Toko now a trio

What’s Japanese, contains one-third the calories of vodka and has its very own Sydney bar? Shochu. The freshest addition to the Crown Street, Surry Hills scene, tokonoma shochu bar + lounge is set to turn summer drinkers on to Japan’s other native tipple. Distinctive from sake because it’s distilled – from barley, buckwheat, sweet potato and sugar – shochu is a wonder in cocktails, which will have those familiar with the three Toko establishments in the eastern suburbs licking their lips. Along with agedashi tofu to turn vegan for, innovative cocktails are a house specialty. That’s right, tokonoma is the baby in the chain and located alongside Toko restaurant. This new kid on the block follows Toko’s recipe for success right down to the handsome fit out, reuniting architect Matt Darwon and artist Reni Kung. Obviously designed to capitalise on Toko’s success, tokonoma holds up to 250 patrons and has various spaces for private functions.

www.toko.com.au

by Alicia Pyke