Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Austin, TX

North America

United States

# Toshokan – Exclusive Omakase Dining Experience in Austin, TX
Toshokan, located in Austin, TX, is a unique speakeasy-style restaurant that offers an intimate omakase dining experience. Hidden behind a bookshelf in the Holey Moley Golf Club, this culinary gem is helmed by Chef Saine Wong, who has crafted a dining experience that is both personal and memorable. Since its inception, Toshokan has garnered a reputation for its exquisite sushi and engaging atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination for food enthusiasts. Guests rave about the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous preparation of each dish, as well as the warm and inviting ambiance that encourages connections among diners.

## History
### The story of Toshokan
Toshokan, meaning "library" in Japanese, was founded by Chef Saine Wong, who relocated to Austin during the pandemic. His vision was to create a space where guests could enjoy high-quality sushi in an intimate setting, fostering a sense of community among diners. The concept of a hidden restaurant adds an element of surprise and exclusivity, making each visit feel special.

### Milestones and growth
- **2020**: Chef Saine Wong opens Toshokan, introducing a unique omakase experience in Austin.
- **2021**: The restaurant gains popularity, attracting food enthusiasts and garnering attention for its innovative approach to sushi.
- **2022**: Toshokan receives accolades from local food critics and diners alike, solidifying its place in Austin's culinary scene.
- **2023**: Continues to thrive, with reservations often booked months in advance, showcasing its sustained demand and popularity.

### Cultural and local influence
Toshokan has become a significant part of Austin's dining culture, blending traditional Japanese culinary techniques with local flavors and ingredients. The restaurant's intimate setting encourages guests to engage with one another, creating a communal dining experience that reflects Austin's friendly and welcoming spirit. Chef Wong's personal touch, including storytelling about the sourcing of ingredients, enhances the cultural significance of the dining experience.

### Continuing the tradition
As Toshokan continues to evolve, Chef Wong remains committed to maintaining the restaurant's core values of quality, intimacy, and community engagement. The restaurant regularly updates its menu to reflect seasonal ingredients and new culinary inspirations, ensuring that each visit offers something fresh and exciting while honoring the traditional omakase experience.

## Community
### Community involvement
Toshokan actively engages with the local community by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and markets, supporting local businesses and promoting sustainability. The restaurant also participates in community events, showcasing its culinary offerings and fostering connections with Austin residents. This involvement not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the dining experience by emphasizing local flavors.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Toshokan as a hidden gem, a place where food lovers can gather to enjoy exquisite sushi in a cozy atmosphere. Diners often share their experiences, highlighting the personal touches that Chef Wong and his team provide, such as custom coasters and engaging conversations. This sense of belonging and shared experience contributes to the restaurant's positive reputation within the community.

### Events and gatherings
Toshokan hosts special events and gatherings that celebrate food and community. These include themed omakase nights and collaborations with local chefs, allowing guests to experience diverse culinary styles while enjoying the intimate setting. Such events not only attract new diners but also strengthen the bonds among regular patrons, fostering a sense of loyalty and community.

## Offerings
### What Toshokan offers
Toshokan specializes in an omakase dining experience, where guests are treated to a carefully curated multi-course meal that showcases the best of seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's intimate setting, with only six seats per seating, ensures personalized attention and a unique dining experience. Each meal is a journey through flavors, textures, and culinary artistry, making it a memorable occasion for all who dine there.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Toshokan is designed to be immersive and engaging. Guests are welcomed with a custom coaster featuring their name and are invited to choose their chopsticks and chopstick rests, adding a personal touch to the meal. Each course is thoughtfully presented, with Chef Wong explaining the origins and preparation of each dish, creating a narrative that enhances the overall experience.

### Events and packages
Toshokan offers various dining packages, including sake and cocktail pairings that complement the omakase menu. These pairings are carefully crafted to enhance the flavors of each dish, providing a holistic dining experience. Special occasions, such as anniversaries and birthdays, are celebrated with personalized touches, making each visit feel like a unique celebration.

