I'm not afraid to admit it: I'm on a hunt to try out the complete slew of poke stops that Toronto has to offer. (Well, maybe not all of them, but surely those that don't pose an enormous difficulty to transit to.)
New outposts are popping up throughout the downtown core at an alarming rate, with some even spreading uptown to relieve the fishy desires of North York and Markham residents alike. With each shop introducing an individualistic flair of their own, it's become increasingly onerous to monitor and evaluate the numerous options on a fair scale.
New outposts are popping up throughout the downtown core at an alarming rate, with some even spreading uptown to relieve the fishy desires of North York and Markham residents alike. With each shop introducing an individualistic flair of their own, it's become increasingly onerous to monitor and evaluate the numerous options on a fair scale.
After trying the Pokito's hip, tropical Hawaiian Guacamole and Poke Guys' simple but well-received bowls, I was ready to undertake a new challenger. Venturing a bit further east on a humble side street saw the small and unexpected location of The Poke Box.
I'm not entirely certain what type of establishment had occupied by the super-compact space beforehand, but from the grey exterior and stony-looking concrete steps, it appeared to be anything but a poke restaurant when viewed from the outside. While the front-facing side was primarily composed of glass panes (all windows and the door), signage was extremely minimal and it hadn't occurred to us that we passed it until we carefully scanned the vicinity for landmark hints.
I'm not entirely certain what type of establishment had occupied by the super-compact space beforehand, but from the grey exterior and stony-looking concrete steps, it appeared to be anything but a poke restaurant when viewed from the outside. While the front-facing side was primarily composed of glass panes (all windows and the door), signage was extremely minimal and it hadn't occurred to us that we passed it until we carefully scanned the vicinity for landmark hints.
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While probably unintentional, I find it amusing that The Poke Box is, essentially, a box. From the exterior design to the store layout to the menu board to the infinite crates of avocado, boxiness was included in every possible way, rendering a steady sense of cohesiveness. Food-related puns and simple images had also been placed along the perimeter of the inside for added vibrance.
Before noon, the establishment was enveloped in a tranquil emptiness. We took our time in analyzing the available options, and the staff readily took to answering to our concerns and inquiries without delay. The general concept of offering both signature and customized creations was present, but the main differences were that The Poke Box carried a Poke of the Day selection and that bowls had been substituted with takeout-friendly brown boxes (as indicated by its name).
It was observed that their in-house creations and signature bowls comprised of pre-marinated species, while the BYOB choices usually combined fresh fish with customers' preferred sauce(s) and slapped on additional charges for specialty picks (ie. tuna and avocado).
Before noon, the establishment was enveloped in a tranquil emptiness. We took our time in analyzing the available options, and the staff readily took to answering to our concerns and inquiries without delay. The general concept of offering both signature and customized creations was present, but the main differences were that The Poke Box carried a Poke of the Day selection and that bowls had been substituted with takeout-friendly brown boxes (as indicated by its name).
It was observed that their in-house creations and signature bowls comprised of pre-marinated species, while the BYOB choices usually combined fresh fish with customers' preferred sauce(s) and slapped on additional charges for specialty picks (ie. tuna and avocado).
In addition to the no-nonsense menu boasting an impeccable degree of clarity, majority of the topping ingredients were also labelled on the surprisingly smudge-free barrier. Despite this, it still took my friend and I a substantial amount of time before finally settling on the Rainbow Poke and Poke Box.
From previous experiences, the standard base options usually comprise of white sushi rice, brown rice, and spring mix. I've witnessed sweet potato slaw and soba noodles as well, but the spiralized zucchini noodles and purple-brown rice "Grain Blend" were refreshing alternatives to lay eyes on.
From previous experiences, the standard base options usually comprise of white sushi rice, brown rice, and spring mix. I've witnessed sweet potato slaw and soba noodles as well, but the spiralized zucchini noodles and purple-brown rice "Grain Blend" were refreshing alternatives to lay eyes on.
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Both bowls - er, boxes - permitted personalized bases, sides, and additional sauces and toppings. Where Poke Box automatically included all three salads (Wakame salad, a Tropical Slaw of spiced pineapple chunks, and unseasoned, shredded sunomono Crab Salad), the Rainbow Poke permitted the two salads. (One of the staff members bearing a manager-like aura kindly squeezed in a small portion for me when he overheard my playful complaint though.)
Both bowls - er, boxes - permitted personalized bases, sides, and additional sauces and toppings. Where Poke Box automatically included all three salads (Wakame salad, a Tropical Slaw of spiced pineapple chunks, and unseasoned, shredded sunomono Crab Salad), the Rainbow Poke permitted the two salads. (One of the staff members bearing a manager-like aura kindly squeezed in a small portion for me when he overheard my playful complaint though.)
