For those who have enjoyed good times in Tokyo’s underground izakayas (a place to drink and eat), you’ll find a polished, more refined iteration here at Cho Cho San – but it still has all the energy and atmosphere of its inspirations.

Cho Cho San is the cool, contemporary restaurant-meets-bar by the clever crew that gave us Longrain and The Apollo. With sophisticated shades of grey and blonde timbers, the sleek space is much lighter and brighter than the Tokyo dive bars, but this Australian spin is spot on for a great night out. Sit on high chairs at the long concrete communal table, or at banquettes along the opposite wall and start with a strong cocktail, sake flight, or one of the array of Japanese beers on offer.

The menu gives stellar Australian produce a Japanese makeover and you’ll want to order a multitude of dishes to share. Agedashi tofu sees plump tofu partnering braised mushrooms enlivened by yuzu. Sesame oil and crisp cucumber work well with the creamy mouthfeel of raw kingfish, while split king prawns are coated in a rich kombu butter. For those who love the gooey joy of okra, it’s offered tempura-style, while a light rendition of Japanese curry lets a just pink pork tonkatsu speak for itself. And a night at Cho Cho San wouldn’t be complete without their signature green tea soft serve, before another drink or two.