Shunoko

Shunoko was a beloved fixture in the Corso Italia neighbourhood on St. Clair West, founded by chef Jun Kim after he closed his popular Roncesvalles spot, Sushi Nomi. Known for its minimalist aesthetic featuring blond wood and white brick, the restaurant became a go-to for locals seeking high-quality, creative sushi without the stuffiness of downtown high-end spots. Chef Kim, who honed his craft in Korea, built a reputation for sourcing exceptional seasonal fish from around the globe—including Japan, Portugal, and New Zealand—and treating them with both traditional respect and playful innovation. The atmosphere was intimate and focused, with the sushi bar serving as the heart of the room, where diners could watch the kitchen team meticulously prepare everything from hand-grated wasabi to house-made soy sauce.

For a first-timer, the omakase was the definitive way to experience the kitchen's range, offering a curated journey through the freshest market catches of the day. If you preferred ordering a la carte, the "Can't Go Wrong" roll—featuring shrimp tempura, avocado, and blow-torched spicy scallop—was a local favourite, alongside inventive creations like the coconut spicy tuna roll. The menu also featured excellent hot dishes, such as black cod marinated in saikyo miso. While the restaurant was known for its great value, it was also a place to enjoy thoughtful, non-traditional touches like desserts crafted by the owner's wife. Please note that Shunoko permanently closed its doors in October 2022, marking the end of a significant chapter for the St. Clair West dining scene.