Kujin

Situated moments away from King Cross, in the centre of Elizabeth Bay, Kujin is a sophisticated Japanese Izakaya-style teppanyaki and noodle bar. Traditionally, an Izakaya is an informal drinking house with tapas-like sharing dishes. On the surface, Kujin appears dark, almost as though it is hidden. But step inside and be greeted by a bustling atmosphere. With mellow wood tones, black painted walls and subdued lighting from hanging lanterns, diners can sit around the open teppanyaki hotplate grill watching the chefs in action or huddle with groups of friends around the long communal tables.

With an extensive menu comprising a vast range of dishes including handmade noodles to assorted tempura, Kujin’s creativity shines with the lightly seared Wagyu beef tataki with citrus ponzu sauce and subtle hint of truffle oil. The local favourite, pork gyoza – bursting with succulent juices – is highly recommended. From the hotplate grill, try the kushiyaki salmon skewers sprinkled with green tea salt, thinly sliced whole calamari marinated in ginger and soy or eggplant cubes topped with miso and melted cheese. Traditional dishes include the okonomiyaki – savoury cabbage pancakes served with a range of fillings including Wagyu beef, with Worcestershire-like sauce and Japanese mayonnaise.