DOWNTOWN. This is about as trendy as it gets. Blowfish combines the sexiness of a stylish club with the cuisine of a high-end restaurant, with great success. Sushi is the main component of a creative menu that incorporates Japanese dishes with a bit of international appeal. Fresh and beautifully presented food is the result, and sake is the perfect accompaniment, although saketinis and other cocktails are also popular. There are two seatings, one between 5:30pm and 7pm, the second between 8:30pm and 9:30pm. DJs up the club quotient on weekends after 9pm.

DOWNTOWN. This Japanese bistro is loved by Japanese tourists for its authenticity. The sushi is the freshest around, and appetizers are perfect. In the bar or one of the tatami rooms, a hot pot can be ordered and shared among friends.

DOWNTOWN. The consensus of opinion about Hiro is that the only way to truly appreciate it is to sit at the sushi bar and order the omakase. Watch as each tidbit is prepared, chat with the chef, and relax ­ then marvel that anything could taste so incredibly good. To be sure the omakase (chef's choice) is usually an adventure, so if you're new to sushi or prefer to stick with the tried and true, you may prefer to order off the a la carte menu.

DOWNTOWN. One of the finest Japanese restaurants in Toronto, this large, attractive restaurant allows diners the choice of eating at the sushi bar, in tatami rooms, or joined by other patrons at a cooking grill. Seafood reigns supreme and varies from scallops or shrimp to Atlantic salmon, ocean perch, or mackerel. Reservations suggested.

WEST TORONTO. This is about the most authentically Japanese sushi you're likely to find anywhere. Every ingredient is imported from Japan, including the rice and the fish. You won't find any California rolls or uniquely Western concoctions. Every dish on the menu is truly Japanese, such as abalone tempura, marinated fluke with lotus root, grilled chicken and garlic and, of course, the sushi and sashimi that earned Kaji his stellar reputation. Prix fixe option only, ranging from CAN80-CAN120.