Kōl Izakhaya
Johannesburg, South Africa
Centered around a robata grill and fresh sushi counter, this vibey gilded restaurant in Johannesburg’s Hyde Park neighbourhood is all about bringing people together over great food. Don’t let the setting (on the third floor of a shopping mall) put you off, everything here has been carefully considered to ensure an atmospheric, elevated dining experience. The glam space – all moody marble, gold and brass, art installations and living greenery – makes an exciting setting for a culinary gathering more in-keeping with a modern European izakaya than a true incarnation of Toyko’s back streets. The place is all about making guests feel at home, all the while serving up an incredibly comprehensive menu of informal, full-flavour sharing plates (including a handy glossary of Japanese culinary terms). Start with masterfully prepared, authentic sushi – there are 13 nigiri to choose from alone – and sashimi showcasing true craftsmanship, before moving onto the main event. Fuelled by artisan binchō-tan coals for proper Japanese flavour, the robata fires up everything from chicken hearts and pork belly to ostrich fillet, wagyu and octopus each with their own seasonings and sides. The menu extends to bites, donburis, soups and mains like black cod with saikyo miso and apricot tsukemono. So rest assured, even the pickiest of eaters will find joy here.
Key Information
- Average price per person $38
- Lunch and dinner: Mon – Sun
- +27 10 900 2415
- Visit Kōl Izakhaya's Website
Location
Hyde Park Corner Shopping Centre, Jan Smuts and 6th Rd, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, 2196