The Rainbow Poke was composed of salmon, tuna, and scallop (that oddly resembled snapper) marinated in a special soy sauce, thus I resisted the urge to layer Sweet Garlic Soy and other sodium-laden elements on top. Instead, I chose Wasabi Cream, Unagi, and Citrus Ponzu in hopes a subtle citrusy hint; it would have been wise to opt out of ponzu for next time though, since the base layer was much too saturated at the bottom-most layer. I initially also requested Roasted Sesame, but was advised against it due to flavour clash. They offered to place it in a separate container, which I later greatly appreciated since, admittedly, the sauce composition would have resulted in an odd taste.
Tobiko and pink pickled ginger did not induce any additional costs, which is always a plus in my books.
Tobiko and pink pickled ginger did not induce any additional costs, which is always a plus in my books.
Poke Box contained a crunchy mix of salmon, tuna, edamame, and cucumber tossed in a sesame-laden marinade.
Our picks were downright sensational: they were formidable in terms of flavour and texture profile, and also bore a beautiful array of diverse tones. Boasting a broad spectrum of fresh, nutritional ingredients and a multitude of complex flavours, the signature boxes immersed all senses in wonderful enchantment. It wasn't simply the Rainbow Poke that was colourful - both allowed us to taste the rainbow of the poke world.
Our picks were downright sensational: they were formidable in terms of flavour and texture profile, and also bore a beautiful array of diverse tones. Boasting a broad spectrum of fresh, nutritional ingredients and a multitude of complex flavours, the signature boxes immersed all senses in wonderful enchantment. It wasn't simply the Rainbow Poke that was colourful - both allowed us to taste the rainbow of the poke world.
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I particularly enjoyed bites of pineapple and pickled ginger (in Poke Box) between saucy scoops of fish and purple rice: the acidity further aided in breaking down enzymes and aiding digestion. Wakame salad and corn were chewy, tobiko and cucumber were crunchy, and the marinated chunks of fish were equal parts fleshy and flavorsome. An interesting topping choice was the coconut flakes - I had requested them out of curiosity, but discovered that they were actually barely noticeable during the consumption process as its size and aroma was overwhelmed by the other components in the box.
Portion sizes were also greatly commendable - regular-sized boxes ranged from $11.50 to $13.50 and were already more than substantial in satiating our ravaging appetites.
Portion sizes were also greatly commendable - regular-sized boxes ranged from $11.50 to $13.50 and were already more than substantial in satiating our ravaging appetites.
As we leisurely began to dig into our boxes, the small space soon filled with an extraordinary number of 9-to-5-ers. The lunch rush had officially hit.
A few bar seats (with outlets positioned high and low) were situated along one side of the shop. I appreciated this immensely, since I was in no particular rush at the time but also did not wish to hinder the busier bunch from returning to their daily duties. The corner spot allowed us to munch comfortably while using the shop's password-secured Wi-Fi.
A few bar seats (with outlets positioned high and low) were situated along one side of the shop. I appreciated this immensely, since I was in no particular rush at the time but also did not wish to hinder the busier bunch from returning to their daily duties. The corner spot allowed us to munch comfortably while using the shop's password-secured Wi-Fi.
Sources of illumination are plenty, service is quick and friendly, and selection is noteworthy - to sum it up, The Poke Box is a great source of healthy sustenance in the St. Lawrence area. Its location is convenient for Union commuters and Eaton-goers alike, and pleasant for drivers as well. For those extremely pressed for time, there's also Ritual, catering, and foodora delivery. All methods of payment are accepted, and receipts can also be emailed directly via Square (or Ritual).
Washrooms, should they be needed at all by the regular grab-and-go crown, can be found on the second floor of the adjacent commerical building.
Washrooms, should they be needed at all by the regular grab-and-go crown, can be found on the second floor of the adjacent commerical building.
I have little to no gripes at all, except that the shop isn't accessible due to their use of stairs, that the plastic barrier separating customers and that the ingredient bar sometimes blocks sounds from being transmitted well, causing potential miscommunication. The few lumps of dirt from the orchid and baby shrubbery near the large window won't hurt anyone, though my inner germophobe wouldn't mind the occasional wipe either.
The bottom line is: Arrive early for your daily dose of flavourful fish. The Poke Box is worth every penny.
We departed with satisfied tummies and huge grins on our faces.
We departed with satisfied tummies and huge grins on our faces.
Still satiated, I suggested wandering around the Cathedral Church of St. James for a short while, just as 왕개박게 had done so during their Hard Carry segment in Toronto.
Eventually, we moved onto to our next destination in fear of being blown away by gusty winds.
The newly-opened Teddy Story is a mere five-minute walk from our lunch location. At the northeast corner of Adelaide and Church, the cafe is clearly visible with its storefront bearing signage in both English and French (no pun intended).
