Sushi Masaki Saito Toronto Experience Overview

Nestled in the heart of Toronto at 88 Avenue Rd, Sushi Masaki Saito offers an extraordinary culinary journey that captures the true essence of Japanese sushi tradition. This 2-Michelin-starred gem is not just a restaurant; it’s a masterclass in sushi craftsmanship and hospitality. With only seven intimate seats, diners enjoy a highly personalized omakase experience that engages all the senses, from the delicate flavors of impeccably fresh fish flown directly from Japan to the warm and charismatic presence of Chef Masaki Saito himself.

A Unique and Intimate Dining Setting

The restaurant’s design is a homage to traditional Edo-style sushi bars, crafted from 200-year-old Hinoki wood imported from Japan. Every detail — from the handcrafted wooden cabinets to the marble footrest at the sushi bar — creates an elegant yet inviting setting. With only seven seats split over two evenings, each guest receives direct service from Chef Saito, who tailors the meal down to thoughtful touches like adjusting dishes for left-handed diners.

Exceptional Omakase and Culinary Craftsmanship

The omakase menu, priced at 500 CAD per person, is a feast of meticulously sourced ingredients. Fish are flown in directly from Japan twice weekly to guarantee absolute freshness. Chef Saito uses award-winning rice from Nikka Province, perfectly seasoned with a blend of five red vinegars, and enhances every element, including homemade fermented ginger and freshly ground wasabi root. Signature dishes like toro with truffles and steamed abalone with liver sauce highlight the balance and depth that set this sushi apart from any other experience in Canada.

Why Sushi Masaki Saito Stands Out

Authentic Japanese tradition: The sushi is served in its purest form, without excessive soy or wasabi additions, preserving the classic flavors.
Unparalleled freshness: Twice-weekly direct flights from Japan ensure the finest quality seafood available in Toronto.
Personalized experience: Chef Masaki Saito’s approachable demeanor and the intimate seating make every meal feel unique and memorable.

Community sentiment

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with guests consistently praising the exceptional quality of the sushi, the attentive and knowledgeable staff, and the intimate, immersive ambiance. Visitors often describe their meal as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, highlighting the perfect balance between tradition and innovation offered here.

Frequently asked questions

What is the price of the omakase menu? The omakase menu is priced at $500 CAD per person.
How many seats are there in the restaurant? The restaurant has only seven seats, providing an intimate dining experience.
Is it necessary to make a reservation? Yes, reservations are required and should be made well in advance due to high demand.

Sushi Masaki Saito's historic journey in Toronto's culinary scene.

Nestled in the heart of Toronto at 88 Avenue Road, Sushi Masaki Saito has transformed the city's dining landscape since its grand opening in 2019. This exquisite restaurant, helmed by the renowned Chef Masaki Saito, brought an authentic and exclusive two-Michelin-starred omakase experience to Canada, setting a new standard for Japanese cuisine in North America.

The birth of a culinary gem in 2019

In 2019, Sushi Masaki Saito opened its doors to the public, introducing Toronto foodies and international visitors to a traditional Japanese sushi experience unlike any other. With just 11 intimate seats, the restaurant promises a personal touch from Chef Masaki Saito himself, who serves guests directly, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece. The meticulous attention to detail, from sourcing award-winning rice exclusively from Japan’s Nikka province to flying in the freshest fish twice weekly, reflects a deep commitment to culinary excellence.

Achieving Michelin recognition in 2022

Just three years after its inception, Sushi Masaki Saito earned a prestigious two Michelin stars in the inaugural Toronto Michelin Guide of 2022. This remarkable accolade not only positioned the restaurant as a beacon of Japanese cuisine in Canada but also highlighted Toronto’s emergence as a global culinary destination. The Michelin stars celebrate the restaurant’s impeccable quality, from its traditional preparation methods to its innovative omakase menu that delivers a sensory journey with every bite.

What makes Sushi Masaki Saito a standout

Sushi Masaki Saito’s journey is punctuated by its dedication to tradition and exclusivity. The restaurant’s modest seating ensures guests receive personalized attention and a direct connection with Chef Saito, whose warm personality elevates the dining experience. Each dish showcases unmatched ingredient quality, from delicately fermented bamboo ginger to hand-chopped wasabi paste, embodying respectful craftsmanship and culinary heritage.

Exclusivity: Limited to 11 seats, served over two intimate evening sessions.
Authentic ingredients: Fish flown from Japan twice weekly, exclusive rice from Nikka province.
Cultural craftsmanship: Dining space carved from 200-year-old Hinoki wood imported from Japan, evoking Edo era elegance.

Sushi Masaki Saito’s historical timeline, though brief, marks significant milestones that underscore the restaurant's rapid rise to prominence in the competitive world of fine dining. Its 2019 launch introduced a unique fusion of cultural authenticity and intimate hospitality, while the 2022 Michelin star recognition solidified its status as a must-visit culinary destination in Toronto and beyond.

Why this history matters to visitors

Understanding Sushi Masaki Saito’s history enriches the dining experience, revealing the dedication behind each meticulously crafted dish. Food enthusiasts, digital nomads, and cultural travelers alike can appreciate the intersection of tradition, exclusivity, and innovation that this restaurant embodies. It’s not just a meal; it’s a journey through expertly preserved culinary artistry that has made a lasting impact on Toronto’s vibrant food scene.

Sushi Masaki Saito Toronto Experience Overview

Nestled at 88 Avenue Rd in Toronto, Sushi Masaki Saito stands out as a beacon of authentic Japanese culinary artistry. This esteemed restaurant, recognized as the only 2-Michelin-starred sushi establishment in Canada, offers an extraordinary omakase experience that captivates all the senses. Known for its exceptional quality of sushi and the freshness of ingredients flown directly from Japan twice weekly, it invites food enthusiasts into an intimate, upscale setting where every detail, from the award-winning rice to the 200-year-old Hinoki wood decor, reflects deep reverence for tradition.

Why sushi lovers rave about this gem

The heart of Sushi Masaki Saito’s appeal lies in its impeccable service and the masterful skill of Chef Masaki Saito himself. With only 11 seats available, dining here is an exclusive and highly curated experience. Guests are personally served by the chef, who brings warmth, approachability, and a theatrical touch to the preparation of each dish. The freshness of the fish, the perfectly seasoned and textured rice, and the house-fermented ginger together create a sushi experience that honors classic Japanese traditions without compromise.

Balancing luxury with exclusivity

While the culinary artistry and ambiance are unparalleled, prospective diners should be aware of a few considerations. The limited seating means securing a reservation can be challenging, often requiring advance planning. Additionally, the price point is notably high; the omakase menu costs approximately CA$680 per person, excluding taxes and gratuity, with tea and sake pairing options adding to the total. Some guests have noted surprise at the pricing of certain items, such as a single tea bag. These factors contribute to the exclusivity and luxury of the experience but may not suit every budget or occasion.

Key highlights and considerations

Exceptional quality of sushi: Fresh fish flown in twice weekly from Japan ensures vibrant flavors and unmatched freshness.
Impeccable service: Chef Masaki Saito’s personal touch creates a warm, engaging, and memorable dining atmosphere.
Intimate dining experience: Seating is limited to 11 guests per evening, offering exclusivity and personalized service.
High price point: The dining experience is a significant investment, reflecting luxury and craftsmanship.
Reservation difficulty: Due to limited seating and high demand, booking ahead is essential.