Square Fish Toronto

Square Fish: Toronto, Ontario

Square Fish is located in Toronto’s Queen West neighbourhood right at Queen Street West and Spadina.  The space is small but doesn’t feel that way with clean white walls adorned with colourful fish graphics and high ceilings. Counter seating by the window seats at most 2-3, but for the most part it’s a take-out joint.

Square Fish Toronto: Interior
Square Fish Toronto: Interior

In a city where sushi joints flood the entire grid Square Fish looks to differentiate themselves with fun take on the Japanese classic. Sushi pieces are served in square shapes with classic choices like salmon and tuna or contemporary options like grilled cheese and beet.

For the most part I enjoyed the flavors and offerings of everything I tried. What did make this place stand out from other sushi places, besides the square shape, was that the salmon square was layered with salmon within the rice and then topped with another piece of salmon. The blow torched options also had a nice smoky flavour to them and it was also nice to see plenty of offerings for vegetarians as well.  Presentation is also slightly more upscale with each piece being garnished with a dollop of various sauces, micro greens, sesame seeds, or fish roe.The only criticism that I have of the squares is that they’re a little too large and rice heavy. A smaller bite sized portion with less rice would make the squares perfect meal.

Signature Squares ($11 CDN + tax), Salmon/California/Shrimp ($12 CDN + tax), Tuna ($13 CDN + tax).

 

Square Fish Toronto: Signature Squares

The item that stands out most on the menu though is the Donut Sushi which they affectionately refer to as the Doshi. Four types are available including salmon ($8), shrimp ($8), tuna ($9), and vegetarian ($7).

The Doshi consists of two donut shaped rice layers with edamame, spicy mayo, lettuce, corn, salmon/shrimp/tuna/veggie,  and seaweed sandwiched in between. The bottom rice layer is deep fried and topped with cheese and the top layer is garnished with avocado, salmon/shrimp/tuna/veggies, and black sesame seeds. It’s a very messy, but very delicious dish. Prepare to have napkins on hand though as the Doshi falls apart easily.

Square Fish Toronto: Salmon + Shrimp Doshi
Square Fish Toronto: Salmon + Shrimp Doshi

In addition to square shaped sushi and Donut Sushi Doshi Square Fish also offers the ever popular sushi burritos with choices of salmon, shrimp, tuna, vegetarian, or cooked options like chicken and beef. Sadly I didn’t get to try these during my visit but based on what I did try I suspect they’d be pretty tasty as well.

Overall Square Fish is a fun spot with a bright and cheerful atmosphere. Service is friendly but be prepared to take your meal to go though unless you’re lucky enough to snag one of the 3 counter seats available. The food is prepared nicely and in a modern way and the unique choices like the Doshi make this a spot worth visiting multiple times.

Disclaimer: This post was not sponsored, however the meal/items were complimentary. All opinions expressed are my own. All menu offerings and prices are accurate as of time of posting. Please refer to restaurant/shop for most up to date information.

*All images are copyrighted Allons.Y Styling & Photography. Please do not use or re-post without written consent and provide credit where applicable