Transport yourself to Tokyo at this mysterious and moody yet fun and vibrant space reminiscent of a Japanese izakaya. Prop up the bar or nab a seat under…

Elsewhere, go-to foodie spots include Etsu Izakaya at Mermaid Beach for izakaya-style fare, Justin Lane at Burleigh Heads for rustic pasta dishes and pizzas, and Hellenika at Nobby’s Beach for Greek sharing plates. Also visit-worthy is the Cicchetti - the casual-chic dining spot on the Isle of Capri where the modern Italian seafood, meat and pasta dishes and extensive wine list are as appealing as the Australian blackbutt timber tables, rose-gold pendant lighting, and giant chandelier suspended above the bar.

This immaculate venue has been a raging success since the day it opened, and it’s not hard to see why. Be it the sexy fit out, the energetic atmosphere (do NOT come for a night of quiet convo), the loveable owners and their seriously cool staff, or that Etsu are plating up some of the most nek-level modern Japanese eats the Coast has ever seen. And as if they couldn’t be any more perfect in our eyes, Etsu are throwing their first ever pop-up outdoor dinner party “Feast Under a Tipi” later this month.

It’s unlikely you’d stumble across this white timber door by accident – and even if you did, you wouldn’t consider going inside. Those who do however are rewarded with a Japanese izakaya-style dining room, filled with delightful Asian creations, effortlessly cool décor and a palette of cool stuff to match. Feast on plates that have been designed to share; from your classics like sushi and sashimi, to more experimental tempura dishes and an abundance of innovative cocktails.

Hidden behind a whitewash timber door, if you didn’t already know about Etsu, you’d question whether you’d stumbled upon a city-side barn. But, look a little closer and you’ll find a modern Japanese izakaya-style dining room with effortlessly cool staff, brought to life with incredible Asian creations—cocktails and sake included. Etsu Izakaya is one of our top picks for an elevated date night, but it just as easily pivots to become a lively group dining restaurant.

Etsu Izakaya offers a slice of Japan in Mermaid Beach with its authentic Japanese izakaya dining experience. Hidden behind a nondescript facade, this restaurant delights with its traditional Japanese decor and a meticulously crafted menu that features sushi, sashimi, and a variety of grilled dishes. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of Etsu Izakaya, from the preparation of the food to the presentation.

Not technically a cafe as it’s only open in the evenings but I’ve included it here for its informal style based loosely on a Japanese Izakaya. It’s a difficult one to put into a category but the unique style and fantastic food make it a worthy inclusion especially if you have a real love of Asian flavours as we do. The seating is a mix of bar stools, large shared benches and tables that will accommodate 2-4 people.

One of the Gold Coast’s coolest Japanese destinations is Etsu Izakaya. This hidden gem on the Gold Coast Highway is signposted by a single red lantern; draw back the door to reveal a lively warehouse filled with lanterns and sunked couches. The sashimi is top-notch, as is the Tempura Moreton Bay Bugs with Watermelon, and any of the smoky delights coming off the binchotan grill.

A hidden homage to Japanese cuisine, just two blocks back from the beach, Etsu Izakaya is a place for those in the know. You’d unlikely stumble across its white timber door by accident – and even if you did, you wouldn’t consider going inside. Those who do, however, are rewarded with a traditional izakaya-style den, filled with edgy Japanese-inspired decor and wonderful dishes.

**Etsu Izakaya is a traditional Japanese izakaya, which essentially is a traditional Japanese pub that serves liquor. The divine food is made for sharing and to be paired with the extensive selection of Japanese whisky and sake on offer. The restaurant is decked out with neon lights, Japanese art and mood lighting that creates an atmosphere definitely worth checking out.

