Easily missable behind a fabric-covered sliding glass door along the Gold Coast Hwy’s busy strip of eateries at Burleigh is this vibrant, funky Japanese.

While the row of tatami seating running almost the length of the narrow, dimly lit room may seem like the cool spot to book, it’s best left to the uber bendy, yoga types. A stool against the yakitori bar at the front or cozy whisky bar down the back is far more comfortable.

Sticking to Japanese tradition, all cuts of the chicken are given a grilling here, including the skin, gizzards, wings and, pick of the bunch, the oyster — exploding with juices from behind its crisp, fatty skin. But before tackling the skewers, diners will want to share the restaurant’s addictive version of guacamole and corn chips — spicy edamame dip with crispy wontons — as well as beautifully fresh, thick slices of ocean trout cured in a zingy ponzu dressing from the raw section of the menu.

There are also bigger plates, such as a wagyu sirloin or cubes of finely battered and fried agedashi tofu, soups and rice.

The drinks list is an all-encompassing affair transcending wine, sake, Japanese beer, umeshu, shochu, whisky and more, or simply ask one of the benevolent bar staff to create you a bespoke cocktail if the Asian-inspired, creative offerings don’t appeal.

For an affordable, fun feed with friends, Iku ticks the box.

Exceptional dish (or dishes): ocean trout, oyster skewers and edamame dip