Don Don Izakaya
Don Don Izakaya is a Japanese restaurant in downtown Toronto with casual interiors, long tables, and Japanese decor where guests hear loud Japanese greetings and enthusiastic staff upon entering. The menu offers a wide selection of Japanese favorites like sashimi, sushi, and small plates for sharing, served hot and quickly with pictures to help with ordering.
The restaurant has been operating for several years and became popular for its energetic atmosphere and fast service. Over time it has evolved, with some regulars mentioning that food preparation was once more careful, while others appreciate the current pace and lively vibe.
The name 'Don Don' comes from the sound of a drum and also means 'more of' in Japanese, emphasizing abundance and sharing. The restaurant encourages diners to eat and drink together at communal tables, creating a social setting where guests feel part of a lively group rather than dining alone.
The restaurant is open late afternoon through late night daily on Dundas Street West in a busy neighborhood with nearby shops and other venues. Special rooms are available for groups of six or more, where one bill is issued for the entire table with an 18 percent service charge included.
The restaurant hosts a regular Sake Bomb Contest where friends playfully try to pour sake into their mouths as a game. Friday and Saturday nights feature live DJ music, which adds a festive element to dining and drinking that sets it apart from typical Japanese restaurants.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
