Fresh to death from its new makeover, QT Gold Coast’s signature Japanese izakaya has finally found the symbiosis between its food and its sexy decor.

Chandeliers fashioned from crab pots line the dark ceiling, dramatic red wallpaper brightens the walls and a candlelit bar area lures barflies, while a Japanese garden brings a sense of tranquility to the whole sparkling scene. It’s a space that feels funky and fresh, just like the menu.

A sharing approach is in play, combining traditional bites with modern twists. Take sashimi tacos – crisp, bubbly wontons curled from deep-frying, loaded with sushi rice, nori, shaved watermelon radish, yuzu-spiked avocado and either diced raw tuna or salmon.

There are the usual Japanese suspects, such as tempura, gyoza, sushi and sashimi, yakitori off the robata and ‘hots’ dishes including pork belly, starring four, bite-sized squares of pig, its fattiness balanced by a smoked vinegar and nashi pear.

Perhaps stealing the show from the food, is the drinks list courtesy of a range of wines that goes beyond the expected, plus a solid mix of sakes and shochu, and an indulgent array of Japanese whiskies, among other spirits. Ask one of the knowledgeable bartenders for advice on what to order instead of the friendly but under-trained waitstaff and prepare for a big night of food and booze with that signature QT blend of quirky-luxe.

Must-eat dish: Sashimi tacos
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