Skewer Your FOMO at One Eighty.
Skewer Your FOMO at One Eighty.
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
Words by Lisette Drew
Images by Mathilde Bouby
Shiro Gelato & Snack is Southport’s new HQ of sweet and savoury Japanese small bites (and licks) you Japaneed to be acquainted with, like now, arigatou gozaimasu.
Perched just a hop skip and a yum from the G’s Southport tram stop, the conveniently positioned new venue is a #snaccident waiting to happen for lucky passersby. For owner Kei Okamoto, a well-placed location was the main priority when selecting the new spot for Shiro Gelato & Snack. His former experience dishing up street food style Japanese eats at markets, combined with head chef Shodai Kawakami’s ten-year culinary expertise is the ultimate matcha made in heaven.
The two-legged fuzzy ball mascot featured throughout the shop’s signage is your subliminal sign to leg it on in to discover the array of treats that await. The interior fit out was handled by the Shiro crew (what can’t they do), with a simply-appointed and welcoming space framed by classic crisp-white subway tiles – while the seductive glow of those house-made gelatos glisten from the cabinet beyond. The intimate, corridor style space offers limited casual seating to lick, sip and savour until the #hanger safely subsides.
For those not familiar with Japanese fare, you might be wondering just want you can expect from the Shiro Gelato & Snack menu. Think authentic light Japanese bites worthy of quashing the most serious of snack attacks (though, with a couple of Onirigi’s under the belt, you may still feel a lot like rolling on out of there).
The aforementioned savoury specialty Onigiri, is a popular Japanese rice ball lunch and snack dish, as tasty as it is convenient to nom on-the-go. The Shiro offering includes six signature flavours such as a classic salmon and takana, made with Japanese leafy green mustard pickles and spices promising a slightly spicy and tangy flavour. Though we also like the sound of the Negi Miso – Shallots, miso, citrus chilli paste a shal–lot.
For sweet tooths, curb your cravings by sinking your teeth into the beloved jelly-like, traditional Japanese sweet treat that is Warabi Mochi.
Though we’ll never miss an opportunity to gush about gelato (umm hello, we live for this), and the Shiro Gelato & Snack selection of Japanese flavours does not disappoint. Japanese eats enthusiasts will be soy into the Kinako – a roasted soybean flour flavour most commonly compared to peanut butter. Joined by yet more mouth watering contenders such as Black sesame, Matcha white chocolate, miso caramel, and the vegan friendly Yuzu and lemon flavour.
Can’t decide which sweet treat you’re in the mood for? Same. Might we suggest a thinly Mochi-wrapped (and/or topped!) gelato scoop for the ultimate best of both worlds action.
There’s no doubt lucky northern locals will bento-ver backwards to get their Shiro Gelato & Snack fix, while for everyone else this little Southport side quest is a tasty snackrifice well worth taking.
Where: 50 Nerang St, Southport
When: 11:30am–10pm daily
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.
The Star Gold Coast’s signature Japanese dining experience Kiyomi has undergone one of the most impressive glow-ups the Gold Coast has ever seen showcasing a stunning multi-sensory experience you’ll need to see to believe. The renewal has been dubbed “a creative collision of ritual and art” and includes an elevated menu and brand new private dining space.
If you’ve not yet had the pleasure of the Kiyomi experience, now is the perfect time to treat yourself to something special; think time-honoured Tokyo craftsmanship meets the adventurousness of Australian cooking.
The brand-new magic is evident as soon as you step through the entryway, which is adorned with a blend of raw, transformative textures. The 112-seat main dining space offers a warm, welcoming vibe with Japanese calligraphy as a beautiful, decorative feature.
The recent addition of a 16-seat private dining space further elevates Kiyomi with bold graphic artwork and an intimate moody feel. The perfect option if you’re in need of a fine dining experience surrounded by quiet luxury (and a select few of your favourite people).
The private space is open for lunch with a selection of set menus and both a sushi and sashimi grazing table. Dinner choices include a 10-course Omakase menu or the Premium Omakase menu, including a Chef demonstration the likes of which you’ve never seen before.
Head Chef Winson Law, who has been led Kiyomi for the past seven years has created a menu leaning into soy and miso flavours along with the delicacy of dashi (a combination of sweet, salty, bitter and sour) which he says is quickly becoming one of the most requested tastes on the Coast.
He says, “We are fortunate in Australia to have some of the best ingredients and freshest seafood, which complements our Japanese-inspired dishes. One of our most popular dishes is because of the quality of Australian Wagyu beef. Its exquisite marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture really brings a meal to life.”
New additions to the menu include the likes of Red Snapper, sashimi and Kombujime Amaebi with pickled daikon and ginger lime dressing, Mooloolaba Prawn toast with Karashi miso, Spanner Crab and cabbage, plus aged Pork Tomahawk with apple wasabi, pork jus with Okinawa black sugar.
As always, an unrivalled drinks menu is on offer to accompany the five-star dining experience. Choose from an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whiskey, an exceptional wine list and of course perfectly crafted cocktails to reflect the magic that is Kiyomi.
So quite obviously, the next time you’re in need of a Japanese dining experience that is modern, traditional and as good as you’ll find anywhere in the world, look no further than Kiyomi, right in the heart of Broadbeach at The Star Gold Coast.
Where: Lobby Level The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: 5.30pm – 9pm, Monday – Sunday
Words by Kirra Smith
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol. Guests must be 18 years or over to enter the Casino. BET WITH YOUR HEAD, NOT OVER IT. Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858.
