Toshokan is one of the better omakase in town. I have yet to snag a table at Tsuke but Toshokan is right up there with Craft and Otoko. It’s a cozy space and I might have spent too much time searching for all the Taylor Swift Easter eggs. They excelled in their service and hospitality—the 6 seater made it very intimate and we got to have great conversations with the team throughout the meal. It also ended with an impromptu karaoke session which was a fun way to end our time together.
The meal was fantastic with the soft shell crab, tuna courses, and wagyu being my favorite. The flavor accents were just right and not overbearing. They really let the fish be the main attraction which was appreciated.
The meal is pricey and on par with other omakase in town. The overall experience was great and we will return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Andrew
The single BEST restaurant and dining experience in Austin.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Cali
My husband and had the pleasure of dining at Toshokan last night, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! The omakase was exceptional, with each piece of sushi expertly crafted and presented. The flavors were bold, yet delicate, and the quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite.
But what really made the evening stand out was the atmosphere and service. The intimate setting, music, and decor created a warm and inviting ambiance, while the chef's enthusiasm and knowledge added a fascinating educational element to the meal.
The conversation with the chef and the other diners was lively and engaging, making the experience feel more like a dinner party with friends than a formal restaurant meal.
Overall, I highly recommend Toshokan to anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining experience. Five stars isn't enough - I'd give it ten stars if I could!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Flying Mammals
They give you a free caffeine drink to start, and asked if anyone wanted non-alcoholic option. We opted for it and they poured us a drink, then asked if we wanted another. At the end, the bill showed a charge for each drink, so we paid $26pp for "drinks" poured out of a green tea can when the others' were free.
Amateur display trying to small talk you the entire meal. Chef clearly looked awkward and distracted:
Torched items were not consistent...some pieces way more scorched than others.
Rice was too loosely packed on a couple pieces it fell apart on the plate and I had to shovel it onto my hand.
The spoonful of ice cream was melted by the time he was done chatting and then played guitar.
Food was excellent, but ambience the opposite, unprofessional, unrefined. Music did not match. Unfortunately, I wouldn't sit through it again.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 5
Service: 2
Nadia V
You are in for a treat! Chef Saine will surprise you with excellent ingredients presented in a unique and creative way. Each course was packed with flavors and just fabulous.
It’s hard to get a reservation, but they have only 6 seats, which makes it a very intimate and personal experience.
There is a free parking lot and also street parking.
Parking: Free parking lot at the back of the building.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Bone Marrow, Tarte Tatin, Scallops, Mackerel
Mandie Shalhoob
If you've never done an Omakase experience here, you definitely need to try it at least once in your life. Zach (sp?), Nadine, and Chef Saine were extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and we even got serenaded at the end. Every piece was sourced from all over the world, including New Zealand and Spain, and drinks carefully curated to match each piece. Even had a flight of nice Japanese whiskeys, and 3 off-menu curations at the end.
Madai, salmon (best I've had), hamachi, tuna and tuna belly...all the best.
Do your palate a favor and visit there!
Arthur Nen (Tuka)
Ingredients were top notch, service was nice, but the experience felt off the entire time we were there. It's hard to explain but when fine dining restaurants put together an amazing experience they do it in a way that makes it look effortless, and Toshokan felt like they were trying too hard. Experience aside, the food was good, but not amazing.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 3
Service: 4
Claudia Christensen
The food is always amazing! The chef is super personable and very talented! The staff are friendly and attentive. They create a 5 star experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Bone Marrow, Salmon Sashimi
Conway General
First of all, I haven’t eaten here, but I’m a person that believes the service is a reflection of the atmosphere. It is Memorial Day, I wouldn’t want to be working either but woman as a hostess is the most unfriendly and least welcoming person I’ve encountered in quite a while. She wasn’t helpful when asking about the restaurant, or about getting a reservation probably because they are booked up for 45 days which is alright but getting cocky as an early restaurant is not how I’d like to be approach things
I’ve been sitting on this review for a while. I’m definitely not one to tarnish any 5 star ratings!! My experience was mixed. In part by the fact that I’ve spent countless moments at midnight trying to get reservations with no luck. When I finally snagged my first res, I was shocked to be sitting next to a guy that had been multiple times (even in the past week). Most of the others also had the good fortune to be “frequent patrons”. There was one other person who said she’d been trying to grab a reservation for a while. TBH, really didn’t sit right with me.As we all know, these reviews are opinion based only. I can only give my honest assessment of my experience.The vibe seemed catered to a younger crowd for sure. I definitely felt out of place. The “F” word was used quite liberally by the staff. No big deal, just kind of off pudding when you’re paying so much. Again, I realize this may not be a popular opinion. Unfortunately we also got on the topic of church camp and “those types” which stung quite a bit since I have a strong faith base. Not really the fault of the staff but she was very much in agreement to the conversation. I am not suggesting that the chef participated in any of these convos because he didn’t.Yes, the food and drinks were absolutely delicious. I got the extra cocktail menu where we get a fun drink paired with some of the courses and also participated in the extra course which was way too fishy and slimy for me. All in all, my bill was slightly over $400. Since I just didn’t have the best experience, needless to say, it was too expensive for me.My biggest suggestion would be to not go solo.
