# Culinary Escapes in Toronto: A Food Enthusiast’s Retreat
When it pertains to gastronomy, Toronto is a destination that consistently exceeds expectations. Recently, Mike and I opted to commemorate our anniversary with a brief escape to this lively city, excited to immerse ourselves in its eclectic food scene. With the allure of smooth udon, exquisite sushi, and mouthwatering Italian cuisine, we embarked on a culinary expedition that promised to delight our palates.
## Takja BBQ House
Our initial destination was **Takja BBQ House**, a stylish and contemporary Korean BBQ establishment. The atmosphere was welcoming, featuring an exceptional ventilation system that maintained a fresh environment despite the grilling taking place at every table. Takja focuses on dry-aged meats and fresh seafood, paired with an assortment of banchan (side dishes) and house-fermented sauces.
We chose the **Hansang**, a banquet that highlighted some of their finest selections. The crispy seafood pancake, juicy pork shoulder, and tender kalbi were standout features of the dinner. The banchan paired beautifully with the meats, and we concluded our meal on a delightful note with a strawberry matcha bingsoo. This venue is essential for anyone in search of a genuine Korean BBQ experience.
**Location:** [Takja BBQ House](https://www.takja.ca)
962 College St, Toronto, ON
Tues-Sun 5-10pm
## Giulietta
Next, we explored **Giulietta**, a delightful Italian eatery that serves as the charming younger sibling to the Michelin-starred Osteria Giulia. With a relaxed ambiance, Giulietta presents a menu brimming with homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas.
We savored calamari fritti, tonnarelli cacio e pepe, and a tasty mushroom pizza, concluding with a classic tiramisu. The vibe was vibrant, filled with guests dressed in a range of styles from formal to casual, creating an ideal atmosphere for an enjoyable evening out.
**Location:** [Giulietta](https://giu.ca)
972 College St, Toronto, ON
Mon-Wed 5-10pm, Thur-Sat 5-11pm, Sun 5-9:30pm
## Sushi Yugen
As sushi lovers, we had to visit **Sushi Yugen**, a place that provides a genuine omakase experience. The simple decor and intimate environment created the perfect setting for dining.
We were amazed by the creative kaiseki-inspired dishes and the sushi’s quality. The rice, seasoned with a distinctive blend of akazu red vinegar, was outstanding, and the seasonal fish was fresh and flavorful. Highlights included the kohada and nodoguro, making this among the finest omakase experiences we’ve encountered in North America.
**Location:** [Sushi Yugen](https://sushiyugen.ca)
150 York St, Toronto, ON
Mon-Tues 11:30am-3pm, 5:45pm-10:30pm, Wed-Sat 11:30am-3pm, 5:45pm-11pm
## General Public
**General Public**, established by acclaimed restaurateur Jen Agg, presents an eccentric mix of English pub and American brasserie cuisine. The diverse decor, featuring 80s-style glass blocks and plush seating, creates an unforgettable dining atmosphere.
We relished classic fare like thick-cut fries, Yorkshire puddings, and cheeseburgers. The mood was laid-back, making it an ideal location for a relaxed lunch. Mike particularly enjoyed the double-barrel shotgun martini, while I delighted in the creamy butterscotch pudding.
**Location:** [General Public](https://www.generalpublic.ca)
201 Geary Ave, Toronto, ON
Everyday 11am-11pm
## Gateau Ghost
For dessert, we headed to **Gateau Ghost**, a cafe celebrated for its scrumptious madeleines and whimsical ghost-themed decor. The madeleines, influenced by owner Jayden Park’s Korean background, were fluffy and flavorful.
We also sampled the GG’s Caesar, enhanced with hoisin and gochujang, which provided a unique twist to the traditional drink. The cafe’s aesthetic and delicious treats made it a memorable stop on our culinary adventure.
**Location:** [Gateau Ghost](http://gateaughost.com)
974 College St, Toronto, ON
Tues-Wed 7am-7pm, Thurs 7am-10pm, Fri-Sat 7am-11pm, Sun 7am-9pm
## Raku Toronto
A trip to Toronto wouldn’t be complete without savoring udon at **Raku**, known for its smooth noodles and authentic Japanese flavors. The restaurant’s clean and welcoming atmosphere provided a delightful dining experience.
We sampled the chikara udon with mochi and chicken, and the gyunan with Canadian beef. While the noodles