15 Of The Best Omakase Dining
June 12, 2025
Located on Oxford Street in Paddington, Izy.aki offers a refined take on Japanese kappo-style yakiniku omakase. Despite its name suggesting a casual izakaya, the 20-seat restaurant delivers a sophisticated dining experience with either a 6-course ($125) or 10-course ($210) menu.
The culinary team comprises Chef Darren Templeman, Head Chef Daseul (Bonnie) Yu, and mixologist Aurelien Jeffredo. Darren initiates the meal with several courses, Bonnie expertly handles the grill, and Aurelien crafts cocktails and introduces guests to the menu.
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The 10-course journey includes highlights such as:
Potato and Octopus Beignet: Crispy exterior with a roesti-like interior, topped with freshly grated Manjimup truffle and a dab of spicy mayo.
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Sashimi Abrolhos Scallop: Sliced scallop topped with pickled kimchi cauliflower, white soy, Jeju island mandarin vinegar, Avruga caviar, and creamy cauliflower at the base.
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Bluefin Tuna: South Australian bluefin tuna featuring both akami and toro cuts, dressed with sesame and smoked soy, accompanied by persimmon, watermelon radish salad, and bottarga.
Murray Cod Fillet: Dry-aged for 5 days and grilled, served with Misty Valley mushrooms and a buttery kimchi juice sauce.
Burrawong Duck Noodle Soup: A rich broth made from duck carcass, featuring torched shiitake, duck thigh sausage,
Wagyu Sirloin Pureblood: Full-blood wagyu sirloin steak MB9+ from Queensland’s western plains, accompanied by a variety of sauces including umeboshi, yuzukosho wasabi, fresh Tasmanian wasabi, quince ssamjang, pickled silverbeet stem, and fermented white kimchi.
Hokkaido Cheesecake Soufflé: A light dessert featuring matcha cheesecake soufflé with caramelised yuzu at the bottom and coconut ice cream.
The beverage program includes unique cocktails like the Wasave (Olmeca Altos Plata, fresh wasabi, agave nectar, pressed lime) and the Shiroi Hana (Haku vodka, elderflower liqueur, vanilla, pressed lime, aqua faba), as well as a selection of sakes served in zodiac-themed cups.
Izy.aki is a must-visit for those seeking an intimate and innovative Japanese dining experience in Sydney.
