Sushi Moto is not your mom’s sushi place. “The concept we designed was about modernization of the sushi genre,” says David Kim, the mixologist at the sake and wine bar. The place has an extensive wine selection, including several vintages not available at the LCBO. A speciality drink is the saketini — a three-ounce sake-based martini (4901 Yonge St., 416-224-0741).
Celebrating 25 years in business, Trapper’s Restaurant is about as Canadian as its menu. “We are a Canadian company, with a little fusion inside,” says owner Vishal Ramsuchit, who offers mainly Canadian fare such as Muskoka trout and P.E.I. mussels. He says a lot of the ingredients used are local and come from Ontario (3479 Yonge St., 416-482-6211).
When DeBoer’s first opened its doors, Anne de Boer was following in the footsteps of his Dutch father, who sold home furnishings town to town by ship. Today, DeBoer’s has been anchored in Canada for 60 years. “People know the store; we’ve been here for years and years,” says Peter Van Der Herberg, manager for 35 years (5051 Yonge St., 416-226-3730).
While Behnaz Safari has lived in the Willowdale community for years, she has always worked elsewhere. A hairdresser, she decided enough was enough. The result is Tulips Hair Salon and Spa — her very own shop. “I wanted to work for myself,” says Safari, who offers a wash, cut, style and massage at $30 for women and $20 for men (175 Willowdale Ave., 416-225-2555).
While there are no doggies in the window, Dog Care Wonderland, the latest canine shop to hit Yonge Street, offers everything else. Dog lovers can find plenty of toys, treats and leashes for Spot or Buddy. Manager Alex Wang also says that there is a grooming service (5496 Yonge St., 416-546-0687).