Parking: Very difficult to find.
Ryan Gibson
Hands down the best dining experience I've ever had. GL getting a res, but it's worth the effort.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Patrick
Chef Saine provided an amazing experience! Food was fresh and had interesting stories around it.
Seating was intimate and the concept is to provide a very interactive experience between the staff as well as between guests.
A pre dinner cocktail or mocktail was provided for guests to get to know one another as well.
The scallop with a salsa verde was the star for me! Chef mentioned it was a pretty popular dish so likely to be on the menu.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Salmon Sashimi
Jenny Bennett
I’ve been sitting on this review for a while. I’m definitely not one to tarnish any 5 star ratings!! My experience was mixed. In part by the fact that I’ve spent countless moments at midnight trying to get reservations with no luck. When I finally snagged my first res, I was shocked to be sitting next to a guy that had been multiple times (even in the past week). Most of the others also had the good fortune to be “frequent patrons”. There was one other person who said she’d been trying to grab a reservation for a while. TBH, really didn’t sit right with me.As we all know, these reviews are opinion based only. I can only give my honest assessment of my experience.The vibe seemed catered to a younger crowd for sure. I definitely felt out of place. The “F” word was used quite liberally by the staff. No big deal, just kind of off pudding when you’re paying so much. Again, I realize this may not be a popular opinion. Unfortunately we also got on the topic of church camp and “those types” which stung quite a bit since I have a strong faith base. Not really the fault of the staff but she was very much in agreement to the conversation. I am not suggesting that the chef participated in any of these convos because he didn’t.Yes, the food and drinks were absolutely delicious. I got the extra cocktail menu where we get a fun drink paired with some of the courses and also participated in the extra course which was way too fishy and slimy for me. All in all, my bill was slightly over $400. Since I just didn’t have the best experience, needless to say, it was too expensive for me.My biggest suggestion would be to not go solo.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Patrick Pongwarin
Chef Saine provided an amazing experience! Food was fresh and had interesting stories around it.Seating was intimate and the concept is to provide a very interactive experience between the staff as well as between guests.A pre dinner cocktail or mocktail was provided for guests to get to know one another as well.The scallop with a salsa verde was the star for me! Chef mentioned it was a pretty popular dish so likely to be on the menu.
Toshokan is one of the better omakase in town. I have yet to snag a table at Tsuke but Toshokan is right up there with Craft and Otoko. It’s a cozy space and I might have spent too much time searching for all the Taylor Swift Easter eggs. They excelled in their service and hospitality—the 6 seater made it very intimate and we got to have great conversations with the team throughout the meal. It also ended with an impromptu karaoke session which was a fun way to end our time together.
The meal was fantastic with the soft shell crab, tuna courses, and wagyu being my favorite. The flavor accents were just right and not overbearing. They really let the fish be the main attraction which was appreciated.
The meal is pricey and on par with other omakase in town. The overall experience was great and we will return.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The single BEST restaurant and dining experience in Austin.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My husband and had the pleasure of dining at Toshokan last night, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! The omakase was exceptional, with each piece of sushi expertly crafted and presented. The flavors were bold, yet delicate, and the quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite.
But what really made the evening stand out was the atmosphere and service. The intimate setting, music, and decor created a warm and inviting ambiance, while the chef's enthusiasm and knowledge added a fascinating educational element to the meal.
The conversation with the chef and the other diners was lively and engaging, making the experience feel more like a dinner party with friends than a formal restaurant meal.
Overall, I highly recommend Toshokan to anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining experience. Five stars isn't enough - I'd give it ten stars if I could!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
They give you a free caffeine drink to start, and asked if anyone wanted non-alcoholic option. We opted for it and they poured us a drink, then asked if we wanted another.
At the end, the bill showed a charge for each drink, so we paid $26pp for "drinks" poured out of a green tea can when the others' were free.
Amateur display trying to small talk you the entire meal. Chef clearly looked awkward and distracted:
Torched items were not consistent...some pieces way more scorched than others.
Rice was too loosely packed on a couple pieces it fell apart on the plate and I had to shovel it onto my hand.
The spoonful of ice cream was melted by the time he was done chatting and then played guitar.
Food was excellent, but ambience the opposite, unprofessional, unrefined. Music did not match. Unfortunately, I wouldn't sit through it again.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 5
Service: 2
You are in for a treat! Chef Saine will surprise you with excellent ingredients presented in a unique and creative way. Each course was packed with flavors and just fabulous.
It’s hard to get a reservation, but they have only 6 seats, which makes it a very intimate and personal experience.
There is a free parking lot and also street parking.
