Sushi . Midtown . $ – $$
I am by no means an expert on fish and seafood. My hometown was practically in the middle of a desert, with no real access to fresh or salt water.
It also doesn’t help that I am allergic to shrimp.
Subject matter experts may argue that Toronto’s sushi is lackluster. I think the city’s offer is more than decent, with some places close to rivaling the freshness of well-regarded places like Vancouver.
Located on Yonge Street, a couple of blocks from the Eglinton/Midtown intersection, Echo Sushi hits that sweet spot of quality, quantity, and price that can turn into you to-go sushi spot if you live around the area.
Form follows function
The place itself is no nonsense, no frills: the decor is simple and effective, with service being much of the same. There are no complaints about this, and I appreciate having the opportunity to dine without all the bells and whistles.
The sushi bar was clean, and provided a clear view of the fish available. The speed, expertise and efficiency of the staff behind the bar speaks of the quality of the food before you even try it.
Service was likewise speedy and efficient. We were welcomed when we arrived at the restaurant. Once seated, there was no need for unnecessary pleasantries, but also not room for rude or blunt service:
A short smile, a slight bow; “Are you ready to order?“
I went for their beef bento box. It normally comes with two pieces of tempura shrimp, but since I am allergic to them, they switched them for two more pieces of tempura veggies. My partner had the tuna maki and temaki, with an assorted side of six nigiri pieces.
By keeping decorations and outside distractions to a minimum, your senses can fully focus on your food once it arrives, which allows you to enjoy it on a different level.
Taste. Texture. Smell. Appearance. All of the qualities of a great sushi were present in the fish of our order. The salmon was buttery, smooth, and fresh, a treat to the palate. The tuna was bold, meaty, and clean. The rice, avocado, and cucumber on the maki and temaki shared the same degree of freshness as the fish.
The bento box was equally good, with a tender, juicy, perfectly cooked steak. The quality of the beef was matched by its accompaniments: crunchy tempura vegetables, hearty miso soup, crisp salad, and delicate white rice.
The portions were generous, carefully plated and more than enough to enjoy on your own, or share with others if you decide to sample different dishes.
Not everyday you find a place that balances quality and price as well as Echo Sushi, and for this reason, it is hard not to recommend it for any ocassion.
Despite what my earlier comments about the decor of the place may suggest, to think that this needs to be changed would be a grave mistake.
Au contraire, it is this “simple stage” that allows the main character to showcase all its qualities, and for the guests to enjoy the show with an unbiased palate.
If you are looking for a no-nonsense, decently priced, quality option for sushi in Midtown, Echo Sushi has the potential to become your new go-to spot.
Forks of the Six 