Etsu Izakaya

Etsu Izakaya 🏮 is easily the best Izakaya this side of Tokyo. The moment you walk through the iconic timber door, you are instantly transported more than 7,000km to Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. Like the service, the food is sensational and simply exquisite. Caitlin, our waitress, was amazing. Her service was impeccable also along with her knowledge of the dishes. She certainly made our evening memorable. Thank you Caitlin and staff.

I went Etsu for my anniversary, I choose just based on reviews, because I have never been here before. It was a great choice, the food was superb, I don't thing there is a best way to describe it. The place was quite full, so definitely book in advance, it was a bit loud, but it was ok. Service was also great. Worth to try, even if you don't live nearby (my case). Will be back!

I absolutely loved Etsu! I went here with my family and we had a really great night. The food was incredible, and so many options for all dietaries. My mum is on a specific diet and they sat with her and worked through the menu to find options for her. The drinks were great and the overall atmosphere was brilliant. The staff were also friendly, efficient and attentive. A great experience.

We just experienced the best Japanese food we have ever tasted. There were absolutely no complaints. The food, atmosphere and most importantly, the service were impeccable. Amazing cocktails and mocktails that you can tell were very well thought out. We chose the set menu with the wagyu beef and raw fish that absolutely melted in our mouth. What a way to spend our last night in the Gold Coast, we will definitely be back! Worth every penny

I went to Etsu two nights in a row - and for good reason! The first night, everything was so delicious that I was impressed. I had to go back the very next night, this time with friends so they could experience it too. From the service to the flavours, everything was spot on. It is not often that a place impresses me enough to return immediately, but this one absolutely did. Highly recommend!

Wow. It's not often I get wowed. Even less that I get wowed on the Gold Coast. Random walk in because we didn't know the place, fully booked, we said we'd come back. Squeezed us in hour and a half later. Chef who put this menu together knows their stuff. The food is next level, the cocktails...also next level. Staff are friendly, knowledgeable and very efficient. Lachlan served us, and he was amazing. Champion bloke, knew his shit and his suggestions were spot on. Have eaten in some great places around the world and I rate this place highly. Would give 6 stars if I could. Can't wait to go back for more.

Living in Melbourne, there is no shortage of amazing restaurants but Etsu, Gold Coast is one of the best venues I’ve ever eaten at. The food was absolutely INSANE, service was incredible and the venue and overall vibe was extremely cool. You must get the Tempura Prawns, I have been dreaming of it since. The cocktails were also top tier! I will be coming back as often as I possibly can ❤️🥢✨

I made a reservation, and when we were seated, both the table and the seats were quite dirty and was visually clear that it wasnt cleaned. The waitress was aware of the issue and gave them a quick sweep. After we sat down we felt our butts were sticky and a little wet. After we got back home we realised our pants and dress were stained. However, the food was good and the manager was super friendly.

A Hidden Gem of Japanese Cuisine - Etsu Izakaya Etsu Izakaya is an absolute treasure tucked away in the heart of the city. From the moment you walk through the unassuming wooden door, you're transported to a world of authentic Japanese vibes and delicious cuisine. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. The low lighting, rustic decor, and lively energy set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. Now, onto the food - simply outstanding! The menu offers a variety of traditional and modern Japanese dishes, and each one is a flavor-packed delight. The sashimi was incredibly fresh, and the tempura was light, crispy, and perfectly seasoned. I also recommend trying their signature cocktails, which pair wonderfully with the food. Be sure to try the old fashion made with Japanese Whiskey!

Not what it used to be. a chef sent me this video of a rat feeling from their bins last night. be careful! there are many rats around Leo.

First of all starting with the food because it is a restaurant. The food is some of the best i have had in about 100 restaurants it's always fresh and the same. The service here feels like they are robots that can only be nice because these people are delightful. The ambiance is actually great

One of my favorite restaurants in the world. This was such a meaningful place for me and the food and drinks and ambience just we're all super special and wonderful. I've been here I think two or three times and each time has been just magical. Perfect service!

Hands down the best Japanese restaurant Ive discovered in the Gold Coast so far! Reservations are easily made online and I definitely suggest them as they get quite busy. The entrance is through a secret barn-like door, which confused me the first time I went. Inside they have several types of seating options. The first time I came was Valentines Day and was sat at a communal table. Yesterday when I was able to get a private table. They also have tables for large parties where you sit on pillows (standard japanese style) and bar seating as well. For the food they have a huge selection on the menu. Lots of different dishes ranging from seafood to sushi to meats and everything in between. Both times I opted to do the Omakase menu as that seemed like the best deal. The first half of the items came out pretty fast but the second half took awhile. The salted edamame is delicious and still comes with the stems, which allows you to see its very fresh and not the frozen kind you buy in stores. Next I was presented with delicious sashimi. They had salmon, tuna, kingfish, and barramundi. Normally this dish comes with oysters but due to my food preference they just gave more sashimi. Following this dish the wagyu carpaccio was presented. This normally comes with jalapeño salsa however I requested it not to be spicy. Next was the shrimp tempura - huge pieces of shrimp lightly battered. My favorite dish was after that which was the black miso cod. AMAZING! The was its cooked and accompanied with the sauce is mouth-watering. Next came the hot stone beef. This was an interesting concept as the beef is actually cooked on the stone while they pour some fire liquid on top. Lastly I was presented with some nigiri and miso soup to end the Omakase menu. All of the food is outstanding and the service is remarkable. I'm from the States and this restaurant very closely resembles Nobu and Katsuya. Would highly recommend to everyone!

