Kinka Izakaya Bloor

There's almost always a lineup to get into this popular Japanese tapas parlour, where servers holler at each other and the music pounds. Designed for group eating, this lively restaurant attracts a swell of fans for its flavourful plates of real food and the energetic servers who deliver it to the table. Carbonara udon, fried calamari, baked BC oysters, takowasabi and deep-fried brie all get special mention on a menu that changes regularly. Staff is energetic and friendly. Sake - in its pure, martini and mojito forms — is abundant, as is Japanese beer and a tasty Japanese soda, and both are a perfect lubricant for such excellent food. Wear presentable socks when you visit; shoe removal at the door is an imperative.