Conveniently located near Billy Bishop Airport by the Harbourfront, the restaurant offers a pleasant view of streetcars passing by and the waterfront, bustling with pedestrian traffic. It can be easily accessed via the Harbourfront Streetcar. It sets itself apart from others by offering an outdoor patio seating area which is a rare feature for sushi restaurants. Overall, not a top choice for sushi for the price and quality as it felt pretty average but has flexible hours of operation running till 2am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (May 2023)!
When it comes to the menu, they have an extensive selection of options ranging from the standard categories of Maki Rolls, Sushi, Combos, Bentos and Noodle Soup. It appears that they are Korean-owned as there were Bulgogi, Galbi Ribs and Bibimbap options offered as well. They offer a large list of special Maki rolls, that come in portion sizes of 9 pieces. We ordered the Vegetable Tempura, Ume Sushi B combo, Maki Combo featuring California Rolls, Salmon Rolls, and Dynamite Rolls, as well as the Diablo roll and Salmon Avocado maki roll. Each dish was well displayed. You can ask for substitutions which they mentioned will be adjusted for any cost differences if the maki roll is higher in cost. The food tasted pretty average, nothing overly spectacular. Vegetable tempura had a good amount of pieces, standard vegetable choices, except for a tempura-battered carrot. They used what felt like cutlet batter for the asparagus and onion ring. Also, during the visit, the salad and soup for our combos were initially forgotten and we had to check in with the staff.
The restaurant provides ample seating with 10 tables inside and an additional 8 tables outside on the patio. Along the inside restaurant, you'll also find four Japanese-inspired booths. The female bathrooms, located near the front walkway, offer two stalls but one of them was out of service during our visit. During our dining experience, we were not offered an inside dining option, but that was okay as we were content with the patio and enjoying the sun, fresh air and waterfront views. Each outdoor table is equipped with a ringer to call for a staff member's assistance. However, it is worth mentioning that the manager appeared somewhat confused when the bell was rung at our table, as he did not know which table had called for assistance. As a result, we had to go inside and request our bill and a Styrofoam takeout box.
While some areas of the restaurant could benefit from renovation like the outside patio (visible storage areas) and bathrooms, the staff members are attentive, quick to provide service, and efficient at clearing tables. They take cash or credit via a card machine. If you choose to dine on the patio, the menus they provide you with are the same takeout menus that are located at the front gate which does not have any drink options. Furthermore, if you prefer, they are available for delivery through food ordering apps like UberEats, and they even offer a cash discount for pick-up orders placed directly at the store.
Note: If coming from the Harbourfront Streetcar, you can get off at the stop by Queens Quay West at Dan Leckie Way. Closest parking would be at the Green P parking (west of the restaurant) but would be a nightmare to find spots as it is...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at Guirei Japanese Restaurant, and I must say it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Every aspect of my visit, from the warm and inviting ambiance to the delectable cuisine, surpassed my expectations. I am delighted to leave this glowing review for Guirei Japanese Restaurant.
First and foremost, the service was impeccable. The staff members were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was memorable and enjoyable. Their attention to detail and genuine care for their guests truly stood out.
Now, let's talk about the food. The culinary journey at Guirei Japanese Restaurant is nothing short of extraordinary. The menu offers an extensive selection of traditional and innovative Japanese dishes, each crafted with precision and bursting with flavor. Every bite was a delightful combination of fresh ingredients, expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
I highly recommend starting with their sushi rolls. The sushi chefs are true artists, as evidenced by the visually stunning and incredibly delicious creations they served. From classic favorites to unique signature rolls, each piece was a masterpiece. The quality of the fish was outstanding, and the flavor combinations were simply divine.
Moving on to the hot dishes, I was thoroughly impressed by the range of options available. The tempura was light and crispy, perfectly complementing the tender and succulent seafood and vegetables. The teriyaki dishes were rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes. The ramen was a comforting bowl of goodness, with a flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles.
To enhance my dining experience, the restaurant also had an impressive selection of sake and other Japanese beverages. The knowledgeable staff was more than happy to recommend pairings and provide insights into the different flavors and varieties.
In conclusion, Guirei Japanese Restaurant is a culinary gem that delivers an exceptional dining experience. The impeccable service, outstanding cuisine, and inviting atmosphere combine to create an unforgettable meal. Whether you are a sushi aficionado or simply a lover of Japanese cuisine, this restaurant will exceed your expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend Guirei Japanese Restaurant and cannot wait to return for another memorable dining experience.
Thank you to the entire team at Guirei Japanese Restaurant for an extraordinary evening. Your commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect, and I am grateful for the remarkable culinary journey you provided.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5...
Read moreThis place make amazing rolls Guirei Japanese Restaurant has captivated my taste buds and left me utterly impressed with its exceptional culinary offerings and breathtaking location near the lake. This establishment truly deserves every single one of its five stars!
From the moment I stepped foot into Guirei, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The minimalist yet elegant decor created a tranquil setting, perfect for indulging in a memorable dining experience. The restaurant's proximity to the lake only heightened the ambiance, providing a picturesque backdrop that enhanced my visit.
Now, let's talk about the main attraction—the amazing bibimbap. Guirei's bibimbap is a masterpiece in itself. The dish was beautifully presented, showcasing a vibrant medley of colors and textures. The ingredients were impeccably fresh, and the flavors were nothing short of spectacular. The harmony between the perfectly cooked rice, the assortment of vegetables, and the tantalizing marinated meats was simply divine. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that left me craving for more.
Apart from the outstanding bibimbap, Guirei offers a wide range of other Japanese delicacies that are equally praiseworthy. The sushi and sashimi were impeccably prepared, with melt-in-your-mouth freshness that truly showcased the chef's skill and dedication to quality. The tempura was light and crispy, perfectly complementing the delicate flavors of the seafood and vegetables.
The service at Guirei was exceptional. The staff members were attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience. They were happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that made me feel like a...
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