Thanks to the GC’s status as a burgeoning foodie haven, it’s not often that we get the chance to bring you word of a totally new cuisine sauntering onto our local eats scene.

While it may be new to us, Nikkei cuisine has been having a moment of late – enjoying a rise in popularity internationally among heavy hitting culinary destinations such as Dubai, London and Miami #sohotrightnow.

There’s nothing like the prospect of discovering a brand new fave that has us forwarding that hot little link to the group chat quicker than you can say ‘whose keen?’.

With Nobby’s recently welcoming Tayta Nikkei and Pisco Bar, and with it, a whole new cuisine for us to delight in – that’s one convo we’re defs not about to be ghosting #we’resothere.

For the uninitiated, the intriguing combination of Japanese and Peruvian elements might seem a somewhat #unexpected new player in the world of fusion-style eats, though that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The culinary history behind this delicious hybrid has been formed over generations, with Nikkei the resulting cuisine of Japanese immigration to Peru some centuries ago.

Which quite frankly makes us feel like we’ve been missing out for far too long.

For owner Adriano Antonini, he could not sit idly by knowing full well the mouth-watering goodness we here on the GC were missing out on.

An impressive tenure in hospitality venues across the globe was what led Italian born Adriano to discover his love of the cuisine, after a stint working in a Nikkei hotspot in Coya, London.

Ultimately, the challenge of bringing something unique to the GC proved too irresistible, finally opening the doors to Tayta after a year long hunt for the perfect spot, adds Adriano ‘the location is great and we felt there was more need for casual fine dining options in Nobby’s’.

Heading the fit-out himself, Adriano has gone for a dark and moody vibe for the space.

Thoughtfully selected traditional Peruvian colours and patterns have informed the direction for the interiors, resulting in an elegant South American jungle aesthetic.

The 60-seat venue offers the kind of intimate ambience that invites you to settle in for a few rounds of Pisco Sours, and we oblige.

As for the food, we’re happy to report seafood lovers especially should be very keen to sea what Tayta has in store.

As a dish that originated in Peru, the menu prominently features an array of Ceviche style dishes where seafood takes centre stage.

While the likes of Tuna Chifa made with Chili Garlic, Sesame, Ponzu, Kombu, Wakame are where the obvious Japanese influences enter the chat.

We can never go past the Okonomiyaki (no matter how much we embarrass ourselves trying to pronounce it) – a Japanese Pancake with Slow cooked Pork, Charred Corn, Spicy Mayo, Tayta spiced mix.

While sushi lovers, and even the sushi ambivalent (an oxymoron, surely) will be tempted with some zesty takes on their usual go-to’s, with a boujee Tuna Roll made with Cucumber, Spicy Mayo, Truffle Ponzu, Roasted Sesame that will undoubtedly see us unable to return to it’s food court counterpart.

Also coming in September is Tayta’s Saturday brunch with bottomless Peruvian Chicha Morada cocktails.

Till then, we’ll make do with a few Hibiscus Pisco Sours – a delicious twist on the Peru’s national drink – the Classico Pisco Sour (and probably a couple of those, for good measure).

See you there, amigos!

Where: 2/2243 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
When: Tuesday-Saturday 5-10pm

Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.

The magic word here is omakase, which translates to “I’ll leave it up to you.” It’s the ultimate culinary trust fall, and at One Eighty, you’re landing in the expert hands of Chef Akihiro Kitade. This isn’t just any chef, Kitade is a culinary maestro with Bib Gourmand nods and a spot on Tokyo’s top restaurant lists. He’s bringing that next-level expertise to the Gold Coast, crafting each course using the freshest seasonal ingredients for a bespoke dining journey designed just for you.

Let’s get into those flavours, shall we? Your omakase adventure might kick off with the comforting embrace of chicken clear soup, setting the tone with a subtle warmth. From there, it’s a rollercoaster ride of fresh sashimi so pristine it practically whispers of the sea, crispy prawn tempura that’s light and crunchy perfection, and yakitori skewers flame-licked to juicy, smoky glory. Each bite feels like a chef’s kiss, but the premium menu? That’s where things really get wild. Think tuna belly sashimi so buttery it melts on contact, wagyu beef sukiyaki that redefines indulgence, and the pièce de résistance: the 180 Original Eye Fillet Sandwich. It’s the kind of dish you dream about long after the plates are cleared.

And don’t worry, veggie lovers—they’ve got you covered too. Juicy mushrooms and crisp sugar snap peas add a refreshing balance, while unexpected delights like hamachi carpaccio and soft quail eggs keep you on your toes. It’s all about harmony, each course carefully orchestrated to surprise and satisfy in equal measure.

Let’s not forget the drinks because, honestly, what’s an omakase without a perfect sip to match? One Eighty’s lineup of Japanese whiskies is the stuff of legend. Each smooth, smoky pour pairs effortlessly with the bold flavours on your plate, elevating the entire experience to a whole new level.

The vibe? Pure Japan, no jetlag required. The venue blends contemporary design with striking Japanese accents, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. And if you’re planning something special, go ahead and skewer a spot in the private dining room. With seating for eight, it’s an exclusive hideaway that’s perfect for celebrating with your nearest and dearest.

But what really sets One Eighty apart isn’t just the food—it’s the omotenashi. This Japanese tradition of selfless hospitality goes beyond meeting your needs; it anticipates them. From the moment you sit down, you’re not just a guest—you’re royalty. Every detail, from the perfectly timed courses to the warm, attentive service, feels like it’s been tailored just for you.

Whether you’re a seasoned yakitori enthusiast or a curious first-timer ready to take the plunge, One Eighty is about to blow your mind (and your taste buds). Prepare to be bowled over—or should we say skewered?—by impeccable service, unforgettable flavours, and an experience that’ll leave you planning your next visit before you even leave.

Where: 1 Frank St, Labrador
When: Tuesday – Saturday 4:30pm – 10pm