We Tried Canada’s First Nobu in Toronto and Here’s What You Can Expect

The first Nobu in Canada has finally landed in Toronto, and it’s bigger and better than we could have ever expected. In case you don’t know, Nobu is a popular Japanese restaurant found in many cities around the world like Rome, London, Dubai and New York City. For years, Torontonians have been waiting for a Nobu to open its doors here, and while the hotel needs a little more time, the restaurant has finally made its grand appearance. We got the chance to check out Nobu in Toronto and here’s everything you need to know.

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Does Toronto have a Nobu restaurant?

Nobu is opening a restaurant, hotel, and residence building in Toronto, Canada. Back in 2017, sales for the residential building commenced, and 7 years later, the restaurant finally opened. Nobu in Toronto is located at 25 Mercer Street, in the Entertainment District.

How big is Nobu in Toronto?

Nobu Toronto has two levels, a sit-down restaurant upstairs with a secluded terrace and a bar downstairs. The restaurant is 10,000 square feet on both levels and has 278 seats.

The bar on the ground level has 57 seats, where guests can enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. With large draped chandeliers and a brightly lit bar, this is a great spot for delicious bites and thirst-quenching cocktails.

The second level has a restaurant, bar and outdoor terrace. Guests first walk through a 20-seat sake bar and on the right is a serene terrace that hides away from the city’s bustling noise — it feels like an urban Japanese garden. At the back of the hallway is a massive room that seats 140 guests. The room is stunning, massive and filled with exquisite art. The dining room has an open-concept kitchen where you watch the chefs at work. There is also an 11-seat sushi bar where guests can appreciate the culinary team’s expertise up close and personal.

Is Nobu Toronto similar to the other locations?

We have been to many Nobu restaurants around the world, and Toronto’s location is no exception to the outstanding experience. Not only is the location in Toronto bigger than any of the others we’ve dined at, but it’s just as delicious.

You can expect to indulge in Nobu’s famous Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, Rock Shrimp Tempura, Otoro Nigiri, and so much more. We tried the food at Nobu and can’t wait to go back for more. Also, the cocktails are not something to miss out on. You should definitely get your hands on a Lychee Martini and an Oni Negroni; they’re Nobu’s signature cocktails. Additionally, Executive Chef Alex Tzatzos also has Toronto-specific dishes that honour the city’s multicultural food scene. So you can expect to eat exclusive dishes only found in the city.

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Who owns Nobu?

Nobu Hospitality, which started in 1994, consists of Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper. Yes, Robert De Niro, Academy Award winner and Hollywood actor, is a co-owner of Nobu Hospitality. In fact, he was at Nobu’s Official Ground Breaking ceremony in Canada, so here’s hoping we see him dining in Toronto soon.

Nobu is a celebrity hot spot in many cities around the world, and with TIFF taking place in September, this lavish Japanese restaurant might be the place to run into some celebs! So make sure to get those reservations booked in advance.

When will Nobu Hotel Toronto open?

While the residential building and restaurant are open and functioning, the hotel is expected to debut in the spring of 2025. But if it’s anything like what we’ve already seen, we’re in for a treat and can’t expect anything less than fabulous and luxurious.

Nobu has significantly elevated Toronto’s food scene and added us to the list of countries lucky enough to be part of the group. There are only 56 Nobu restaurants and 36 hotels worldwide. Reservations at Nobu Toronto are now open, so make sure to check it out.