Izy.Aki Is Taking Omakase to a Relaxed New Level on Oxford Street, Complete with Grilled Meats and Luxuriously Served Eggs
Oxford Street and omakase — it's a niche that's been filled by the minds that brought you Atelier and O Bar and Dining.
Omakase can be associated with out-of-reach luxury, conjuring up images of hard-to-find venues with dark interiors and pricey slices of top-shelf sashimi.
Like any great culinary offering, omakase doesn't have to be a stiff, expensive affair — there are a few different ways to do it. One of the more relaxed and approachable takes is the Kappo Yakiniku Omakase experience at Paddington's Izy.Aki.
Quick definition: kappo is a culinary experience defined by an intimate space and chef-diner interaction, while omakase is a dining experience where the menu is left up to the chef. The final result? Kappo omakase is a relaxed, informal take on your typical omakase experience, packed full of honest interactions with the chef as they take you through your meal.
Izy.Aki opened in late 2024 and is a breath of fresh air for Sydney's omakase scene. Having taken over the Oxford Street space of Saint Peter, chef Darren Templeman (Atelier, O Bar and Dining) crafts a seasonal approach to a six or ten-course set menu for all diners. Just inform him of your dietary preferences when you arrive, and you're off to the races.
While this is still omakase, some in-house specialties may be included in your meal if your interests align. Chief among the specialties is The Egg: a hen egg filled with white onion puree, foie gras, smoked eel and a topping of trout roe. But this is no seafood-led omakase — instead, you'll find a wide range of grilled offerings, including yakiniku-style meats and 9+ Australian wagyu.
No matter the meal, you'll be enjoying it up close with Head Chef Bonnie Yu and bartender Aurelian Jeffredo. Pull up a seat along the 18-seat counter for an intimate experience that Templeman describes as "a journey of surprises". He adds, "It's not just about the food; it's about the experience. I want guests to feel like they're part of the team, not just sitting and watching."
Find Izy.Aki at 362 Oxford Street, Paddington, open from 5–10pm from Tuesday through Saturday. Visit the website for more information or to make a booking.
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