Otoko - Austin

The standout surprises were some of the non-sushi dishes, such as the escargot and the incredible mushroom tempura (wow!). The shirumono was also a highlight, e... read more The standout surprises were some of the non-sushi dishes, such as the escargot and the incredible mushroom tempura (wow!). The shirumono was also a highlight, especially when paired with the mussel. Of course, the sushi remains the main attraction, and this place sets a new benchmark for nigiri. My favorites were the kanpachi, aji, and madai, but honestly, no bite disappointed. The sake pairings added a fantastic dimension to the experience, and I appreciated the background information provided for each selection. It was truly a pleasure to witness the artistry and passion of our chefs as they prepared our meal, and I hope they know how honored I felt to experience the fruits of their labor.

The staff seems to believe they are serving a meal that will leave a lasting impression, making all other meals pale in comparison. Instead, their pretentious a... read more The staff seems to believe they are serving a meal that will leave a lasting impression, making all other meals pale in comparison. Instead, their pretentious attitude only made things worse. The two sushi chefs spent most of their time lecturing us on various topics, while they struggled to prepare sushi rice that meets even basic culinary standards. It’s frankly embarrassing that they are so unaware of their own deficiencies. If I could give the sushi omakase zero stars, I would. Save your money and choose something else.

We came here for my partner’s birthday as a recommendation from a friend, so going into this experience we had a fairly high expectation given it’s price point... read more We came here for my partner’s birthday as a recommendation from a friend, so going into this experience we had a fairly high expectation given it’s price point and reputation.The quality of fish and presentation’s attention to detail was above par, however there several factors that contribute to this overall 3 star review.We went to Toshokan a couple months ago, where there was the head chef present and every dish was prepared in front of everyone. The music at this place was slight random and eclectic, didn’t go with the vibe of the restaurant was a bit obnoxious. The servers weren’t up to par considering how much we are paying for this experience. A bit unprofessional and too talkative. We recommend Toshokan instead for a more special and high-end experience. This felt like going to a mediocre sushi restaurant.

I have been wanting to visit Otoko for a couple years; but, this time the occasion and time worked out for a Tuesday dinner.I received a call ahead of time to a... read more I have been wanting to visit Otoko for a couple years; but, this time the occasion and time worked out for a Tuesday dinner.I received a call ahead of time to ask about any dietary restrictions. I definitely appreciated the call. Dining at Otoko is more than eating good quality food, drinking good cocktails. It is an art show. We started with having some cocktails at the bar and moved to dining room. It was only 6 people and we were greeted by a saki sommelier and his assistant server. The chefs were very precise, friendly; but professional. The cadence os service was immaculate and at the end of the night head chef came and completed the desert.I will definitely go back.

Otoko was a fantastic experience and offered some of the best sushi in Austin. It’s still close between (sushi by scratch, uchi and now otoko). We came on a wee... read more Otoko was a fantastic experience and offered some of the best sushi in Austin. It’s still close between (sushi by scratch, uchi and now otoko). We came on a weekend and did get some dishes we didn’t care for (I’m looking at you egg dish). As a whole though, it was phenomenal. I did read on Wednesdays it was sushi-only and wish that happened more days of the week.