ematei toronto

Popular Japanese restaurant closes after 30 years in Toronto

Since 1989, it was a Japanese culinary hideaway in downtown Toronto. Now, Ematei is closed.

It is hard to imagine this now, but when the restaurant opened 30 years ago, sushi was still gaining popularity in the city. Three decades later, Japanese food is a staple for many Torontonians.

The Takano family owned and managed the restaurant throughout the entire time it was open.

The restaurant owners didn’t announce why they were closing, but they put up a handwritten note on their door at 30 St Patrick St. last month announcing that the restaurant would be closed two days later on June 16.

“To all our customers a very special thank you for your loyal patronage,” the sign read.

Many Torontonians will have to find a new go-to lunchtime bento box spot.

Lead photo by

Hannah Alberga


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in Eat & Drink

Toronto actor confused after buying protein bar box with individually wrapped wood

10 new restaurants that opened in Toronto this summer you need to try

You can buy the actual bar from Toronto's legendary Brunswick House

People in Ontario drag Wendy's after conflicting promotion chaos

Here are 25 highlights from Toronto's Roncesvalles Polish Festival

Toronto neighbourhood devastated after local grocer suddenly shuts down

Toronto restaurant scene called out after TikToker served 'foul and disgusting' $25 salad

Toronto restaurant issues disclaimer after customer asks for ketchup on shawarma