Corner Brook to St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada

A rest stop just east of Gander in Newfoundland, Canada.

The drive from Corner Brook to St. John’s, Newfoundland is a long one. Almost 700 kilometres long using the Trans Canada Highway; it’s really the only main highway in Newfoundland (with smaller routes that branch off). Not the most fun drive in the world.

I can’t complain, though. Although there were no moose sightings, there are lakes upon lakes of shimmering water surrounded by the rocky landscape seen in most photos of Newfoundland. The dark red colours and sometimes desolate, sometimes forest-covered land is unapologetic in its rugged good looks.

The weather also cooperated with a bright day that grew warm in the sunshine. It made for the most pleasant conditions we could have asked for. We were also giving a ride to a Newfy who had just moved to St. John’s from Corner Brook and who needed to get back there, so it was an added bonus in terms of good company.

Basho Restaurant's Omakase Sushi Dish in St. John's, Newfoundland (Canada).

But I have to admit, what got me through was knowing that at 7:00 pm, we had a reservation at Basho Restaurant & Lounge (283 Duckworth Street, 709-576-4600), reputedly the premier Japanese restaurant in St. John’s.

I was going through sushi withdrawal so we ordered a huge omakase plate to share. Of course, we also indulged in two martinis from the two-page list of custom cocktails. The chocolate was a bit strong for me (alcohol, not chocolate!), but the Passionade was pitch perfect.

Unfortunately, Basho doesn’t specialize in sushi, but in fusion Japanese cuisine. We should have followed everyone else in the joint, who were clearly regulars, and ordered from the rest of the menu, but we were jonesing for rolls. Because the prices are very high, it’s best to go for non-sushi items to get the best food. Oh well, next time… The rolls were still delicious.     

Basho Restaurant's Chocolate Martini in St. John's, Newfoundland (Canada).

What I Liked:

• The ultra trendy atmosphere could have been in any major Canadian city.
• Chef Tak Ishiwata came out to speak with us and told us of his new creation with oysters. It wasn’t on the menu tonight because he didn’t have his shuckers, but someone try it out and report back!