Nakamori
Nakamori is a hidden sushi joint in a nondescript Scarborough strip plaza. It's worth seeking out, though, since it serves up unique and creative takes on Japanese favourites.
Chef Nobuyuki Nakamori is originally from Tokyo. You can tell he pours his heart into each finely crafted morsel here.
While calling the cuisine here fusion would be a misnomer, Nakamori does put unique twists on almost everything they serve.
The Butter Teriyaki Scallop ($16) maki features a rich, seared scallop, sweet tomato and cheese glazed tempura. It’s almost a perfect marriage of flavours.
The Aburi Saba ($14) is seared mackerel with watermelon radish, cucumber, and avocado. A dash of ginger nicely bookends each bite.
The Spicy Lobster California ($16) is the humble California roll taken to the next level with a dash of crispy lobster marinated with lime chili, crab, cucumber and avocado.
Today’s Sashimi ($18 for 7 pieces) is a super-fresh sashimi plate that on this day came with salmon, hamachi, scallop and tuna.
From the grill I'd recommend the Jerk Chicken Karaage ($9) featuring ridiculously juicy chicken marinated in seasoned soy jerk spice and drizzled with a light layer of mango aioli.
The Asian Style Duck Hot Dog ($7) is duck sausage with an oversized steamed bao. It's not my favourite dish here but I'll give them credit for originality.
A better option might b the Tempura Fish and Chips ($14). Here, cod is fried in tempura batter and paired with yam fries and mango aioli.
And unlike most sushi joints that default to Asahi or Sapporo, the beers selection here is noteworthy, featuring local brews from Godspeed Brewery ($7).
Hector Vasquez