Why you goOne of the more exciting recent trends to sweep through Australian bars and restaurants has been a deepening interest in Japanese drinking and dining culture. Take Nomidokoro Indigo as an example. Not all that long ago, a minuscule inner-city joint specialising in sake and homestyle small plates seldom seen outside the island nation’s taverns known as izakaya might not have popped. Today, it’s almost impossible to get in. Some of that may be due to there being only 12 seats around the honey-coloured hardwood counter. Mostly, though, it’s because people are hungrier and thirstier than ever for inspired, immersive experiences that offer a taste of something different and a glimpse into another world – and they’ll get one here.
Why you stayThis is as close as you’ll get in Sydney to somewhere you’d stumble upon in a Kyoto alleyway. That much is clear from the façade alone with its half-open slatted timber door, minimalist signage and hallmark noren curtain. Cross the threshold, and you’ll be met with a shouty chorus of the Japanese “Irasshaimase!” welcome from the clued-in service team and a warm hand towel upon sitting down. It’s obvious co-owners Chris Wu, Tin Jung Shea and Mitomo Somehara are well-versed in the source material, and that they’ve made every effort to stay true to it, right down to the custom ceramics, which are a pleasure to hold in your hand. They’ve kept the prices at a very reasonable level, too, so you can have a proper crack at things without breaking the bank. It may be small in size, but it’s big on charm and personality.
