Sakura Bliss at Akira Back Delivers the Best of Spring in Spades

It’s that time of year again. Spring showers are here, cherry blossoms are on the cusp of blooming and the temperature continues to toe the line between stubbornly sharp and comfortably warm. Deep in the throes of this atmospheric limbo, we can’t help but want to skip to the good part—thankfully, Akira Back is catering to our collective escapism.

Situated in Toronto’s Bisha Hotel, Akira Back is delivering the best that springtime has to offer with Sakura Bliss, an immersive cherry blossom installation. Towering floral displays by The Rustic Vine breathe new life into the space, creating the perfect backdrop for enjoing  a limited-time menu that sings with seasonal flavours.

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Photography courtesy of INK Entertainment and Akira Back

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From the mind of Chef Akira Back

Once a professional snowboarder, Chef Akira Back has always had a soft spot for adventure. Now at the helm of multiple renowned restaurants (including Yellowtail and Kumi on the Las Vegas Strip), these days, he seeks thrills through his culinary exploits.

Combining Japanese cuisine with familiar flavours from his Korean heritage, he delivers a multicultural dining experience at his eponymous restaurant—his first in Canada.

A glimpse into the menu

Available until the end of May, the limited-edition Sakura Bliss menu is built on seasonality and refinement. Bringing together fresh elements, superior ingredients and expert cooking techniques, it’s a testament to Akira Back’s commitment to delectable dishes and unadulterated luxury. 

One of the menu’s key offerings is Haru ($17), a palate-whetting concoction that captures the spirit of the season. Think sake, Campari, grapefruit juice and a kiss of Prosecco—the perfect springtime cocktail.

Seafood lovers are bound to love the Blossom Platter ($130), which spotlights a colourful combination of sashimi, nigiri and the restaurant’s signature roll. Toru-Rin ($17) caps off the meal on a sweet note. Translating to “peach orchard,” the textural dessert builds on the flavours of white peach, matcha and cotton candy.

The Sakura Bliss installation and limited-time menu are available from April 25 to May 31. Learn more about Akira Back here.