With its entrance and shop window not extending past a longitudinal width of four meters, I entered with the expectation of witnessing a tiny, cozy cafe. To my surprise, the interior featured sufficient depth to house a reception desk, large chalkboard menu, countless giant teddy bears and teddy-related merchandise, a drink preparation area, refrigerated display case, sophisticated dining area, and spacious washroom stall.
A cute and comfortable aura oozed from within every corner - we had stepped foot in teddy bear heaven! The front half was stocked with distinctly furry babies of varying sizes, clothing for the bears, fluffy bear ornaments, soft bear-faced cushions and neck pillows, and even wearable plush pouches. Every inch of space featured a different furry friend in his or her own unique outfit; some even sported lace-up shoes!
The environment was addicting for a plushie-lover such as myself. Step by step, I inched towards the patio-like seating area, capturing a 360 view of my short trek. A huge digital print of teddies wearing teddy-themed clothing hung on a stark white wall above several two-person tables. A curtained presentation screen was situated at the very back; an overhead projector aired a modern version of Hamtaro with Chinese subtitles while mellow French and Japanese tunes played simultaneously.
The environment was addicting for a plushie-lover such as myself. Step by step, I inched towards the patio-like seating area, capturing a 360 view of my short trek. A huge digital print of teddies wearing teddy-themed clothing hung on a stark white wall above several two-person tables. A curtained presentation screen was situated at the very back; an overhead projector aired a modern version of Hamtaro with Chinese subtitles while mellow French and Japanese tunes played simultaneously.
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Once jackets had been shed and phones were plugged into their outlets, we gravitated towards the entrance to analyze their menu once more, with me hovering over their display case in awe at their delicately decorated desserts.
We were informed that the Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate and Strawberry Cupcake Cappuccino were amongst the most popular beverages, though both sounded too painfully sugary for our liking. Relative to the immaculate facility that we were standing in, I didn't find the prices to be as ridiculously high as I anticipated. Teddy Story was charging an equivalent amount to typical cafes in the downtown area and weren't even close to some of the price tags I've seen in North York (looking at you, Bake Code) or Markham (Initium).
We were informed that the Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate and Strawberry Cupcake Cappuccino were amongst the most popular beverages, though both sounded too painfully sugary for our liking. Relative to the immaculate facility that we were standing in, I didn't find the prices to be as ridiculously high as I anticipated. Teddy Story was charging an equivalent amount to typical cafes in the downtown area and weren't even close to some of the price tags I've seen in North York (looking at you, Bake Code) or Markham (Initium).
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Options seemed endless, though I was wary of the gimmicky feeling radiating off this bubble tea-like selection. (Some choices like milk tea are always safe, but I've definitely learned my lesson after ordering a Tea Mousse during the summer months. Ahem Chatime.)
The Organic Milk Tea were claimed to be concocted of real tea leaves as opposed to powder, but my eyes locked in on the three airtight containers in the preparation area. A series of beige, green, and brown powders stood side by side on one of their many shelves, presumably milk powder, green tea powder mix, and hot chocolate mix respectively. This is not to rebut the part-timer's previous statement; rather, it means that not all beverages are free from synthetics.
After much debate, we agreed on sharing a slice of Tiramisu Cheesecake and two piping cups of Lavender Green Tea and Citrus Oolong. Strangely enough, several options were only served hot, but a cup of ice was provided for sensitive tongues.
The Organic Milk Tea were claimed to be concocted of real tea leaves as opposed to powder, but my eyes locked in on the three airtight containers in the preparation area. A series of beige, green, and brown powders stood side by side on one of their many shelves, presumably milk powder, green tea powder mix, and hot chocolate mix respectively. This is not to rebut the part-timer's previous statement; rather, it means that not all beverages are free from synthetics.
After much debate, we agreed on sharing a slice of Tiramisu Cheesecake and two piping cups of Lavender Green Tea and Citrus Oolong. Strangely enough, several options were only served hot, but a cup of ice was provided for sensitive tongues.
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Rimmed cork coasters were delivered to our table, followed by steaming portions of tea in sleeve-donning paper cups. "L'Histoire de Teddy" read the label on the sleeve - I was briefly taken back by the fact that a Chinese-operated establishment chose to adopt a French name for their business, but enjoyed the company of mumbled French music and squishy teddies nonetheless.
The part-timer that had welcomed us into the cafe seemed dazed at times, but an evidently more superior staff member soon arrived to rectify that. She presented our requested slice of Tiramisu Cheesecake with swiftness atop a small plastic plate and a set of pink plastic forks. Teas in hand and bears around us, it was as if we were living the birthday party of a teddy bear-obsessed heiress daughter.
