Hukuya - Eastwood

Came here with high expectations as a Japanese friend recommended this place We ordered a little of everything Sushi: a little better than other places but nothing stood out The eel didn't have much taste The fish egg sushi was very salty Sashimi was nice but standard stuff Tempura and Tofu were standard stuff The place is small so you better book ahead Prices are what I expected Food came out a little faster than expected With Al Leon

Is there a decent sushi bar/restaurant in Sydney? The answer is no. (That includes Sake, Sokyo and Sushi E) Hukuya is an unassuming, friendly and casual restaurant adjacent to the Eastwood station which offers an assortment of typical sushi and sashimi boats. Most of their combos are unimaginative and common but considerably expensive (considering the location). Sydneyguyrojoe, Al and I made our way into the Korean-owned restaurant yesterday and ordered several items from their menu including vegetable salad, hukuya special sashimi/sushi and adegashi tofu. First, the tofu was a cheap simple beancurd from a typical Asian supermarket and not the smooth, silky and fragrant Japanese tofu. Second, the sashimi and sushi were borderline average - the tuna was not stale but not a fresh catch. Like 100+ other Japanese restaurants in Sydney, Hukuya did not use the high-quality Japonica rice which exudes a natural fragrance and consists of short round translucent grains that has a natural sticky texture when it is cooked. This is a pity because even street hawkers in Singapore and corner supermarket outlets in Hong Kong prepare their sushi using high quality grains but three times cheaper. Sydneysiders like us are shortchanged! Third, the prawn tempura was not the usual fare either. The thick, crunchy batter overpowered the fresh, succulent taste of the prawns whereas the dipping sauce lacked the flavour of garlic, ginger and rice wine vinegar. Once again, the only saving grace is good company and endless gossips!! I would be immensely grateful if anyone could share a decent Japanese restaurant in Sydney ????

Is there a decent sushi bar/restaurant in Sydney? The answer is no. (That includes Sake, Sokyo and Sushi E) Hukuya is an unassuming, friendly and casual restaurant adjacent to the Eastwood station which offers an assortment of typical sushi and sashimi boats. Most of their combos are unimaginative and common but considerably expensive (considering the location). Sydneyguyrojoe, Al and I made our way into the Korean-owned restaurant yesterday and ordered several items from their menu including vegetable salad, hukuya special sashimi/sushi and adegashi tofu. First, the tofu was a cheap simple beancurd from a typical Asian supermarket and not the smooth, silky and fragrant Japanese tofu. Second, the sashimi and sushi were borderline average - the tuna was not stale but not a fresh catch. Like 100+ other Japanese restaurants in Sydney, Hukuya did not use the high-quality Japonica rice which exudes a natural fragrance and consists of short round translucent grains... read more

First impressions did not bode well. A reservation was made by Leon K for the 3 of us. When we arrived, they tried to squeeze us into a table for 2, which we flatly refused. After some deliberation amongst the floor staff, we were shown to another table with one caveat; be gone in 60 min ????. We got the hukuya set, sushi combo, rolls, veg salad, agedashi tofu n mixed tempura. Meat size was little bigger n thicker than the norm. Food was average but reasonably fresh and good value for your hard earned. The tofu was the supermarket variety ????. Everything came out in no particular order with the tofu being last on the table. I'd return if i am in the area but wont travel for it.

So here's a fact to start: I have never ever been disappointed by Hukuya. Without fail I know whenever I step in I will be getting great and friendly service and fantastic food. The photos below reflect the numerous times I have visited and where do I even start... the soft shell crab is amazing and cannot be missed, and their sushi boat is best for anyone looking to set off the two great chefs behind the counter doing what they do best. But hey, you should be already planning your trip there to find your favourite for yourself. It does get busy during the dinner rush so I like calling and booking ahead! Don't delay though because your new favourite sushi joint may just be a short trip to Hukuya away!