For those of us who didn’t have a chance to escape to Muskoka this summer, there’s good news:  Wabora, Bracebridge’s acclaimed steakhouse and Japanese eatery, is opening its second location in Toronto’s new Thompson Hotel. 

Following the opening of Scott Conant’s highly anticipated Scarpetta and the upscale burger and fries alternative Counter, Wabora completes the boutique hotel’s trilogy of restaurants.

The opening is set for Wednesday night, with a private party that includes more than 500 invite-only guests.

Min Soo Kim, the owner of Wabora, was approached by Thompson Hotel co-owner Peter Freed (a friend) with the idea of opening a second location in Toronto.

“I thought it was great," Kim told PostCity.com. "I’m honoured.”

He said Toronto’s Wabora only varies slightly from the Muskoka location. The Thompson Hotel option is unique in offering Robata, an ancient Japanese style of grilling.  Otherwise, the new resto offers the same fusion food, from beef tenderloin to 60 kinds of maki.

Kim said he aims to make the place the best restaurant in the nation.

“The one in Muskoka happens to be one of the top ten restaurants in Canada… I hope this one will be the best,” he said.

Wabora seats approximately 200 people.

(550 Wellington Street West, 416-777-9501)