When it comes to unique and flavorful dining experiences in Sydney, Toko Restaurant stands out as one of the top choices. With a rich history rooted in traditional Japanese cuisine, Toko combines fresh Australian ingredients with authentic Japanese techniques. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Toko offers a memorable dining experience that blends elegance with exceptional flavors. If you’re looking for a change of pace, you might want to check out the Eight Slices Italian Kitchen Menu for a completely different culinary experience, but let’s dive into what makes Toko so special.
What is Toko Restaurant?
Toko is a renowned Japanese dining establishment located in the heart of Sydney, offering a contemporary take on traditional Japanese cuisine. Known for its innovative approach, Toko blends fresh Australian ingredients with authentic Japanese cooking techniques. With a sophisticated ambiance and a menu featuring dishes like smoked miso king salmon, A5 Wagyu, and scampi nigiri with foie gras, the restaurant delivers a unique dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying the Omakase experience or savoring a meal at the sushi bar, Toko provides a memorable atmosphere where exceptional food meets elegant design.
The History and Location of Toko Restaurant
Located in the heart of Sydney’s bustling Central Business District, Toko can be found at 275 George Street (Lower Ground), Sydney, NSW 2000. The restaurant moved to this prime location in 2022 after spending 16 successful years in Surry Hills. Its strategic positioning, just next to Wynyard Station, makes it easily accessible for anyone exploring Sydney.
Whether you’re visiting the nearby Circular Quay or strolling around Martin Place, Toko is ideally situated for a fine dining experience after a day of sightseeing or business. For those using public transportation, the restaurant is well-served by Wynyard and Bridge Street light rail stops, making it simple to get there from anywhere in the city.
The Menu: A Fusion of Traditional and Contemporary
The menu at Toko Restaurant is a testament to its commitment to providing both traditional and modern flavors. The chefs here blend Australia’s fresh local produce with the best ingredients imported from Japan to create a truly exceptional experience. From the first bite to the last, you’ll notice the balance of delicate flavors and rich textures that are characteristic of Japanese cuisine.
Some of the standout dishes at Toko include smoked miso king salmon, Moreton Bay bug tempura, and scampi nigiri with foie gras. If you’re looking for something more exclusive, the Omakase experience at Toko is a must-try. Available on Wednesday evenings, the Omakase menu offers an 18-course tasting journey curated by the chefs. It’s a limited experience, with only 12 seats available each night, making it an ideal option for a special occasion or intimate dinner.
Kingfish Sashimi New Style
Delicate slices of kingfish are drizzled with truffle ponzu, complemented by pickled daikon and chives, offering a harmonious blend of flavors.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kingfish Sashimi New Style | Delicate slices of kingfish with truffle ponzu, pickled daikon, and chives, creating a flavorful and refreshing bite. | $24 |
Beef Tataki
Lightly seared beef is paired with pickled onions, mizuna, and crispy garlic chips, delivering a delightful contrast of textures.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Tataki | Lightly seared beef, pickled onions, and crispy garlic chips offer a delightful contrast of textures and rich flavor. | $26 |
Scampi Nigiri
Succulent scampi topped with foie gras, truffle, and soy jelly creates a rich and indulgent bite.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Scampi Nigiri | Succulent scampi topped with foie gras and truffle soy jelly for a rich indulgent bite and elegant presentation. | $22 |
Wagyu Nigiri
Seared wagyu beef is garnished with eschallots and chives, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Wagyu Nigiri | Seared wagyu beef with eschallots and chives for a melt-in-your-mouth experience and a savory finish. | $30 |
Unagi Nigiri
Grilled eel is enhanced with torched foie gras and umeboshi, offering a smoky and savory combination.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unagi Nigiri | Grilled eel, torched foie gras, and umeboshi for a smoky and savory flavor with a rich and delicate texture. | $25 |
Sashimi Omakase
A daily selection of seasonal raw fish, showcasing the freshest catches available.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sashimi Omakase | A daily selection of seasonal raw fish showcasing the freshest catches available with unique, delicate flavors. | $80 |
Grilled Scallops
Tender scallops are served with pickled apple and jalapeño, balancing sweetness and heat.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled Scallops | Tender scallops with pickled apple and jalapeño, balancing sweetness and heat with a burst of flavor. | $28 |
Grilled King Prawns
Juicy prawns are complemented by kimchi butter and shiso, adding depth and spice.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Grilled King Prawns | Juicy prawns with kimchi butter and shiso, offering depth and spice. | $32 |
Smoked King Salmon
Rich salmon is paired with miso and pickled ginger, offering a smoky and tangy profile.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked King Salmon | Smoked salmon with miso and pickled ginger for a tangy, smoky flavor. | $28 |
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
One of the key things that sets Toko apart from others is its ability to maintain balance in each dish. The menu is carefully crafted to showcase traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist. For example, the Wagyu nigiri combines seared wagyu beef with delicate eschallots, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This careful combination of ingredients allows Toko to offer something for everyone, from traditionalists to those looking for a more adventurous dining experience.
