Toko Restaurant opens in Vida Downtown Dubai

Sydney’s Toko Restaurant & Lounge has opened its first restaurant outside of Australia in Dubai.

Located at the Vida Downtown Hotel, the restaurant includes a dining room, lounge and bar, an expansive terrace, as well as a private dining room.

Designed by Australian architect Matthew Darwon, The design of Toko uses a minimalist neutral palette featuring natural timbers and streamlined joinery.

Signature dishes include Tenaga Ebi No Nigiri (scampi fois gras and truffle), Sake No Aburi Yaki (smoked salmon robatta) and Blackmore Wagyu Beef from Australia.

Toko Group executive chef Benjamin Orpwood said: “I believe in a kitchen where creative flair is embraced. We are authentic but not traditional and this shines through in our presentation and techniques. In Japan the word Omakase means 'of the moment', and this is how we have designed our menu to behave. However, it is not all about the food, it is about the entire experience and this ‘experience’ is constantly evolving.”

Toko, which opened in Sydney’s Surry Hills area six years ago has become an institution in the city, popular for its intimate atmosphere and cocktail menu.

The Dubai restaurant is a collaboration between Bulldozer Group and Emaar Hospitality.