creativity. A fun fact shared by the chef is the use of Japanese charcoal to grill mushrooms, imparting an incredible depth of flavor that has become a signature element of the menu. This attention to detail and respect for ingredients is evident in every dish, making each visit a unique and immersive culinary journey.

Located at 379 Harbord Street in Toronto's vibrant Old Town neighborhood, Skippa is perfectly situated for visitors looking to explore the city's rich cultural tapestry. The area offers a blend of historic charm and modern energy, with nearby attractions including eclectic shops, art galleries, and parks. Whether you're a local or a traveler, the restaurant's central location makes it an ideal stop for an authentic Japanese dining experience amid Toronto's dynamic urban scene.

 Skippa is celebrated for its exquisite sushi, high-quality Japanese ingredients, and the immersive Trust Skippa tasting menu that showcases a variety of delicate flavors and textures.

 The restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese cuisine with modern presentation, attentive service, and a cozy ambiance that makes every meal a memorable experience.

 Skippa is located near Toronto's Old Town, where visitors can enjoy historic sites, vibrant street art, boutique shopping, and cultural venues that reflect the city's diverse heritage.

For those seeking an authentic taste of Japan in Toronto, Skippa offers an unforgettable dining adventure filled with fresh, high-quality ingredients, masterful preparation, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're indulging in the Trust Skippa tasting menu or savoring the delicate wagyu and sushi dishes, this restaurant promises a culinary journey worth sharing. Be sure to reserve your seat at the bar to witness the artistry firsthand and enjoy the attentive hospitality that makes every visit special.

Cozy, chic Japanese eatery offering sushi, small plates & tasting menus, plus patio seating.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURJczY2MFdBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWWqVyvU0K4gR1lFpr-Zun_w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURJczY2MFdBEAE

Our experience at Skippa was very good overall. We decided to got for the Trust Skippa menu at $120 pp. Our favourite part of the menu was definitely the sushis. The rest was also tasty but not as great. I would say that overall out of the 13 bites we loved 5, we liked 5. In our opinion 120$ is a bit too expensive also because if you add extra bites to taste their special it becomes a 200-240$/pp meal with alcohol. The goods: high quality of products mainly coming from Japan, and not just the fish, take time to taste the rest and smell your bite before eating it :) The staff is attentive; your tea and water is always full. Sit at the bar; it’s great to see them work and pay so much attention to details. All of them. Some things they could improve: they remove the plates too fast. Sometimes as we were eating our bite, the waitress was behind us ready to pick up the plates. The wine selection is too limited. I know... we should drink sake, but offering only 3 choices of white wines by the glass compared to a good list of beers & sake. And finally, we were very cold in the restaurant (they are aware of this issue): they should put extra heat in wintertime as this is affecting our experience. If we go back, we will go eat sushi.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM2cHZUYURREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWWqVyvU0K4gR1lFpr-Zun_w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM2cHZUYURREAE

Incredible hospitality and good food. We came here for dinner last week and I'm still thinking about how good the whole experience was.

We went for the omakase option and our server (Tomo?) was attentive and explained each and every dish to us. Everything was so fresh and well presented. I'm not a huge fan of veggies but the delicate and respectful way they treated each dish won me over.

My favorite dish was the wagyu with edamane. The umami was seeping through every bite of it. Truly a dish to remember for the ages.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURZMTVmNDhnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWWqVyvU0K4gR1lFpr-Zun_w/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURZMTVmNDhnRRAB

6 stars! Some of the freshest fish and best presentation I've ever seen. On par with high end places we've been in NY and SF at a fraction of the price. Was really fun to sit at the bar and watch the prep. The mushrooms over Japanese charcoal is incredible and has so much depth of flavor. Chef is super kind and shared cool stories about how the restaurant came about. Definitely a gem in Toronto and deserving of many accolades!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNhOW9XNVl3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWWqVyvU0K4gR1lFpr-Zun_w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNhOW9XNVl3EAE

Overall a great dining experience. Our server was very friendly and explained everything as we went through each course. Some had an unexpected mix of flavours and we might not like every course personally but we definitely enjoyed most of them. And I had to get two bottles of umeshi to go as it was so delicate and smooth

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURHd09IbFhnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJWWqVyvU0K4gR1lFpr-Zun_w/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURHd09IbFhnEAE

We chose the "Trust Skippa" - tasting menu. I am unsure if this number changes, but this will run you around $150 per person

Pair your entire meal with a bottle of sake (we chose a fruity and light flavour from Fukuoka).

The selection sent to us was absolutely delicious from first course to last. They timed everything perfectly.

I would go again.

Skippa: Chic Japanese Restaurant in Toronto's Old Town

Skippa was a renowned Japanese restaurant in Toronto, celebrated for its fresh sushi and seasonal dishes. It was co-owned by siblings Ian and Kati Robinson, with Ian serving as the head chef. The restaurant was known for its intimate setting, allowing diners to watch chefs prepare dishes in an open kitchen. Skippa permanently closed in December 2021, after a five-year run, as Chef Ian Robinson decided to move to Fukuoka, Japan, to focus on organic farm-to-table cuisine.

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.

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.

Skippa opened on Harbord Street, marking the beginning of its acclaimed presence in Toronto’s culinary scene.

