Hello Nori doesn’t try to do it all, and that’s part of its genius. The menu is streamlined and focused, revolving around hand rolls made fresh to order. Every roll arrives directly from the hands of the chef to yours, ensuring the nori stays crisp, the rice perfectly warm, and the ingredients impossibly fresh. The fillings—think fatty, melt-in-your-mouth Toro, Ocean Wise-certified Ora King Salmon, and sweet scallops—are carefully sourced from a mix of Canadian waters and select Japanese imports. It’s an experience that feels both intimate and intentional, where each bite captures the essence of what great sushi should be: simple, balanced, and memorable.

This approach isn’t surprising given Vancouver’s deep connection to Japanese cuisine. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean and its reputation for fresh, sustainable seafood have made it a hub for chefs who respect both the ingredients and the traditions behind them. Hello Nori brings that ethos to Toronto, but with a modern edge. The space, for instance, is as much a part of the experience as the food. The restaurant’s interior—a harmonious blend of wood, stone, and water—pays homage to nature while reflecting the urban vibrancy of its new King Street West home. It’s an aesthetic that feels both contemporary and rooted, much like the food itself.