The Sushi Experiment Observations - Related Image.
Comparing Guu Toronto to Guu Richmond.
Graphic/CLARK KIM
After attempting to replicate the conditions of the Sushi Experiment under the methodology stated in this previous blog, I have the preliminary results.
But first I should note, in the interest of full disclosure, that Guu, in hindsight, is not the best place to have conducted such a landmark study that could have major implications on how people start to perceive raw fish from coast to coast.
Guu being an izakaya bar doesn't offer a full complement of sushi/sashimi plates. So the food evaluated is based not only on sushi alone but side dishes such as yakiudon noodles and scallops. Also, Guu, doesn't have a set menu that is uniform across all locations despite it being a chain establishment.
Another note: I went with one other peer reviewer to both Guu establishments rather than two (time scheduling just didn't work out...) but I believe this partner to be impartial as he's lived in both Vancouver and Toronto.
Last note: There are several Guu restaurants in the Greater Vancouver Area and the one we visited was Guu Richmond (I was told by my Vancouver friends to specifically mention that point as they assured me the locations in Vancouver proper are more reputable).
You guys still with me? Ok good.
The judging was based on three criteria (each out of five for a potential total score of 15): (1) Quality of food/Plating, (2) General atmosphere of establishment, (3) Service/Wait time.
While we couldn't order exactly the same items, we attempted to find something similar between Guu Toronto and Guu Richmond. They were some variation of a tuna dish, scallops, and yakiudon noodles.
I'll just get onto the results. My personal assessment for Guu Toronto:
- Food/Plating: 3.5/5 (surprisingly fresh and flavourful)
- Atmosphere: 4/5 (lively even after 10:30 p.m. on a weeknight)
- Service: 3/5 (long wait times, 45 minutes to get in, food came out slowly, waitresses polite)
Guu Richmond:
- Food/Plating: 3.5/5 (a little salty but not more so than the Toronto location)
- Atmosphere: 3/5 (quite dead after 10:30 p.m. on a weeknight)
- Service: 4/5 (fast service, efficient, waiters polite)
As you can see, my totals (10.5/15) ended up being equal for each location, which means the judging would be decided by my fellow peer reviewer.
To summarize, he believed the food and atmosphere to be better in Guu Toronto, but agreed the service at Guu Richmond was superior. Adding up the totals, he gave Toronto 11/15 and Richmond 10.5/15.
There you have it folks. Guu Toronto beats Guu Richmond.
I now welcome the scientific community to weigh in on the validity of this experiment. Let the debate begin.
(And yes, for all you Vancouverites, I promise to check out the Guu Robson location next time and assess accordingly...)