Skippa permanently closed its doors in December after a valued five-year run, as Chef Ian Robinson pursued a new chapter in Fukuoka, Japan.

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.

 - 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.

Outdoor Seating

Dine In

Takeout

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Skippa is a cozy, chic Japanese eatery in Old Toronto, offering sushi, small plates, and tasting menus, along with patio seating. It invites guests to embark on a culinary journey that blends traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary flair, all in a serene ambiance.

Skippa

Skippa is a cozy, chic Japanese eatery located in the heart of Old Toronto, offering a unique dining experience with sushi, small plates, and tasting menus. The serene ambiance and minimalist decor create an oasis of calm, making it ideal for both romantic evenings and casual gatherings.

Menu Overview at Skippa - Toronto's Hidden Gem for Sushi and More!

Nestled in the heart of Old Toronto, Skippa is a cozy and chic Japanese eatery that offers a delightful culinary experience through its meticulously curated menu. From fresh sushi to inventive small plates, the dining experience here is a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.

The starters set the tone for a memorable meal. Highlights include:

Seaweed Salad - A refreshing mix of seaweed with a hint of sesame oil.

Mains at Skippa showcase the finest quality ingredients, emphasizing traditional Japanese techniques while adding a contemporary twist. Some standout options include:

Omakase - A chef’s choice experience that highlights the freshest seafood.

Wrap up your meal with a selection of elegant desserts that provide the perfect sweet finish. Options include:

Mochi Ice Cream - Soft, chewy, and filled with delicious ice cream.

To accompany your meal, Skippa provides a well-curated selection of drinks that include refreshing sake and meticulously selected wines. Pair your dishes with:

Japanese Beer - Light and crisp, perfect for pairing with sushi.

Skippa also features seasonal specials that provide unique and limited-time flavors that enhance the overall experience. Don't miss out on:

Unique Sushi Rolls - Creatively crafted with seasonal ingredients.

Discover Skippa in Old Toronto - a vibrant haven of delicious cuisine and craft cocktails. Savor unique flavors and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience!

Skippa: Trendy Toronto Restaurant & Bar Experience

Toronto Municipality

Discover Skippa on Harbord Street: Toronto's Premier Japanese Dining Spot

Nestled in the heart of Toronto's vibrant Old Toronto district, Skippa at 379 Harbord Street offers an exceptional Japanese dining experience that beautifully balances sophistication with coziness. Known for its chic ambiance and meticulous attention to detail, Skippa invites food lovers and cultural explorers alike to indulge in a culinary journey centered around authentic sushi and delicate small plates.

Exceptional Omotenashi Hospitality and Culinary Excellence

Skippa elevates the traditional Japanese dining concept with an 

 tasting menu that showcases the freshest, high-quality ingredients imported directly from Japan. Diners can expect a carefully curated sequence of about 13 exquisite bites, including standout sushi creations and seasonal small plates, each crafted to highlight natural flavors and textures. The skilled chefs at Skippa take pride in their artful presentation and thoughtful pacing, ensuring every bite is a memorable delight.

Guests at Skippa often choose to sit at the sushi bar, where they can watch the masterful preparation of each dish unfold with precision and care. The attentive staff maintains a seamless service flow, keeping your tea and water replenished and guiding you through each course with knowledgeable explanations. While the menu is a highlight, patrons also appreciate the restaurant's selection of sake and beer, perfectly paired to complement the tasting experience.

 include expertly crafted sushi, wagyu with edamame, and mushrooms grilled over Japanese charcoal for a depth of flavor.

 is intimate and stylish, with a cozy patio area perfect for warmer months and a lively bar scene.

 include dine-in with reservable tables, takeout for convenience, and a full dinner and dessert menu.

While some find the pricing on the tasting menu on the higher end, Skippa delivers an experience that rivals high-end sushi bars in New York and San Francisco but at more accessible rates. The focus on Japanese ingredients, respectful culinary techniques, and the inviting atmosphere make it a top destination for sushi aficionados and adventurous eaters in Toronto.

Located in Toronto's bustling Harbord Street neighborhood, Skippa is easily accessible and perfect for an intimate date night, a special celebration, or a refined solo dining experience. The restaurant is known for its attentive hospitality and offers an inviting patio for outdoor dining in warmer seasons. Reservations are recommended to secure your seat at this sought-after culinary gem.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Staff go the extra mile to explain dishes and ensure a seamless dining experience.

Creating a close connection to the culinary process and a unique ambiance.

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.

Ontario

Experience Skippa, a top Toronto sushi spot on Harbord St. Known for fresh seasonal dishes, intimate ambiance, and exceptional omakase menus. Book now!

Skippa Toronto - Luxe Sushi & Japanese Restaurant in Old Toronto

Discover Skippa in Toronto's Old Toronto neighborhoodOffering innovative sushi, seasonal plates, and intimate dining. Perfect for sushi lovers seeking quality and flavor.

Skippa Toronto - Japanese Cuisine, Sushi & More in Old Toronto

Learn about Skippa, a celebrated Toronto restaurant renowned for fresh sushi and seasonal Japanese cuisine. Now closed to pursue new ventures in Japan.

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