Surry Hills' Modern Japanese Izakaya
Toko on Crown Street is Surry Hills' modern Japanese izakaya — robata grill at the centre, a careful seasonal small-plate programme, and the kind of regulars-built room Crown Street has always done well.
The cooking is contemporary izakaya at restaurant standards: robata-grilled vegetables and proteins, considered seasonal small plates, and the kind of careful Japanese sourcing the format demands.
What to Order
Robata-grilled black cod — the dish the room is built around. Seasonal small plates; sashimi flights from the cold kitchen. The cocktail programme is unusually serious for an izakaya format; the sake list rewards a guided pairing.
The Bar
The dining room is comfortable and busy. The bar handles walk-ins; the dining room takes reservations.
Best Occasion: First Date
Toko is a quiet Surry Hills first-date win. The format provides shareable plates; the wine and cocktail programme provides natural conversation; the price point allows a return visit.