Sane is a jerk. My partner was holding a conversation with the employee and just because he didn’t put his plate up he was cussed at. Super unprofessional and do not recommend for the hospitality. Food wise it was great, but don’t expect to be treated with respect if you’re a social person. Zach and Nicole 10/10! ☺️
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Farhad Ahmadi Koutalan
Toshokan in Austin offers one of the city’s most unique dining experiences a hidden six-seat omakase tucked behind a bookshelf. The moment you step in, it feels like entering a private culinary theater. Each course is beautifully crafted, balancing traditional Japanese technique with modern creativity. Service feels personal and attentive. For sushi lovers seeking something intimate and distinctive, it delivers on quality and imagination.
That said, the location slightly undercuts the otherwise premium experience. Being inside a casual venue gives it a “speakeasy” charm, but also makes it feel a bit mismatched with the elevated standard of the food and price point. The food easily stands among Austin’s best omakase offerings, but the surroundings could better match the caliber of the cuisine.
Overall, Toshokan is a memorable and impressive concept that blends great sushi with a fun, secretive vibe. It’s a place worth visiting for its originality and craftsmanship, but I’d love to see this “skippy” restaurant eventually move to a more fitting, upscale space where the ambiance fully matches its exceptional food and service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Kurt Varner
The best dinner of my life! Exceptional chef, incredible food, warm ambiance, and outstanding staff. It feels like dining with family and friends. A truly rare and special experience—highly recommend!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
momina nadeem
Such an amazing experience all around. Zach, Madeline, and Saine were so amazing. They made our anniversary so special. Each course was unique and delicious. Truly the best omakase in Austin. We’ll definitely be back for more!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mark Ziller
Very unique experience even among small high end omakase restaurants. Tiny six-person restaurant that is hidden away speakeasy style inside a mini golf business.
It was fun getting to speak so intimately with the chef and you are right there in the action
Very good sushi…not as good I felt as Otoko but superb.
Very pricey, I think it was $600+ for my wife and I (without any of the wine or sake pairings).
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nate
This might’ve been the best meal I’ve ever had. Amazing food, great service, intimate experience. 10/10!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amanda G
Doesn’t get better than this. This was my second time at Toshokan but first at the new location. The food is absolutely incredible for starters that I wish it was easier to get a reservation…I would splurge on this meal at least once a month. The fact he doesn’t have a Michelin star is beyond me. C’Mon Michelin folks! I love how he walks through where your fish was sourced and why. I had the cocktail pairing this time. I rarely get cocktails because they are typically too sugary. I mentioned that to the mixologist and she crafted my cocktails as I wished! 🤩 The 8 person intimate setting is like no other experience I’ve had. Ugh, I love this place.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Lukas Gilkey
Not sure why they don’t have more reviews. Best experience and sushi I have ever had. They crushed it. Pretty sure people are not reviewing it so the reservations don’t get harder to attain. Oh well, they deserve it. Get on the email list and be very quick when the reservations open up once a month. Epic dinner, it is worth the effort and price.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Angelica Le
Rating: 4.8/5
Toshokan is a speakeasy-style omakase spot hidden behind a bookshelf inside the Holey Moley Golf Club. Chef and owner Saine Wong designed the experience to be highly personal and intimate, with only two seatings per night and a maximum of six guests per seating. It's quite difficult to get a reservation, as they're snatched up quickly once released. We were super lucky that someone canceled their spot for the 8:30 PM seating the day after my husband's birthday. They start promptly, so plan to arrive early to allow time for parking.
Each guest receives a custom coaster with their name on it to help find their seat--such a thoughtful touch. They also do an icebreaker so everyone, including the staff, can get to know one another a bit more. Before dining begins, you get to choose your own chopsticks and chopstick rest, which adds to the fun and personalized feel.
Chef Saine is joined by two team members: one handles the drinks, and the other assists with food prep. The service is impeccable--after each course, they even wipe your plate clean if you spill soy sauce. We opted to split the sake/cocktail pairing ($115), and the bar manager (I believe her name was Maddie) kindly split each drink for us. Every cocktail was thoughtfully crafted to complement the sushi. I'm usually not a fan of sake, but the one they served was surprisingly good! They also offer individual drinks, so there's something for everyone.
There's a lot of conversation and interaction throughout the meal, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Toward the end, Chef Saine offered additional add-ons before serenading us with a few songs on the guitar. He sang happy birthday to my husband and happy anniversary to the couple next to us, which was such a sweet gesture. We even had a mini karaoke session before wrapping up around 11 PM. The 14-course omakase costs $170 per person, and I truly believe it's worth it for the unique, immersive experience.
Food Breakdown:
The blue fin bird's nest-looking starter was delicious--one of my favorites. I loved the contrasting textures.
I don't normally eat oysters, but I gave it a try. Can't say I loved it, but it wasn't bad.
The salmon was from New Zealand. It was good, though I've had better. This was a deconstructed nigiri, and you could really taste the house-made rice and soy sauce.
The tuna belly was solid, but nothing particularly unique.
I don't usually eat sea bream, but this one was excellent!
The hamachi was seasoned to taste like a spicy margarita and ended up being my favorite of the night.
I'm not a fan of amberjack's texture, so this one was just okay for me.
The spot prawn was good, but not as sweet as I expected.
The scallop was plated on a green sauce that I absolutely loved--I could've licked the plate clean.
I don't recall the exact market special, but I think it involved crab.
The wagyu was, as expected, amazing. Chef even showed the certification of authenticity.
The unagi was one of the best I've had.
The bone marrow was served on toast. It was good but didn't stand out.
The dessert was a rice-based ice cream that had subtle flavors and level of sweetness. It was just okay for me. I enjoyed the wasabi on top and think they should infuse it in the ice cream.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Digger Arey
The chef personally came out to greet us — nice touch.
