LOCATION
Top Level, Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Sitting so close to Sydney Harbour that it feels a little like you’re being stalked by the Sydney Opera House (in a flattering way), Yuki’s at the Quay offers a sensational combination of scenery, hospitality and dynamic Japanese cuisine. The light, breezy and refined decor of the restaurant, with the addition of full-length mirrored walls, not only ensures that you can see each white curve of your landmark companion – and the panoramic harbour – but also gives the long, narrow restaurant an airy feel. An alfresco terrace area also allows diners to get even closer to the beguiling curve of Circular Quay.
The cuisine is no less impressive. Chef Kazushige (Hiro) Kato, who boasts an impressive career which has seen him travel and develop his understanding of Japanese and European gastronomy, brings a unique fusion of cultures to the menu. As a result every dish at Yuki’s, while quintessentially Japanese in flavour, is unmistakably European in presentation. Rare frilled yellow-fin tuna sits beautifully atop king mushrooms and asparagus, with a drizzle of avocado wasabi aioli adding a chic French effect. Equally European inspired is the grilled scallops and prawn mousse with ginger sauce. Naturally, as in most self-respecting Japanese restaurants, there is also a wide selection of sushi and sashimi (delivered fresh from the fish markets where Yuki’s has its own stand). At the completion of the meal anyone with room for dessert will not be disappointed. Distinctly French in influence, Yuki’s sweet selection offers delicious treats such as petite creme brulee and apple compote with virnouge sorbet. The experience is stitched together by the ever-obliging service and what have to be Sydney’s most reasonable waterside-dining prices.
Agnes Gajewska, June 2009
DETAILS
The food, the view and the sleek modern interior make YUKIS a perfect place for wowing a business associate or showing off to an overseas guest. The Japanese are known for their professionalism and for their boundless attention to detail and Yuki's is an excellent example of both. Crisp white tablecloths, sparkling cutlery and elaborately folded napkins are the first things you'll notice (once you manage to tear your attention away from the view).Then it's the speedy service, which is so efficient that you barely notice it's there. The staff here are obliging and professional and each possess a refined knowledge of everything on the menu.