Raku: A Udon Haven on Toronto's Queen Street West

$$ ‧ Japanese restaurant

Address: 456 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A8

Queen Street West Entrance

Raku finds its home on 456 Queen St W, a vibrant Toronto neighbourhood known for its creativity, arts, and culinary gems. Nestled between Simcoe and Bathurst streets, Queen Street West embodies the heart of Toronto's creative spirit, making it the perfect location for Raku to open its fist spot in Canada.

Chef Norihiro Ishizuka, with over sixty years of culinary expertise, introduces Toronto to Raku. His udon noodle concept pays homage to his home cooking roots. Ishizuka's menu revolves around chewy silky noodles in his signature dashi soup, accompanied by classic Japanese small bites. Raku offers a contemporary dining space with minimalist aesthetics, providing a serene atmosphere for culinary exploration.

The Ambiance

Interior of Raku

Raku's exterior stands out with an all-white facade adorned with neutral noren curtains, a Japanese sign of allowing passers by know that they are open for business. Inside, light-coloured wood decorates the ceiling and walls, creating a calm and natural environment. Despite its size, the space feels open and uncluttered. Each table is equipped with a wooden QR code that matches the walls, for menu access, enhancing the modern dining experience. On the table is also a small porcelain or clay like container carrying a variety of spices.

Food:

Ja Ja Cold Udon & Green Tea

Exploring Raku's menu, I opted for the Ja Ja Cold Udon—a refreshing dish featuring spicy miso pork, cucumber, tomato, and a poached egg. Ideal for warm days or as a revitalizing treat after a day of Queen Street West exploration. The iced Green Tea complemented the meal perfectly, striking a balance between bitterness and sweetness.

Oyakodon

The Oyakodon, translating to "parent-and-child donburi," showcased Raku's mastery. This Japanese rice bowl dish blends chicken, egg, and onion simmered in a delightful soup, served generously over a bowl of rice. Renowned as the best Oyakodon in Toronto, it's a testament to Raku's commitment to authentic and delicious cuisine.

Conclusion:

Raku on Queen Street West invites patrons to embark on a culinary journey, celebrating the art of udon noodles and Japanese flavours. From its welcoming exterior to the serene ambiance and delightful menu, Raku provides an enriching dining experience. Ishizuka's culinary mastery ensures that each dish tells a story, creating memories through the artistry of Japanese cuisine.