Toki is a feast for the eye as well as the palate, from the moment you walk up the stair and sink into your chair until the moment you leave, sated and happy.
Since opening its doors in early February, Toki has changed the way we see Japanese dining in our region.
From the moment you slide your way up the stairs at the newly developed site at 4-6 Gilbert Street and into the up-scale restaurant, you’re left breathless by the hushed, calming and elegant atmosphere. Staying true to Japanese philosophy: uncomplicated, warm, with wood tables, concrete floors, timber panelling reminiscent of traditional tea houses, leather chairs, bronze flourishes, and a chic six-seat bar, Toki undeniably delivers a destination for those with a bit of a penchant for the finer things in life, with a beautiful interior with the food to match.
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Delivering a modern approach to the rich traditions of Japanese cooking, Toki’s dishes evolve with the seasons and savour the peak flavour of ingredients. With Japanese head chef Motoki Saito at the helm, you’ll be in awe of the beautifully executed Japanese dishes brought to your table, reminiscent of vibrant and colours works of art.
Saito’s experience in contemporary Japanese cuisine is evident, serving an elegant mix of classic Japanese dishes, ranging from King Fish Sashimi and Soba Salad to Teriyaki chicken, Dashi Tofu Humberg and signature sushi rolls.
If you’re after traditional, authentic and high-quality Japanese cuisine without having to board a plane, we recommend selecting one of the courses available. Gifting diners two options, the courses feature Toki’s most popular dishes, from Salmon Confit, and sushi and sashimi and Japanese premium Wagyu (imported and flown in from Japan), to pork stew, Chawan Mushi and homemade Dark Green tea ice cream, all made lovingly with incredible attention to detail. Simply sit back and allow your tastebuds to be whisked away to the archipelago with dishes arriving one after the other.
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There’s also the a la cart menu which is great for a more low-key yet high-quality night out. Highlights include Edamame, signature tartar salmon, Teriyaki chicken, Mentaiko Udon and Dashimaki Tamago, a Japanese rolled omelette. There’s also the camembert fry (deep-fried Japanese panko-crumbed camembert cheese), cold gyoza, Karaage chicken, and assorted tempura. And much to our delight, there’s even a Wafu Crème Brulee sitting alongside the aforementioned dark green tea ice cream. Yes, we ordered both.
With every perfect, fine-dining restaurant, comes a perfect selection of beverages to not only compliment but elevate your dining experience. Here there is an extensive list of artisanal sake and shochu, signature Japanese-inspired cocktails and mocktails, local award-winning wine and a full bar with Japanese beer on tap, bottled beer, and a selection of local and international spirits. The Japanese whisky is the hero though, with the likes of Toki, Yamazaki, Hakushu and Mars Iwai on offer. You’ll also find Japanese vodka and gin. There’s also a range of non-alcoholic options with your usual suspects as well as iced green tea, and Sencha, premium Japanese green tea. With drink offerings like that, you can expect a large experience in the best possible way.
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If you’re just heading on through for lunch but are craving flavours that will take you on a journey, Toki also offers a Kyoto style lunch box with seven choices of hot and cold dishes complete with miso soup and steamed rice.
Garnering rave reviews in merely a month of operating, Toki is earning an incredibly rich reputation for its ambient atmosphere, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and good quality food cooked and presented to perfection – and the reviews aren’t wrong. Coming from the team who brought us Shinya Ramen, an authentic and traditional ramen restaurant that’s built its own reputation for high-quality dishes, Toki ticks all the boxes of a world-class dining experience.
Soon to be recognised as one of the most remarkable dining experiences in the state for Japanese fare. And it’s right here in Torquay.
Located at Shop 14, Level 1 4-6 Gilbert Street, Torquay, Toki is open Wednesday through to Sunday, for both lunch and dinner.
Bookings can be made here.