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
Sane is a jerk. My partner was holding a conversation with the employee and just because he didn’t put his plate up he was cussed at. Super unprofessional and do not recommend for the hospitality. Food wise it was great, but don’t expect to be treated with respect if you’re a social person. Zach and Nicole 10/10! ☺️
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Toshokan in Austin offers one of the city’s most unique dining experiences a hidden six-seat omakase tucked behind a bookshelf. The moment you step in, it feels like entering a private culinary theater. Each course is beautifully crafted, balancing traditional Japanese technique with modern creativity. Service feels personal and attentive. For sushi lovers seeking something intimate and distinctive, it delivers on quality and imagination.
That said, the location slightly undercuts the otherwise premium experience. Being inside a casual venue gives it a “speakeasy” charm, but also makes it feel a bit mismatched with the elevated standard of the food and price point. The food easily stands among Austin’s best omakase offerings, but the surroundings could better match the caliber of the cuisine.
Overall, Toshokan is a memorable and impressive concept that blends great sushi with a fun, secretive vibe. It’s a place worth visiting for its originality and craftsmanship, but I’d love to see this “skippy” restaurant eventually move to a more fitting, upscale space where the ambiance fully matches its exceptional food and service.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The best dinner of my life! Exceptional chef, incredible food, warm ambiance, and outstanding staff. It feels like dining with family and friends. A truly rare and special experience—highly recommend!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Such an amazing experience all around. Zach, Madeline, and Saine were so amazing. They made our anniversary so special. Each course was unique and delicious. Truly the best omakase in Austin. We’ll definitely be back for more!!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Very unique experience even among small high end omakase restaurants. Tiny six-person restaurant that is hidden away speakeasy style inside a mini golf business.
It was fun getting to speak so intimately with the chef and you are right there in the action
Very good sushi…not as good I felt as Otoko but superb.
Very pricey, I think it was $600+ for my wife and I (without any of the wine or sake pairings).
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This might’ve been the best meal I’ve ever had. Amazing food, great service, intimate experience. 10/10!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Doesn’t get better than this. This was my second time at Toshokan but first at the new location. The food is absolutely incredible for starters that I wish it was easier to get a reservation…I would splurge on this meal at least once a month. The fact he doesn’t have a Michelin star is beyond me. C’Mon Michelin folks! I love how he walks through where your fish was sourced and why. I had the cocktail pairing this time. I rarely get cocktails because they are typically too sugary. I mentioned that to the mixologist and she crafted my cocktails as I wished! 🤩 The 8 person intimate setting is like no other experience I’ve had. Ugh, I love this place.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Not sure why they don’t have more reviews. Best experience and sushi I have ever had. They crushed it. Pretty sure people are not reviewing it so the reservations don’t get harder to attain. Oh well, they deserve it. Get on the email list and be very quick when the reservations open up once a month. Epic dinner, it is worth the effort and price.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rating: 4.8/5
Toshokan is a speakeasy-style omakase spot hidden behind a bookshelf inside the Holey Moley Golf Club. Chef and owner Saine Wong designed the experience to be highly personal and intimate, with only two seatings per night and a maximum of six guests per seating. It's quite difficult to get a reservation, as they're snatched up quickly once released. We were super lucky that someone canceled their spot for the 8:30 PM seating the day after my husband's birthday. They start promptly, so plan to arrive early to allow time for parking.
Each guest receives a custom coaster with their name on it to help find their seat--such a thoughtful touch. They also do an icebreaker so everyone, including the staff, can get to know one another a bit more. Before dining begins, you get to choose your own chopsticks and chopstick rest, which adds to the fun and personalized feel.
Chef Saine is joined by two team members: one handles the drinks, and the other assists with food prep. The service is impeccable--after each course, they even wipe your plate clean if you spill soy sauce. We opted to split the sake/cocktail pairing ($115), and the bar manager (I believe her name was Maddie) kindly split each drink for us. Every cocktail was thoughtfully crafted to complement the sushi. I'm usually not a fan of sake, but the one they served was surprisingly good! They also offer individual drinks, so there's something for everyone.
There's a lot of conversation and interaction throughout the meal, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Toward the end, Chef Saine offered additional add-ons before serenading us with a few songs on the guitar. He sang happy birthday to my husband and happy anniversary to the couple next to us, which was such a sweet gesture. We even had a mini karaoke session before wrapping up around 11 PM. The 14-course omakase costs $170 per person, and I truly believe it's worth it for the unique, immersive experience.
Food Breakdown:
The blue fin bird's nest-looking starter was delicious--one of my favorites. I loved the contrasting textures.
I don't normally eat oysters, but I gave it a try. Can't say I loved it, but it wasn't bad.
The salmon was from New Zealand. It was good, though I've had better. This was a deconstructed nigiri, and you could really taste the house-made rice and soy sauce.
The tuna belly was solid, but nothing particularly unique.
I don't usually eat sea bream, but this one was excellent!
The hamachi was seasoned to taste like a spicy margarita and ended up being my favorite of the night.
I'm not a fan of amberjack's texture, so this one was just okay for me.
The spot prawn was good, but not as sweet as I expected.
The scallop was plated on a green sauce that I absolutely loved--I could've licked the plate clean.
I don't recall the exact market special, but I think it involved crab.
The wagyu was, as expected, amazing. Chef even showed the certification of authenticity.
The unagi was one of the best I've had.
The bone marrow was served on toast. It was good but didn't stand out.
The dessert was a rice-based ice cream that had subtle flavors and level of sweetness. It was just okay for me. I enjoyed the wasabi on top and think they should infuse it in the ice cream.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The chef personally came out to greet us — nice touch.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
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
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