Parking: Free parking lot at the back of the building.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Bone Marrow, Tarte Tatin, Scallops, Mackerel
If you've never done an Omakase experience here, you definitely need to try it at least once in your life. Zach (sp?), Nadine, and Chef Saine were extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and we even got serenaded at the end. Every piece was sourced from all over the world, including New Zealand and Spain, and drinks carefully curated to match each piece. Even had a flight of nice Japanese whiskeys, and 3 off-menu curations at the end.
Madai, salmon (best I've had), hamachi, tuna and tuna belly...all the best.
Do your palate a favor and visit there!
Ingredients were top notch, service was nice, but the experience felt off the entire time we were there. It's hard to explain but when fine dining restaurants put together an amazing experience they do it in a way that makes it look effortless, and Toshokan felt like they were trying too hard. Experience aside, the food was good, but not amazing.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 3
Service: 4
The food is always amazing! The chef is super personable and very talented! The staff are friendly and attentive. They create a 5 star experience!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Bone Marrow, Salmon Sashimi
First of all, I haven’t eaten here, but I’m a person that believes the service is a reflection of the atmosphere. It is Memorial Day, I wouldn’t want to be working either but woman as a hostess is the most unfriendly and least welcoming person I’ve encountered in quite a while. She wasn’t helpful when asking about the restaurant, or about getting a reservation probably because they are booked up for 45 days which is alright but getting cocky as an early restaurant is not how I’d like to be approach things
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 1
Very bad costumer service.
Restaurantji Recommends
I’ve been sitting on this review for a while. I’m definitely not one to tarnish any 5 star ratings!! My experience was mixed. In part by the fact that I’ve spent countless moments at midnight trying to get reservations with no luck. When I finally snagged my first res, I was shocked to be sitting next to a guy that had been multiple times (even in the past week). Most of the others also had the good fortune to be “frequent patrons”. There was one other person who said she’d been trying to grab a reservation for a while. TBH, really didn’t sit right with me.As we all know, these reviews are opinion based only. I can only give my honest assessment of my experience.The vibe seemed catered to a younger crowd for sure. I definitely felt out of place. The “F” word was used quite liberally by the staff. No big deal, just kind of off pudding when you’re paying so much. Again, I realize this may not be a popular opinion. Unfortunately we also got on the topic of church camp and “those types” which stung quite a bit since I have a strong faith base. Not really the fault of the staff but she was very much in agreement to the conversation. I am not suggesting that the chef participated in any of these convos because he didn’t.Yes, the food and drinks were absolutely delicious. I got the extra cocktail menu where we get a fun drink paired with some of the courses and also participated in the extra course which was way too fishy and slimy for me. All in all, my bill was slightly over $400. Since I just didn’t have the best experience, needless to say, it was too expensive for me.My biggest suggestion would be to not go solo.
Parking: Very difficult to find.
Hands down the best dining experience I've ever had. GL getting a res, but it's worth the effort.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Chef Saine provided an amazing experience! Food was fresh and had interesting stories around it.
Seating was intimate and the concept is to provide a very interactive experience between the staff as well as between guests.
A pre dinner cocktail or mocktail was provided for guests to get to know one another as well.
The scallop with a salsa verde was the star for me! Chef mentioned it was a pretty popular dish so likely to be on the menu.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Salmon Sashimi
I’ve been sitting on this review for a while. I’m definitely not one to tarnish any 5 star ratings!! My experience was mixed. In part by the fact that I’ve spent countless moments at midnight trying to get reservations with no luck. When I finally snagged my first res, I was shocked to be sitting next to a guy that had been multiple times (even in the past week). Most of the others also had the good fortune to be “frequent patrons”. There was one other person who said she’d been trying to grab a reservation for a while. TBH, really didn’t sit right with me.As we all know, these reviews are opinion based only. I can only give my honest assessment of my experience.The vibe seemed catered to a younger crowd for sure. I definitely felt out of place. The “F” word was used quite liberally by the staff. No big deal, just kind of off pudding when you’re paying so much. Again, I realize this may not be a popular opinion. Unfortunately we also got on the topic of church camp and “those types” which stung quite a bit since I have a strong faith base. Not really the fault of the staff but she was very much in agreement to the conversation. I am not suggesting that the chef participated in any of these convos because he didn’t.Yes, the food and drinks were absolutely delicious. I got the extra cocktail menu where we get a fun drink paired with some of the courses and also participated in the extra course which was way too fishy and slimy for me. All in all, my bill was slightly over $400. Since I just didn’t have the best experience, needless to say, it was too expensive for me.My biggest suggestion would be to not go solo.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Chef Saine provided an amazing experience! Food was fresh and had interesting stories around it.Seating was intimate and the concept is to provide a very interactive experience between the staff as well as between guests.A pre dinner cocktail or mocktail was provided for guests to get to know one another as well.The scallop with a salsa verde was the star for me! Chef mentioned it was a pretty popular dish so likely to be on the menu.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wagyu, Salmon Sashimi
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