Expertly Carved Sashimi: Toro Bar Opens in 1949

This posh sushi bar within the 1949 courtyard complex was formerly the Sugar Bar dessert cafe. Chef Martin’s five years in Japan show in his expertly carved sashimi and carefully prepared sushi rolls.

Menu also includes a brief barbecue selection (including salmon steak, king prawn and codfish) and excellent tempura.

The toro (fatty tuna belly) comes airlifted-in frozen from Tokyo’s fish markets. But better to skip this overfished, overpriced catch and instead reel in some of the fresh Dalian fare on display.

Good for: Healthy, fresh Japanese delicacies on the expense account.
While you’re in the neighborhood: Stop by before or after an event at the Bookworm.

Signature dishes:
Salmon, octopus or snapper sushi (RMB 20-25) fresh from Dalian
Tempura (RMB 28-58)
Sliced Kobe beef grilled with onion (RMB 300)
The sea urchin (RMB 35), a wobbly orb of butter-yellow deliciousness, is like a salty sea breeze whipping away five months of winter
On a hot day, try the Inaniwa udon noodles served cold over ice cubes (RMB 28)

Daily 11.30am-2.30pm, 6-11pm. 1949–The Hidden City, Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu (opposite the south gate of Pacific Century Place Mall), Chaoyang District. (6501 1949)
朝阳区工体北路4号院 (太平洋百货南门对面)

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