LOCATIONTowards the water’s edge of Pyrmont, five minutes’ drive from the CBD.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAHoused in a stereotypically Australian house, complete with corrugated iron roof, deck and picket fence, Furusato Japanese Restaurant is the last thing you would expect to find in the leafy suburb of Pyrmont. The juxtaposition of cultures is quite fitting and the result is, simply put, cute as a button. A single painted red lantern and a hanging wooden sign reveal a few clues as to what’s inside, but as soon as you slip through the doors it all becomes obvious. This two-levelled dining room is adorned with gorgeous Japanese knick-knacks, from the calligraphy on the walls to the little bowl and chopstick table settings. Towards the back is a bamboo-skirted courtyard which is perfect for the warmer months, however inside has a lot more character.
The fare, too, exudes distinctively authentic traits and from entrees to main meals, each dish is beautifully presented and wonderfully colourful. Nibble on some edamame soy beans as you order some crunchy age-gyoza and a light seaweed salad to begin with. Teriyaki, katsu and tempura dishes are all moreishly good and a platter of fresh sashimi tickles the tastebuds and refreshes the palate. The sukiyaki is an extra-special dish for two or more people where a shallow steamboat is ferried to the table and heaped with vegetables, meat and seafood. There are also a great range of banquet menus which ensure everyone at the table is happy. All meals come with complimentary side dishes, miso soup and chef Jack’s special homemade sauce – a taste sensation you’ll be coming back for.
Annabel Wise