The part-timer that had welcomed us into the cafe seemed dazed at times, but an evidently more superior staff member soon arrived to rectify that. She presented our requested slice of Tiramisu Cheesecake with swiftness atop a small plastic plate and a set of pink plastic forks. Teas in hand and bears around us, it was as if we were living the birthday party of a teddy bear-obsessed heiress daughter.
It's essentially impossible to perform a poor job of brewing straight tea, so I don't believe there is much to be said regarding our tea choices except that we had made the appropriate decisions of pairing warm, fragrant drinks with creamy, indulgent cake.
While I was absorbed in shop decor and all its teddy-adorned glory, my friend observed the cake-slicing with scrutiny and relayed her thoughts to me. The part-timer had replied in the affirmative when I asked whether the pastries were made in-house, but the plastic container from which it was removed indicated inconsistency in her claim.
This aside, there was an unanimous nod that the slice was delicious and perfectly cheesy. Severely rich and decadent, it was clear that the body consisted of a significant amount of heavy cream and cream cheese. It would be inaccurate to compare the slice to a traditional tiramisu, as its graham cracker crust and lack of coffee liquor are more indicative of a Western-style cheesecake. The topmost layer of piping was likely cream or buttercream; the centre layer was perceived to be a mix of heavy cream, cream cheese, and mascarpone in unknown ratios. I will also not forego the possible addition of stabilizers.
While I was absorbed in shop decor and all its teddy-adorned glory, my friend observed the cake-slicing with scrutiny and relayed her thoughts to me. The part-timer had replied in the affirmative when I asked whether the pastries were made in-house, but the plastic container from which it was removed indicated inconsistency in her claim.
This aside, there was an unanimous nod that the slice was delicious and perfectly cheesy. Severely rich and decadent, it was clear that the body consisted of a significant amount of heavy cream and cream cheese. It would be inaccurate to compare the slice to a traditional tiramisu, as its graham cracker crust and lack of coffee liquor are more indicative of a Western-style cheesecake. The topmost layer of piping was likely cream or buttercream; the centre layer was perceived to be a mix of heavy cream, cream cheese, and mascarpone in unknown ratios. I will also not forego the possible addition of stabilizers.
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There was an absence of signage outside the single washroom stall, so I automatically assumed it to be a storage room until the staff members responded otherwise. The interior was well-lit, unpredictably immaculate, and equipped with high-quality toiletries. Two bottles of the ever-pricey live clean brand was found on either side of the sink; a shelf containing a basket of paper towels, air freshener, and other necessary supplies was situated adjacent to a medium-sized garbage bin. A black wire rack for storing toilet paper rolls negated the need for a floor-level cupboard and prevented awkward toilet paper-less situations.
Most commendable is that the at-grade stall also features low positioning of light switches, which is both accessible and children-friendly.
Most commendable is that the at-grade stall also features low positioning of light switches, which is both accessible and children-friendly.
Speaking of child-friendly, it is time to speak about the bears, which are the obvious highlight of the store. Taking personal preference and budget into consideration, Teddy Story's diverse inventory is bound to please even the pickiest of bear-lovers. From fur tone, joint fluidity, facial features, tail presence, coat length, degree of softness/rigidity, and size, there's likely a bear for everyone. Whether a child, or a child at heart, the furry friends are sure to please with their adorable, fluffy presence. The prices aren't outrageous either - some smooth-haired babies start at an affordable twelve dollars!
Personally, I would have loved to invest in one of my own, though firmly stood ground in fear of angering the companions of more senior status at home.
Personally, I would have loved to invest in one of my own, though firmly stood ground in fear of angering the companions of more senior status at home.
During our stay, we were not only graciously provided individually-wrapped chocolates and icy samples of strawberry smoothies, but also attended to every so often with very pleasant demeanour.
The quiet spot is a lovely destination for a girls' day catch-up session. It's also within walking distance to the Eaton Centre, making it the optimal location for a pre-shopping get-together or post-spree relaxation.
We opted for the former, and headed directly to the Eaton Centre afterwards to snap up Uniqlo's clearance sale on HeatTech. I also took to Sephora to claim a chocolate-scented Too Faced package that sold out much too quickly on the online shop.
Oh my, what's this?!
Uncle Tetsu's Matcha Cafe seems to have been replaced with a cheese tart shop?! Hmmmmm...
As droplets began to crash down on the hurried rush hour commuters, we made our final stop at the day at Fugo.
Shopping had worked up a slight appetite, which we suppressed with scoops of delicately flavoured Genmaicha and Houjicha.
Shopping had worked up a slight appetite, which we suppressed with scoops of delicately flavoured Genmaicha and Houjicha.
The Genmaicha was honestly more reminiscent of jasmine tea, exuding a floral fragrance but overall blandness. Houjicha was creamier with a more discernible flavour, though its roasted essence was by no means comparable to that of Tsujiri.
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