Visited the Gold Coast for the weekend and heard of this place from my AirBnB host. Tastey tempura, fresh seafood, zesty flavours - a must for anyone who appreciates Japanese cuisine

This is truly a hidden gem. The food is amazing!!! Wonderful setting with friendly staff. I would (and do) recommend this place to everyone!!!

My new favourite Japanese restaurant on the Gold Coast. The food was amazing and the service matched the food. Great staff who guided us through the menu for delicious night. I will definitely be back and highly recommend.

Great dining experience. All dishes were great. Especially liked the raw scallop dish. Waiting staff attentive and helpful. Gin garden cocktails were a great way to start a great meal all round.

Was recommended by Airbnb host. The food was superbly presented and delicious. The staff were attentive, passionate about the restaurants food with a warmth and friendly attitude. Thank you Etsu, for a wonderful culinary experience.

Our 2nd visit this week! Crazy busy Saturday night and the atmosphere was super fun and staff really great - always had a drink in front of me! Espresso martini was the perfect finish way to end our night. We'll be back!

Amazing! We had the $79 chefs selection and every dish was amazing. Can't even single out a favorite. The cod, the kingfish, the pork belly, Gyoza's....even the edamame was divine. The dessert was the best tasting plate ever....the banana spring rolls, tofu cheesecake, pannacotta and the icecreams...wow! And the service and atmosphere made for a great night. Super friendly and helpful. We had an early sitting and never felt rushed to leave. Can't wait to go back next time we're in town. Warning though....it's lots of food! Make sure you're hungry!

One of the worst dining experiences I've ever had, so bad it was like one of those comedy restaurants. They gave new meaning to packed in like sardines, 10 people on a table of 6 they ended up having to move 4 of our party to another table. One of our group had a fly in their water. 6 of us wanted the set menu, the other 4 wanted to order off the menu the waitress said everyone has to have set menu. The Waitress thought she was a model and hated her job, she was a snob, unhappy, unpleasant and unprofessional. We ordered a $70 bottle of sake to help elevate the stress before deciding to leave. We didn't eat there. I'm sure it's good food but a dining experience is just that an all encompassing experience. There are plenty of great restaurants in the Gold Coast don't settle for bad unfriendly service here.

This was our very first visit to Etsu Izakaya. we had driven past it numbers times, each time noticing the red lantern swaying in the breeze. it has a certain air of mystery about it, thats for sure. Exactly what we were after. We started with the spiced Edemame, fresh and well seasoned. Paired with a 'Japanese Gin Garden' (Gin, Sake, Apple, basil & cucumber) and a cup of Dassai 50 Daigingo, we began our evening of gastronomic delight. What follows is a list and description of what later made its way into bellies. - juicy Asparagus wrapped in crispy (delicious, salty) pork belly - the salmon carpaccio which was dressed in the most amazing mixture of things I have forgotten...it was topped with micro herbs. It was around this point that we ordered a sec on round of drinks; Etsu Highball Nikka from the barrel, fresh lime & Ginger topped with Fever Tree ginger ale. and the Etsu Mug Special, again I apologise but I can't remember what was in it. It did however have a large slice of Grapefruit in it and tasted amazing. - juicy chicken teriyaki, AMAZING SAUCE, plate licking good, came on a bed of mashed potato and a side of salad. - green tea soba salad, a fantastic way to end the meal. full of flavour and great textures. All in all a fantastic experience. the service is outstanding and the food fantastic. Well Done Etsu Gold Coast

Fantastic hole-in-the-wall Japanese dining experience on the Gold Coast. Staff are solicitous and the banquet provides a great range of dishes (warning, lots of food!). Interior design of space is funky and so different, when compared to the usual Surfers/Broadbeach bland affairs. It is noisy, but it's always an enjoyable night out.

Unique design and food. We visit many Japanese restaurants around of world but Etsu in our Gold Coast the best. My daughter invite me there a first time and now I invite all my friends and family members there.

Noisy little joint full of great atmosphere and divine food. Tapas style Japanese so order to share... The soft shell crab is amazing!