Etsu Izakaya is a Japanese izakaya-style restaurant hidden behind an unmarked door—once inside, you’ll find a dimly lit, vibrant space with amazing sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes. It’s one of the most popular spots on the Gold Coast, so reservations are a must. Average Price: $$$ (~$50–$80 AUD per person)Reservations: Highly recommended

Etsu doesn’t have to try too hard to be one of the best Gold Coast restaurants – it effortlessly brings elevated Japanese cuisine—complete with whiskey and sake—right to the heart of Mermaid Beach. From sashimi to sushi, onigiri to wagyu carpaccio and beyond, Etsu is the perfect restaurant to enjoy a little slice of Japan on the Goldie.

Driving down the Gold Coast Highway, you’d easily miss this modern Japanese izakaya-style restaurant hidden behind a giant, whitewashed timber door. It’s easier to spot at night with its constant line-up – you could say this place is a crowd favourite!. Designed to share, Etsu lets you indulge in all your Asian cuisine fantasies.

Etsu Izakaya is a Mermaid Beach mainstay with a legendary reputation for its sensational Japanese cuisine. Hidden behind a non-descript barn door, the chic cavernous establishment still manages to draw a roaring crowd. Inside, a buzzing chatty atmosphere and joyous sociable vibe—the sake helps—ensure a memorable night out.

For a taste of Japan on the Gold Coast, head to Etsu Izakaya in Mermaid Beach. This hidden gem offers a traditional izakaya dining experience, with a menu that features a mix of sushi, sashimi, and grilled dishes. The Wagyu Beef Tataki and the Spicy Tuna Roll are particular favorites, as is the Black Cod Miso.

Right on the lively Gold Coast Highway, a little slice of Japan awaits you. Etsu Izakaya is one of the Gold Coast’s authentic Japanese restaurants you should add to your list. As you step in, you’ll be swept away by the warmth of its atmosphere and the mouth-watering aroma of authentic Japanese food.

Etsu is a Japanese izakaya that focuses on local amazing produce in their dishes. Their dishes are designed to be shared amongst friends. They have one of the largest Japanese whisky collections on and recommend a dram served over hand cut ice or try one of their sakes or Japanese tap beers.

Location: 2440 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach, QLD 4218 Ph: (07) 5526 0944. Over on the delightfully named Mermaid Beach, there’s a surprise lurking behind a pair of white barn doors. Venture inside and you’ll find Etsu Izakaya – one of the finest Japanese restaurants on the Gold Coast.

Japanese food doesn’t get much better or more authentic than Etsu Izakaya, located in Mermaid Beach. In true Izakaya fashion, the restaurant’s shopfront is understated, lit only by a red lantern. But, slide open the white barn door and you’ll enter a whole new world of flavour.

Etsu Izakaya is a contemporary Japanese izakaya style dining. Their dishes are designed to be shared and served steadily during the course of the evening. Customers can order again and again, share with every friends or they can come by themselves and sit at their dining bar.

One of the original Japanese eateries still lays claim to be one of the city’s best places to eat out. Beyond an eye-catching drink offering, the set menus at Etsu Izakaya are a fabulous exploration of Japanese ingredients and flavours. Must try: Wagyu Gyoza.

Probably our second favourite place to eat on the Gold Coast after The Tropic!. Etsu Izakaya Japanese is fine dining Japanese served in tapas-style but the vibe is the best part. It’s very secluded and hidden away with a speakeasy vibe and dark fit out.

Etsu Izakaya Japanese restaurant in Mermaid Beach offers diners a seriously suave experience in equally sophisticated settings. Under moody dimmed lights, diners can select from a fantastic menu based on the modern Japanese Izakaya style of dining.

One of the trendiest spots on the Gold Coast, this place is perfect for a date and a drink, but most of all this place is known for its creative Japanese cuisine made for sharing, from the sushi bar to the robata grill. It’s time to wok and roll!

A Japanese menu like no other, Etsu is a dining experience to remember. The dishes are designed to be shared, but you can certainly enjoy the dishes alone if you wish!. This impressive list of dishes is served in a dark Tokyo-style setting.

Adjacent to Miami lies the gorgeous coastal town of Mermaid Beach, here you'll discover the cool interiors of Etsu, a modern Japanese Izakaya-style restaurant offering incredible Asian dishes, designed to share.