I try to keep up with new restaurant openings, but some places slip by—or I simply don’t get to them.
Imanishi Japanese Kitchen was one such spot. Tucked away in Little Portugal at 1330 Dundas Street West, it’s been open since 2015, when the neighborhood was quieter and less of a dining destination. Now, with the area bustling with new restaurants and shops, Imanishi still stands out.
The restaurant serves contemporary Japanese izakaya fare—think small plates akin to tapas or bar snacks, but elevated with bold, dynamic flavours. The vibe is casual, cozy, and unpretentious, with a warm welcome and an almost “hole in the wall” feel. It is intimate, yet has a lively atmosphere. With about 48 seats, including the bar, an open kitchen wafts enticing aromas throughout the space. The front room is bar-stool seating (not ideal for those who prefer chair backs, like me), while the back offers more comfortable chairs. Décor is simple: faux-brick floors, wooden tables and chairs, touches of greenery, dim lighting, and soft background music. You don’t come here for the ambiance—you come for the food, which is thoughtful, reasonably priced, and far better than what they modestly call “home-style cooking.”
The menu features seasonal ingredients and a range of memorable dishes that are perfectly sized for two people to share. The seasonal sashimi was fresh and tender.. The corn kakiage (a sweet-salty corn tempura) was a real standout, as was the tai carpaccio—delicate slices of red snapper with bright yuzu, tomato, and cilantro. A prawn and cilantro salad was refreshing and well-balanced, while the chicken karaage arrived moist inside, crisp outside, and topped with a creamy, tangy sauce. I noticed many orders of chicken wings flying out of the kitchen, so those are on my list for next time.
Each dish is designed to pair beautifully with their drinks: craft cocktails, hard-to-find sake by the glass or bottle, and beer. My plum Negroni struck a perfect balance of sweet and bitter. Service was attentive—our plates were changed often, dishes arrived one at a time so we could savour each course, and nothing felt rushed. Every plate was colourful, unique, and delicious.
There’s only one dessert on offer, but it’s a must: the Tokyo Toast. Imagine a thick, crunchy slab of French toast topped with Asian-inspired ice cream—it’s indulgent and unforgettable.
When owner Shori Imanishi opened the restaurant, his vision was to create a blend of Japanese food, drink, music, and Tokyo street culture. Ten years later, it’s clear he’s achieved that goal in a big way.
Recommended. Happy dining.
Shanea
11/08/2025
