Opened in 2009, Koyoi is one of only a few pre-Guu izakayas in Toronto (yes, apparently izakayas existed in the city before Guu). Tucked away from busy Yonge Street on Irwin Avenue, it’s a neighbourhood spot that tends to draw in a younger university crowd for its very affordable price point plus the kitchen that’s open until around 1 a.m. and bar that closes around half an hour after. What better to pair with your Sapporo than a selection from the entire menu page dedicated to deep-fried dishes? In a surprising Japanese twist on poutine, the french fries with special curry sauce and cheese offer crispy — almost crunchy — golden french fries covered in a sweet, barely spicy Japanese curry that’s reminiscent of gravy. It’s then topped with more cheese, because everything is better topped with cheese, and nori flakes. Enjoy Koyoi’s inventive eats in this cool and casual space with a refined yet exciting atmosphere.
