Started in 2015, Maki My Way currently operates two locations in downtown Toronto in the Theatre and Financial districts. Amongst the busy theatre row restaurants, this establishment is definitely more low-key and their quick-service concept is ideal for those who want a fast affordable meal.
If you
couldn’t tell by their name, Maki My Way creates customizable rolls where customers
choose not only the ingredients inside the maki but also the sauces, garnishes,
and wrapper as well. Starting at $8.50 for a set number of choices (one
protein, two vegetables, two garnishes, and two sauces), additional items above
the standard are about $0.50 apiece.
We
created a light summer roll made with Cajun albacore tuna (additional $1.50),
asparagus, avocado, tempura bits, and masago
all wrapped in a soya sheet that’s a lighter alternative to seaweed. Rob, founder
of Maki My Way, finds the soya wrapper also absorbs the other ingredient’s
flavours more. The crunch of the asparagus was essential against the otherwise
softer ingredients and I was pleased with our creation, the highlight of the
meal.
Despite
not waiting long, the kitchen brought over an order of edamame ($2.50) to tide
us over. They were nice and hot covered in enough salt for flavour, without
leaving me thirsty.
Personally,
I found these were a better way to start than the chicken karage ($5.50); if white meat is used, it needs to be marinated as
the chicken was a little tough and dry. Luckily, there was a liberal dousing of
mayonnaise based sauce on top that helped rehydrate the appetizer.
For
$9.50 there was a hefty portion of springy yakisoba noodles tossed in a sweet
teriyaki glaze and an equally sizeable pork katsu
on top. Although well flavoured, similar to the karage, the katsu was
overdone so the pork bordering dry and chewy. Personally, I think the noodles
would have been better with slivers of meat instead, since the stir fried
noodles itself were very good with all the vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, red
peppers, and carrots).
The environmentalist
side of me was a little disappointed to see disposable containers being used
even for dine-in customers. Understandably, it helps simplify operations but
with the amount of people visiting even during our lunch meal, the throw-away containers
do a great disservice to Earth.
Cutting
down on waste is key, as this fall, Maki My Way may be expanding after Rob visits Dragon’s Den
to pitch a franchise deal. He noted he’s taking the next step as
customers who visit their King locations often ask when they can order
customized maki closer to home. For picky eaters or those with food aversions,
being able to choose what to add to a roll is a great idea. Good luck facing
the dragons in the den.
Disclaimer: The above meal was complimentary. Rest assured, as noted in my mission statement, I will always provide an honest opinion.
How To Find Them
Location: Toronto, Canada
Address: 293 King Street West
Address: 293 King Street West
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Gastro World's Grading System
- Anything under 5 - I really disliked and will never go back
- 6 - decent restaurant but I likely won't return
- 7 - decent restaurant and I will likely return
- 8 - great restaurant that I'd be happy to recommend
- 9 - fantastic restaurant that I would love to visit regularly and highly recommend
- 10 - absolute perfection!
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