Sushi-hunting is a risky business in this city...it seems you can't throw a rock in the downtown core without hitting some new Asian-inspired hotspot. Thus, when I moved into my apartment at 77 Huntley Street, I certainly wasn't expecting much from "that sushi place downstairs" (as we called it). Convenience was about all I hoped for. But over the year that I lived there, this little sushi joint has managed to outclass every other place I've tried.

Portions are fresh, affordable and large. In spite of my warnings, my sushi-fanatic friends always over-order on their first visit. Previous experiences have taught them to expect a certain size of sushi pieces, but Nijo always surprises them. Should you be in the mood for something other than sushi--which I will never understand--the menu is varied enough to meet all tastes, including bento boxes, tempura, salads and soups. For drinks, the green tea is a particular favourite of mine (and the wine is pretty good too!)

Although Nijo's staff is minimal, they are friendly and knowledgeable. Visit just once and they'll recognize you when you return (which you inevitably will). By your third outing there's a good chance they'll recall your favourite drink and regular meal.

I now make trips downtown specifically to go back to Nijo. And though I can no longer afford the time to go quite as regularly, I'm still treated as though I never left. Nijo was definitely the best part of life at 77 Huntley...but maybe I'll get into that some other time.

Nijo, 345 Bloor Street East (bottom of apartment building at 77 Huntley). 416-929-6870