The robata grill also deserves special mention, offering grilled items like grilled king prawns and smoked king salmon. These dishes capture the smoky essence of the grill while retaining the freshness of the ingredients, giving diners an exciting yet familiar flavor profile. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or meat, Toko offers the perfect balance to satisfy your palate.
A Diverse Drink Menu
At Toko, the drink menu is just as diverse and carefully selected as the food. The restaurant boasts an impressive selection of sake, shochu, and Japanese whisky, making it the ideal place for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. The bar also offers a variety of creative cocktails, including the lychee blossom martini, which has quickly become a fan favorite.
Like Modo Mio Menu, If you’re more inclined toward wine, Toko also offers a carefully curated list of local and international wines that pair perfectly with the flavors of the menu. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and crisp or bold and full-bodied, Toko’s beverage selection is sure to complement the delicious dishes.
Opening Closing Timing
| Day | Lunch Hours | Dinner Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 9:45 PM |
| Saturday | Closed | 5:30 PM – 9:45 PM |
| Sunday | Closed | Closed |
| Monday | Closed | Closed |
Delivery Options
As of now, Toko does not offer delivery services. Guests are encouraged to dine in to experience the full range of offerings, including the exclusive Omakase experience.
Why You Should Visit Toko Restaurant
When it comes to fine dining in Sydney, Toko is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates high-quality Japanese cuisine. The combination of elegant design, skilled chefs, and carefully crafted dishes makes it an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the city, Toko’s innovative menu and welcoming atmosphere ensure that it’s the perfect place for any occasion.
Owners of Toko
The ownership of Toko in Sydney is attributed to Matt Yazbek, who has been instrumental in its establishment and growth. Under his leadership, Toko has evolved from its original location in Surry Hills to its current position in the heart of Sydney’s Central Business District. Yazbek’s vision has been pivotal in maintaining the restaurant’s reputation for contemporary Japanese dining and its commitment to excellence.
Customer Reviews
Here are some recent customer reviews of Toko in Sydney, highlighting the dining experience and service:
- “From the moment we arrived, the service was top-notch. The chefs at the sushi bar were engaging, and the food quality was exceptional. A true gem in the heart of Sydney.”
- “Celebrated a milestone birthday at Toko, and it exceeded all expectations. The private dining room offered an intimate setting, and the Omakase menu was a culinary delight. Worth every penny.”
- “I’ve dined at Toko multiple times, and it never disappoints. The consistency in food quality and service is remarkable. Always a pleasure to return.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, Toko stands as one of Sydney’s finest examples of modern Japanese cuisine. Its location, exceptional menu, and memorable dining experience make it a top choice for anyone in search of high-quality food and a sophisticated atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying the Omakase menu or savoring a more casual dish at the sushi bar, Toko promises a meal that will not disappoint. So, the next time you find yourself in Sydney, make sure to visit Toko Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.
