Shinta Japanese BBQ is located in the Empress Walk at North York Centre subway station, which now makes three AYCEs in the same location that we have reviewed, as well as another Shinta location in Richmond Hill; Shinta is physically attached to Haru Shabu Shabu hotpot via a shared entrance, so probably has the same owners. Reusable chopsticks are used. This is a new location which has several menus, some of which are very expensive, including Wagyu, but we went for the “inexpensive” lunch menu weekend option. Pop is $2.45 canned not AYCD and no Coke Zero available; Mishy complained that the Diet Coke was warm. There is also sprinkling spice which was heavy on the cumin.
We both loved the green salad as it had a very good dressing and was fresh. Miso soup was unfortunately watered down and would have been good if it wasn't. Kimchi was quite good with some heat. Takoyaki was very good, as it should be it is the same one at as Haru Shabu Shabu next door.
Home-made Berkshire sausage was sweet and flavorful. Toro bacon is belly bacon very thick cut and fatty but was delicious, although Mishy didn't care for it. Seafood medley had little shells in it and I was dreading it, but thankfully they were not mussels and I was able to enjoy them. Chicken thighs were excellent and very well seasoned. Mishy thought all of the meats were too fatty and didn't really have a good time, although she did love the cheesy corn. I had no issues, especially with the beef dishes, but although good the quality was not spectacular. Mishy also complained that the bibimbap was undercooked and the egg too runny and didn't taste good, but again no issues here... mine was fine.
For dessert the soft serve ice cream was out, so the only option was a Melona bar either honeydew or coconut. Weekend lunch was $30.99; this is about $8 more than Korean Grill House these days which has reduced its price and has similar offerings and sides, and equivalent to Gyubee in cost, though we preferred the latter.
Rating: 7 - 7.5 / 10
