Is Toshi Really That Good?

Posted by Jeff
Filed in Food
January 16, 2007

I have this Toshi gift certificate that I've been trying to use for the last few months. But that place is crazy.

I drop by whenever I'm in the area and hungry, and have been repelled by the prospect of at least a half-hour wait every time. Sundays, Tuesdays, Fridays, 5:00, 6:00, 8:00... whenever. A month or so ago, I showed up to an hour and a half wait. On Sunday I was driving past around 5:00 so I figured I'd check it out. No luck. They had just opened and there was already a line-up out the door. My female consort and I were both entering hypoglycemia, and neither of us are very patient when we're in that state, so we decided to opt for the lightning-fast (albeit raw-fish-deficient) service of the Congee Noodle House on Broadway.

I have to say... congrats, Toshi, for earning yourselves such a devoted following. I've heard heaps and platters of glowing words about your incredible sushi... and been warned about the line-ups. One of these days I'll have the resolve to sit in line (or I'll get lucky and walk right in) and finally enjoy it for myself.

Reader Reviews and Comments

Submit a Review or Comment

I'd say they're about on par with Sushiyama... better on some things, not as good on others. Get the house roll, if you make it in. There's a sauce in it that alone is worth the wait.

We've had them deny us take-out service as well because they were busy - they'll ask you how many people your order is for and then make a judgement call.

BTW, if you don't have any luck getting in, I can take that pesky gift certificate off your hands... *big smile*

Posted by: Kirsten at January 16, 2007 11:36 AM | Quote Comment

I respectfully decline your offer.

Posted by: Jeff

at January 16, 2007 12:41 PM | Quote Comment

I don't think you can use it. It has red felt marker all over it...

Posted by: Sean Orr at January 16, 2007 1:53 PM | Quote Comment

I thought I'd jazz it up with a splash of colour. Bad idea?

Posted by: Jeff

at January 16, 2007 3:04 PM | Quote Comment

Toshi is good but I haven't been in ages because it's not worth the long lines. Try these options instead:
1. Dan (West Broadway around Feenies)
2. Shiro (Cambie, near 12th I think)
3. Zipang (Main, near 22nd)

All good, not as crazy.

Posted by: Angie at January 16, 2007 7:13 PM | Quote Comment

ha!

i totally don't know when "the good time" is to go there. i've grudgingly borne the wait before. i don't think there's a time i haven't.

Posted by: dorian at January 16, 2007 7:13 PM | Quote Comment

I'm in the same boat (albeit, sans gift certificate), I live in the area and have tried to go a number of times but just can't stand waiting in the long lines. So I always go to Sushiyama instead.

But you could always order take out...

Posted by: Krisztina at January 16, 2007 7:41 PM | Quote Comment

Hey... my roommate works there so I got the inside scoop, plus I eat there a lot. It's really, really good. Not all things are equal in the sushi world behind the scenes, and if you eat enough Japanese food, you begin to recognize it.

Anyways, you're best off showing up right when they open at 5. Well, actually, show up a bit early, and you'll get in. Weekdays are best, if you can get there in time. But yeah... Friday night at 7pm? You'll have to wait for ages.

Posted by: jray at January 16, 2007 9:24 PM | Quote Comment

I live 1 block away so I know the line rhythem.
4:45 you better line up, u only have to wait 15 minutes.
If u get in just after 5, sign up your name and go drink a beer around the corner. Tables will turn over around 5:45 to 6.
After that good luck until 9.
Tables open up after 9
don't go on a Fri, Sat, and early Sunday.
Things to eat.
Nasu dengaku-If u haven't tried it before u die then u will die tastless.

House roll- enough said!

Gomaee- I lived in Japan. This is the ONE!

Oyster Motoyaki- Shuckalisious!

Salmon Sashimi- He currently has in stock Sockeye from Kamchatka Russia! I was born in BC and this Salmon is the best sockeye I ever had!

Spicy Agedashi-Burn baby burn!

Ginger beef- OMG

If Toshi is not busy(very rare!) ask for "omakase". But only if u are at the bar.

Posted by: crosseyed at January 17, 2007 1:29 AM | Quote Comment

Well alright then. It sounds like I'll keep trying.

Posted by: Jeff

at January 17, 2007 12:10 PM | Quote Comment

I did it last night. Showed up at 6:00 and waited for 20 minutes. Goma ae, house roll, Alaska roll, tuna tataki, and salmon sashimi. Killer.

Posted by: Jeff

at January 19, 2007 8:29 AM | Quote Comment

mmmmmmmm...

The only trouble is it's hard to eat anywhere else after. My Japanese friends also recommend Samurai downtown, though.

Posted by: jray at January 20, 2007 12:55 PM | Quote Comment

Zipang is a hop, skip and a jump away if you're in a pinch and is really good sushi for the price. Funky decor and run by some young japanese kids. It's around 21st and Main I think.

No liquor license yet though means no sake for jessi
: (

Posted by: jessi at January 20, 2007 11:17 PM | Quote Comment

well now the words out for people who haven't heard about it previously...it's just going to get worse. I need to try it.

Posted by: Carla at February 1, 2007 7:39 PM | Quote Comment