Nestled in the heart of Toronto's entertainment district, Minami is part of Aburi Restaurants Canada. This restaurant offers one of the largest selections of sake in the city, in addition to original cocktails, beer, and wine. Minami has a drinks-focused venue that is perfect for those looking for a fun night out. The interior design of the restaurant takes inspiration from Minami flame-seared sushi, with the aim to infuse warmth and fire into the environment. During the day, natural light pours into the space, highlighting the thematic colours of orange and red that can be found throughout the elevated restaurant and bar. The space is divided into a lounge area, dining banquettes, and a main dining room. The lighting plays a significant role in defining the mood, as the space shifts from daytime to evening dining. Back-lit arches, leading from the kitchen to the lounge, cast a warm glow over diners. Minami also features stunning art pieces, as seen in all seven Aburi properties. DesignAgency, in collaboration with Toronto-based designers Moss and Lam, created a custom hanging fabric art installation in the bar. This installation creates a flickering ember effect, bringing the height of the ceiling down to provide a sense of intimacy.
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Famous Japanese artist Hideki Kimura was commissioned to create a giant mural for the restaurant, which is displayed as a feature wall in the main dining room and as a translucent glass application between the lounge and main entry. The mural, with its unique symbols such as carp fish, lotus flowers, elephants, and peacocks, is drawn in Kimura's inimitable style.The menu at Minami offers a range of dishes, including bentos, bowls, and rectangular oshi sushi, as well as meat-based dishes like the citrus-glazed charcoal aburi chicken with truffle kimizu, kurozu vinaigrette, and radish. Minami branches out from its sister restaurants with an exciting cocktail program that will be available once dine-in resumes.The interior design of Minami is truly remarkable, with every surface conveying a warm yet contemporary aesthetic. The installation of 90 gossamer red and orange painted fabric sheets softly billows from the ceiling in front of the wooden bar, mimicking the flicker of a fire. The plush leather seating and arched backlit screen further emphasize a sense of intimacy. DesignAgency has captured the layered intricacies of Minami's food in its design, and guests are sure to enjoy the dining experience at this unique restaurant. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or looking to treat yourself, Minami is a must-visit destination for all Japanese cuisine lovers.
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