Hihou

Located on the corner of Spring Street and Flinders Lane, Hihou (meaning secret treasure) is a Japanese-influenced bar above Simon Denton’s Kappo (formerly Nama Nama, and Verge before that).

With a cinematic but functional and minimalist layout, Hihou manages to achieve drama and subtlety in equal parts. Simple wooden blocks and concrete abound, which draws the eye to the bar’s centrepiece; ia long black marble group table that's surrounded by stools and lit with tea lights wrapped in coloured paper. The exposed concrete walls give onto the candle-lit, low stone tables, where guests are encouraged to de-shoe and recline on the giant black ottoman that follows the contour of the room.

Denton (who’s also behind Izakaya Den) is clearly enamoured by Japan and it's especially apparent in the well constructed menu. The extensive selection of drinks includes hot shochu (a potato-based Japanese liquor), sake, plum wine, seasonal fruit surprise cocktails, as well as Japanese beers and whiskey.

The food complements the drinks list; with moreish snacks like the cream cheese and seaweed-filled spring rolls, chilli miso edamame, fried potato with tamari caramel, king fish ceviche or trout sashimi.

With a high-level of service and attention to detail, it's comfortable yet slick decor and great menu, Hihou is the right place to warm any winter night.