"Verdict: Austin is home to a handful of very good omakase-only spots, and we put Toshokan up there near the top. Here, you’ll eat your way through about 14 courses that range from super classic nigiri (like otoro nigiri simply dressed in soy and wasabi) to more inventive bites with globally inspired flavors (like Hokkaido scallops with Peruvian salsa verde). The food is inventive without feeling over the top, the atmosphere is fun and intimate, and you’ll probably leave the tiny dining room feeling like you just made five new friends. " - nicolai mccrary, raphael brion