Toronto restaurant that was a local staple closes after almost a decade

A Toronto restaurant and cafe that gained a cult following for its unique blends has closed its doors permanently after almost a decade in the neighbourhood.

It's been a storied several years for Chef Koki Oguchi, marked by various ventures on the Japanese cuisine scene, including handmade udon spot Bushi Udon Kappo and Danforth's long-shuttered Sakawaya.

It was upon returning to Danforth and opening Sakawa Coffee in 2016, though, that he really struck gold.

The cafe and Japanese restaurant truly had something for everyone, serving up a quirky combination of coffee and lattes alongside classic Japanese cuisine, from udon and sashimi to katsu and karaage.

While the mix was perhaps unlikely, it cemented Sakawa as a neighbourhood staple; the kind of place you could visit at 7 a.m. for your morning cup of joe and return to at 7 p.m. for a casual dinner and drinks — just the type of place that thrives on Danforth.

But after nine years, it appears to be the end of the road for Sakawa Coffee, as the restaurant quietly shuttered in late April, leaving only a note in the window as confirmation.

A notice posted in the window informs of Sakawa's closure. Photo by buddroyce. 

"After nearly a decade of serving this wonderful community, we are deeply saddened to announce that we have decided to permanently close our doors," the note, penned by Koki and posted in the window, reads.

"The journey has been nothing short of incredible, and we owe it all to you — our loyal customers, friends and supporters who have made every moment so special."

At the time of publication, the Sakawa team has not responded to requests for comment on the reasons behind the closure, or whether Koki plans to open any new ventures in the future. If history serves, though, it won't be long before Koki brings his mastery of Japanese cuisine back to the Toronto food scene.

Sakawa Coffee was located at 867 Danforth Ave.