Nobu Toronto

Context

The Team

Nobu Toronto: A Symphony of Taste and Sound

Nobu Toronto, the first Canadian outpost of the world-renowned Nobu brand, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a meticulously crafted experience. Founded in 1994 by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, actor Robert De Niro, and movie producer Meir Teper, Nobu has become synonymous with adventurous fine dining globally. The Toronto location, a sprawling 10,000-square-foot, two-level, 278-seat establishment, is part of the larger Nobu Hotel, Restaurant & Residences project, adding a sophisticated new dimension to the city’s vibrant nightlife. Beyond its exceptional culinary offerings, Nobu Toronto distinguishes itself with a sumptuous sonic ambiance, made possible by an L-Acoustics X Series professional audio system, expertly designed by local consultant Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual and seamlessly integrated by The 192 Group.

The Challenge

The vision for Nobu Toronto extended beyond typical restaurant acoustics; it aimed to create an immersive environment where every element, including music, contributed to a high-end experience. The primary challenge was to integrate a powerful, event-grade sound system into the venue’s elegant and complex architecture without compromising its aesthetic. The system needed to provide uniform, high-quality audio coverage throughout the cavernous space, which includes a bar, lounge, private dining rooms, a sushi bar, and an outdoor terrace. Furthermore, the audio solution had to be versatile enough to handle both dynamic background music and robust reinforcement for visiting DJs, all while maintaining a sophisticated atmosphere that would not overpower diners. This necessitated a solution that combined high performance with discreet integration, a demanding requirement for a venue of this caliber.

The Solution

To meet these exacting demands, the project team opted for an L-Acoustics X Series professional audio system, a choice that aligned with Nobu’s existing brand standards for quality. Gregory Rushton, Vice President at Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual, highlighted the X Series’ ability to deliver high-performance sound within a remarkably compact footprint, making it ideal for discreet integration into the venue’s design. The 192 Group, led by President Corry McGibbon, seamlessly integrated Mulvey & Banani Audio Visual’s design. The chosen system consists of a distributed array of 22 coaxial X8 enclosures, one larger X12 enclosure, and 25 ultra-compact 5XT speakers, augmented by a dozen ceiling-mounted SB10i subwoofers across the two levels. The entire system is powered by LA7.16i and LA4X amplified controllers, providing precise control and flexibility. The LA7.16i controllers, in particular, proved crucial for managing the complexities of multiple zones within the bar and dining areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage and consistent audio quality. This sophisticated setup allows Nobu Toronto to achieve a “nightclub feeling” with the subs without overwhelming the dining experience, aligning with the evolving supper club and lounge scene in Toronto.

The Result

The L-Acoustics sound system has elevated Nobu Toronto to a new level of sophistication, providing a rich and engaging sonic backdrop that complements its world-class cuisine and elegant ambiance. The discreet installation of the X Series enclosures and SB10i subs ensures that the powerful audio performance is felt, not seen, blending seamlessly with the venue’s luxurious design. The system’s versatility has been proven during high-profile events, including the Toronto International Film Festival and Fashion Toronto, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback. The ability to seamlessly transition from curated background music to event-grade sound reinforcement for DJs has solidified Nobu Toronto’s position as a premier destination in the city’s refined nightlife scene.

Project photos