{Supreme Beef Teppanyaki Rice $8.99}

I was quite surprised to learn that there was a rather long ling up for the new pepper lunch establishment at First Markham place. I mean, that little spot at the corner of this plaza had never gotten so much traffic. Restaurants previously situated at that spot, sadly, never last and I was never able to keep up with what's the current one. Hopefully, the new Aka Teppan will last since based on my recent experience, this place seems promising and offers a different cuisine amongst the many pho, Korean and sushi eateries in Markham.

{Tsuki Don $13 - California Don topped with assorted diced sashimi}

When it comes to Izakaya, I think of loud and lively Japanese pub-like restaurants, accompanying bite size, tapas-style portion food. Here at Tsuki Izakaya on Yonge, I'm surprised to learn that they are quieter than most Izakayas I've been to, like Guu and Fin. It's good to have a change of ambience as I find the bustling noises can be quite annoying if you just want to chat. Perhaps because it was on a Sunday, it wasn't busy at all. The portion of their food is larger than the other Izakayas and also slightly pricier in comparison. They have a pretty diverse menu, including both Japanese and Korean dishes, rice, sushi rolls, sashimis and grilled meat.

I finally made it to Cherry Blossoms season at High Park this year! Where was I all these years in Toronto, you ask? No clue. I always seem to be very busy during that time of the year so the idea did not come on top of my head and when I finally realize, everyone has already went or that the petals have already fallen. Yet, this year, thankfully a friend initiated the idea and reminded me of it. So, we quickly set a side a day for Sakura Hanami and prepared our cameras to catch these beautiful flowers in full bloom.

I saw this Groupon deal for Hapa Izakaya recently and thought it would be nice to try out this restaurant with my friends. The deal that we got was $15 for a $30 worth of food and drinks for at least two people. I called in to make a reservation just to confirm that it is available on the day and time we wanted. The staff told us that only 6:30 time slot is available on that Saturday night and that we have to leave at around 8 because a large group of party will be dining at 8:30. I actually didn't think it was really welcoming for a first time customer to get an early leave request on their initial visit. But, anyway, reservation booked. Groupon bought. On the Friday, I got a call from the restaurant confirming the time and again they asked us if we could leave at around 8 because of the party. Okay! I get it. Then, on the day of, we arrived at exactly 6:30 pm sharp. The staff greeted us when we asked for our table and for the third time they asked us if we could leave at 8 pm for the party to come in after. Wow. Pushy much? I haven't even sat down and ordered yet.

I finally made it to Sansotei Ramen one Saturday afternoon for lunch. I made a few attempts to visit this well praised restaurant but all times were unsuccessful. Either the noodles were sold out or it was closed because it was a Sunday.

I'm glad there was no line ups when I was there with my friend a month ago. The hype probably died down a bit or perhaps the crowd normally don't crave for ramen in the afternoon. The restaurant is located downtown, a small urban decor of casual wood furnitures. We were lucky to get seated right away. Their menu is very simple. I always have the perception of thinking that if the menu is short listed, it means that the restaurant is specialized on those dishes.