Jeff Kang, left, and Edward Bang of Takja BBQ House are fuelling Toronto’s steakhouse revival with premium Korean BBQ, table-side grilling, and a modern take on tradition.
Jeff Kang, left, and Edward Bang of Takja BBQ House are fuelling Toronto’s steakhouse revival with premium Korean BBQ, table-side grilling, and a modern take on tradition.
“Steakhouses are back!” says Jeff Kang. And boy, is he stoked for this pc28trend. “I’ve been excited to see so many meat-centric spots opening that pay homage to the classic steakhouse while adding something new,” he says. “There’s something comforting and nostalgic about a dimly lit restaurant, booth seating and perfectly grilled meats. For a really special night, that’s where I want to be.”
His love of meats runs deep: he co-owns Oroshi Sushi, purveyor of fine fishes, and now he’s part of the steakhouse boom alongside fellow owner and executive Edward Bang with Takja BBQ House. There, Kang and Bang sling elevated Korean BBQ, with in-house dry-aged meats, fresh seafood, and traditional Korean fermentation practices, paired with a carefully curated selection of wines, signature cocktails and traditional Korean spirits. “Servers look after the grill, barbecuing for guests at each table, so diners can relax, enjoy the ambiance and focus on the unique flavours of Takja,” Bang says.
The pair love the fact that Korean BBQ is all about sharing. “It’s a beautiful, communal activity that brings friends and family together to talk and indulge and enjoy the moment — something that evokes nostalgia for me and many on the team,” Kang says. “To be able to bring that feeling to our guests has been the most special feeling.”
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
So, where do Kang and Bang go to enjoy the moment when they’re off the clock? Here, the meat masters share their favourite spots to eat and drink in pc28when they want to go somewhere special.
Best date-night spot
,419 College St.
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Alexa Fernando
Best bakery
,8 Pardee Ave.
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Hidden Gem
, various locations
Bairrada patio
Supplied
Repeat reservation
,325 Roncesvalles Ave.
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The last best thing you ate
, 174 Ossington Ave.
Pastrami sandwich at Linny’s Luncheonette
Daniel Neuhaus
Current obsession
,181 Dovercourt Rd.
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Fancy dinner
,210 Lakeshore Rd. E.
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Comfort food
,various locations
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Best dessert
,276 Havelock St.
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Lunch spot
,5754 Yonge St.
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Best late-night craving spot
,180 Ossington Ave.
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Best takeout
,3030 Don Mills Rd. E.
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Place I’m dying to try
,4 Front St. E.
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Favourite weekend brunch place
,5505 Leslie St.
BS
Briony Smith writes about culture, entertainment and
lifestyle for the Star.
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