Japanese with a Twist at Monkey Magic

Monkey Magic isn’t just the theme song of a fantastic children’s TV show from the 1980s; it’s also the latest Japanese restaurant to hit Surry Hills.

Chef Hidetoshi Tsuboi combines the traditional flavours of the East with contemporary Western techniques. While the cuisine is ultimately Japanese, his experience working at Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and other South-East Asian restaurants shines through.
“My familiarity with these diverse cooking-styles allows me to really fuse ingredients, techniques and presentation from different cuisines,” Chef Hidetoshi explained.

Chef Hidetoshi loves fresh, local produce, and he serves up some real treats. Right now we get to enjoy seasonal Japanese veggies like shiso leaves and gobo, sourced directly from a farmer in Byron Bay.

The dishes are meant to be shared, and offer something for carnivores and vegetarians alike. The Monkey Magic Sushi Platter is a real experience, with each nigiri dressed with a complementary dipping sauce. I also love the sound of the crab leaves: premium crab meat bedded on a betel leave with just a hint of spice. The monkey that gives the restaurant its name would be impressed with the banana and white chocolate shiso harumaki dessert. If you’re feeling hungry, the $45 five-course set menu is a fantastic option.

The Eastern influence is also felt in the drinks list, which includes traditional Asian cocktails and some Western favourites. There’s also a diverse selection of local and European wines, and of course some sake for that authentic Japanese experience.

Trading hours: 6 pm to 10 pm Mondays to Saturdays
Location: Monkey Magic
Address: 3 & 4, 410 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Public transport: Catch the #393 bus from Central Station, or the #301 or #303 from Circular Quay to Crown Street
Parking: Limited street parking available
Cost: Appetisers from $4, large dishes from $17
Website: http://www.monkeymagic.com.au/

Image used with permission from Wasamedia