TORONTO — Michelin-star chef Akira Back opened the doors of his newest Canadian restaurant in Toronto’s King West neighbourhood this week.
DASHA’s modern Chinese menu blends traditional techniques with innovative flavours and takes diners on a journey through East Asia. Dishes include steamed Har Gow (prawns, chili and sweet topan sauce wrapped in a dumpling); black cod with teriyaki sauce, asparagus and shacha sauce; Angry Chicken coated in chili and Szechuan; and wasabi prawns cooked in black and red tobilo and topped with wasabi crema.
The 9,000-sq.-ft. space also offers a creative cocktail list, including the Green Goddess (Bombay gin, ginger, edamame, nori, wasabi, cucumber and mint) and the Halo Halo Mei Ren (Tromba tequila, pomegranate, jackfruit, coconut, ube, lotus root and choya), as well as a large selection of bottled beers and wines.
The two-level, 140-seat restaurant, owned by Honeycomb Hospitality, was designed by Toronto’s Solid Design Creative Inc. With a modern vibe and inventive dining experience, DASHA boasts stylishly crafted private rooms and extravagant decor. A floor-to-ceiling mural graces the large spiral staircase that provides a focal point for the main-floor dining room and bar. A mix of high-tops, traditional tables and circular banquettes offer a great view of the bustling open kitchen.
The second floor houses private dining rooms, as well as five karaoke rooms that can accommodate up to 15 people each. It’s also home to the “secret speakeasy” with its own bar and private entrance from the back alley.
