Masa

Masa
15 Charles St. E.

The past several days have been crazy hectic. So much so that the usual Thursday Sushi lunch was missed. I’ve let you down. I’ve only managed to eat sushi once this week! But no matter, it was Laura to the rescue as she noticed a place near where she does pilates and decided that it met the “Toronto-Sushi criteria.” That being it serves sushi and has 4 walls and a roof.

The interior with its soft lighting and candles on the table reminded me of something. Probably something out of a movie as I just couldn’t place it. Unlike most other places, there was enough seating that I was shuffled into an empty wing. I decided that this area must be for “special” people as I was by myself. So, I managed to snap a picture of the interior. Not something I can normally do, as I don’t want to disturb other patrons.

The second thing I noticed was a label in the menu (pictured) about the Red Snapper/Tilapia furore. I take it as a tacit admission that previously they were selling Tilapia as Red Snapper. But thats the past, at least now most places are being more honest about it.

But on to the food! I decided on a couple of rolls by completely different methodology. First up was the Sea Dragon (Tempura Shrimp, Cucumber, Mayo, topped with Unagi and Avocado) at $8.95. That was easy. It had shrimp and unagi. But as usual with so many choices I was incredibly indecisive about the second one. So I simply shut my eyes, ran my finger down the menu, stopped and opened my eyes to see an LA Roll (Crab, Salmon, Cucumber, Mayo) for $5.95. First off, both rolls were very generous with the ingredients. I was especially impressed with the LA Roll. For a mere $6 you were getting real fish along with the usual crab stick fare. It could have used either a little less mayo or a switch to spicy mayo, but it was delicious either way. Next up was the Sea Dragon, which I know I’ve had under other names. Caterpillar maybe? Either way, the Unagi was exceptional. Again, the mayo did seem to detract a bit and smother other flavours, but the unagi made up for it. Not as greasy as I’ve had it before. One day I’m going to learn how they get the “top” ingredients to shape the contour of the roll so well. Each of these rolls were masterfully made without going crazy on the rice or falling apart because too little rice was used.
The rolls were both 6 piece cuts, and were a little too large. It’s a nice thing to complain that you’re getting a bit too much for your money! The Sea Dragon was nearly difficult to eat being so generously made. I almost felt like a chipmunk eating it!

The only detrimental thing I can think of was the Edamame appetizer. I have now had overcooked soya beans. Now, I love lima beans cooked in the traditional English way. Boiled until they’re mush. Unfortunately, Edamame is not supposed to me mushy. These were. This is the first time I’ve ever not finished an entire bowl and tried to lick the salt off. But still, if that was the only disappointment, these guys have a good thing going.

Masa gets a thumbs up. Reasonable prices and a slightly upscale feel. Good location too, only steps from Yonge and Bloor. Check it out the next time you’re down town doing your shopping!