In The Rocks’ Argyle Precinct, Sake Restaurant and Bar serves elegant takes on Japanese cuisine, as part of the group behind top Sydney restaurants Rockpool and Spice Temple.

The menu balances washoku (traditional cuisine) with modern elements. You might start with the nori crisps piled high with jewel-like cubes of tuna and kingfish marinated in white soy and mirin and served with a light sesame dressing. Then it might be Cape Grim short rib bo ssam, a Korean dish brought into Japanese territory with red miso, chilli and umami. Or Glacier 51 Toothfish, drenched in miso butter and wrapped in a banana leaf.

This being one of the best places in Sydney to drink sake, there are more than 40 varieties to choose from here, and the attentive staff are never far away to help guide your selection. You’ll also find plenty of umeshu, and seafood-friendly wines to match each dish.

Saké offers a range of dining options, from “chef’s selection” banquets to cocktails and sushi at the bar. There’s also a full a la carte menu at a traditional sunken table.