Toko

Toko as their website puts it is "a multiple award winning restaurant, Toko Sydney has revolutionized Japanese dining in Australia over the last 7 years, with a concept that offers clientele modern ‘izakaya’ style dining in an impeccably designed setting."

Toko Dubai, a new and welcome addition to what seemed like an overcrowded market. Therefore to stand out it has be to special and we were left with no doubt that this Downtown Japanese restaurant hits the spot on so many points.

Firstly food, 'izakaya' as our lovely Spanish waitress explained means to share, this translated into a Japanese type of tapas affair. Kicking off with spicy edamame we then opted for the salmon tartare which came accompanied with sweet potato crisps adding another layer of texture. The sashimi selection changes on a daily basis and we were slightly disappointed our favourite mackerel was not on offer on our visit however, the serving of king fish, snapper and salmon more than made up for it as they each melted in our mouths.

Stepping out into the unknown we tried the soft-shelled crab with a creamy and fragrant mayonnaise to dip into, my dining partner fell in love with it immediately, I on the other hand felt whilst the texture and consistency were exquisite it did feel slightly over salty.

We cleansed our palette with a Shoga Biru, consisting of lime, vanilla sugar and ginger beer one of the many mocktails on offer. If you prefer drinks of the alcoholic variety we understand that Toko has the largest sake menu in Dubai.

As the dishes were served we welcomed the grilled avocado albeit a slightly tricky affair with chopsticks and the wonderful black cod, which is one of the best we have tasted.

We rounded off dinner with the chocolate fondant with milk ice cream and left the restaurant in a happy daze.

The service was subtle and friendly as a sharply dressed hostess guided us to our table, there was a slight dip near the end of our meal as it appeared the waiting staff were preparing for the next sitting. A minor inconvenience that was actually meant we could enjoy more of the great music that played in the background. The music made the atmosphere relaxed and welcoming as it dipped in and out of chilled beats and deep house.

Fantastic food, great music and stylish setting. A far superior choice to Sake No Hana or Zuma.

We paid AED 770 [USD $ 210] for our meal which did not include any alcoholic drinks.

Location: Vida Hotel, Downtown Dubai.

Website: http://www.toko-dubai.com