Even the most fabulous among us needs the occasional refresh to stay splendid. For Kasa Moto, the time has come for a new look, a new menu and a reimagining of what it takes to be one of Yorkville’s top spots.
Since opening in 2015, Kasa Moto has ranked high among Yorkville denizens. Eager to sample the eatery’s modern Japanese cuisine and bespoke cocktails while aloofly observing their competition, locals have consistently flocked to the stylish space at 115 Yorkville Avenue. Still, after eight frisky years, with the pandemic finally in the rearview, the team wanted to make a statement — to its loyal clientele and to each other — that a new, purpose-driven era for Kasa Moto has arrived.
Led by Kayla Pongrac, co-founder of Iron and Ivory Design, and textile design studio Candice Kaye Design, the multilevel space has been given a complete, contemporary upgrade. Throughout, deluxe finishes, muted tones and hand-painted murals inspired by vintage Japanese textiles make for a sophisticated backdrop to every morsel. With seats at the marble bar, the sushi counter, booths that feel like a private escape, or at wrap-around banquettes, diners can choose the Kasa Moto experience they prefer. “It was an honour to collaborate with the team at Kasa Moto and redesign this iconic space,” said Pongrac, in a press release.
Beyond the brilliant new look, Kasa Moto’s menu has also been reimagined with a variety of vibrant new dishes — divided between hot, cold, raw, and crispy starters, and mains that range from noodles, and maki to signature stunners. Though certain customer favourites have survived on the expansive list, you’ll want to sample executive chef Jia Zou’s fresh, Japanese-inspired plates. New for lunch, bento boxes invite guests on a joyous journey from item to item. Both the Beef Bento and Pork Katsu Bento arrive with sashimi, house slaw, steamed edamame, fried rice and the eponymous star. Prime flatiron, with accompanying sweet yakiniku sauce, boasts a grilled exterior while remaining perfectly-pink within. Golden and light, the pork loin option has a devilishly crisp panko coating and tender bite to thank for its charm.
Wagyu Carpaccio and Scallop Ceviche appetizers each command attention with skillfully-layered flavours and bold presentations. Chef’s signature Pork Loin needs no improvement save, perhaps, for a more descriptive name. Served over imported binchotan charcoal, the meat is encircled by a diaphanous cloak of smoke that flavours every bite. With shishito harissa and nashi pear, the effect is savoury, sweet, and — for meat lovers — inarguably mesmerizing.
For its redesigned cocktail offerings, the team tapped beverage savant Ben Kingstone to work his magic. “Kasa Moto is a landmark in our city and it was important to craft a new mixture of signature and trendy cocktails for our guests to enjoy,” said Kingstone, in a press release. "When customers stop by Kasa Moto for a memorable dining experience or late evening celebration, we want them to enjoy an unparalleled hospitality experience.”
Thoughtfully envisioned, each drink from the bar is exciting yet familiar. Made with Kingstone’s secretive “sustainable citrus juice,” Northern Skies is a gently-spiced, warming elixir bolstered with dark and white rum. Lively and bright, Tokyo Minute combines yuzu Ketel One, Bols Triple Sec, lychee jasmine cordial, and ginger shrub into a tipple that lasts only as long as its name implies.
Despite its high-end looks and refined offerings, Kasa Moto offers welcome and comfort in a neighbourhood where soul often falls victim to style. Experience a reimagined Kasa Moto daily, between 12 p.m. to 1 a.m.
