Toko

General Manager Kiehyon Yoo remarked about the décor: ‘It’s not so much what we’ve done; it’s what we’ve undone.‘ Expect earthy, natural tones that are the perfect foil to the funky, upbeat atmosphere. You won’t even mind not being able to book for dinner – Kiehyon is an expert at juggling! While you wait, chat to Bar Manager Paul Birtwistle (ex Zuma), who’s also the sake sommelier. Let him show you his favourite – Sato No Homare Kurogin Junmai Ginjo ($112/bottle, $55/bamboo, $11/glass). Rest assured, the food is amazing ‘ the Dengaku Nasu ($9.20) (or eggplant with sweet miso) had me exclaiming: ‘At last, rewarding, challenging, complex vegetarian food!‘ The San Tem ($19.50) (or chef’s selection of sashimi) came with salmon and two types of tuna, and was a textural sensation! From the Robata Grill, the Kamo Nashi Namasu ($28.20) (or duck breast with Sansho pepper and pickled nashi pear) was simply perfect. I also enjoyed a bowl of Spicy Edamame ($6.30); cooed over the great soft-shell crab in the Watari-gani Kara-age ($15.90); and marvelled at the perfectly cooked huge king prawns in the Kuruma Ebi Yuzu Fumi ($18.20). It’s a huge menu, there’s plenty to enjoy; and it’s now open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays!

Toko
490 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Ph: (02) 9357 6100
Japanese $$$-$$$$