### Facilities and features
- Intimate seating for six guests per seating
- Custom coasters for each diner
- Personalized chopstick selection
- Sake and cocktail pairings available
- Engaging storytelling by Chef Wong
- Unique ambiance with a speakeasy vibe

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Toshokan highlight the restaurant's exceptional food quality, intimate atmosphere, and attentive service. Guests appreciate the personalized experience, with many noting the chef's engaging storytelling and the opportunity to connect with fellow diners. However, some reviews mention the difficulty in securing reservations and the higher price point, which may not be suitable for all budgets.

### Compliments and strengths
- Exceptional quality of sushi and ingredients
- Intimate and engaging dining experience
- Personal touches, such as custom coasters
- Knowledgeable and friendly staff
- Unique ambiance that fosters community

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While many diners rave about the experience, some have expressed that certain dishes did not meet their high expectations, citing a desire for more creativity in the menu. Additionally, the price point is a common topic, with some guests feeling that the cost may not align with their typical dining budget.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Toshokan is celebrated for its unique approach to omakase dining, offering an intimate and engaging experience that resonates with many food enthusiasts. While there are some contrasting opinions regarding specific dishes and pricing, the majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment towards the restaurant's offerings and atmosphere.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Toshokan is located at 807 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78702, nestled within the vibrant neighborhood of East Austin. This area is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The restaurant's unique location within the Holey Moley Golf Club adds an element of fun and intrigue, inviting guests to explore the surrounding area before or after their dining experience. With its proximity to downtown Austin, Toshokan is easily accessible and offers a perfect starting point for a night out in the city.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Toshokan serve** Toshokan specializes in omakase-style Japanese cuisine, focusing on sushi.
**How many guests can dine at Toshokan at once** The restaurant accommodates a maximum of six guests per seating.
**Is it difficult to get a reservation at Toshokan** Yes, reservations often fill up quickly and require advance planning.
**What is the price range for dining at Toshokan** The omakase experience starts at $170 per person, excluding drinks.
**Does Toshokan offer special event packages** Yes, Toshokan provides personalized experiences for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.

## Visit Toshokan Today
Toshokan invites you to experience a unique omakase dining adventure in Austin, TX. With its intimate atmosphere, exceptional food quality, and engaging community spirit, Toshokan stands out as a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking an unforgettable meal, Toshokan promises an experience that will leave you with lasting memories. Secure your reservation today and discover the magic of this hidden culinary gem.

de2f4016-353a-41ee-8f93-6dc82434e751

Other than Saine being a beautiful human being and you can taste all the love and his sourcing of the finest ingredients for his bites . It's a highly informative and entertaining dinner . We have gone probably 4-5 times taking different guests with us . The ambiance has changed over the years outside (from bar hostel to Pershing east back to a mini golf spot) the bookshelf door but this inside has always been the same intimate vibe . Prepare a couple hours to enjoy drinks alongside your bites and be prepared to get to know your neighbors and saine ! So cute always

509e669d-4dbc-4249-a728-ba558348b497

We've managed to eat here twice in the past few years and by no stretch of imagine was it easy to get reservations, was a concerted group effort both times that required luck as much as anything else. Starting out, it's not cheap, and if you include drinks, assume you're basically spending a solid amount of money on a single meal, no sugar coating that. For us, this is a very rare, super special occasion type meal since dropping a decent portion of a mortgage payment on a dinner for 2 or 3 is not in our typical financial playbook. Beyond that though, we're foodie people, we plan vacations around food even. I cannot overstate how impressed we've been with toshokan both times we've been there both in the food and the staff and overall experience. I won't exaggerate, the first time we went was the best meal we've ever had, full stop. The intimacy of the restaurant, quality of the food and care and preparation, and the staff, are honestly something rarely seen anywhere. Every single dish was like the best version of anything like it we'd ever had. It such an awesome experience and both times we've left more or less speechless. It really is that good. Pictures are from both of our visits, I'll just stop it here, toshokan speaks for itself and if it's within your ability to try it, it's worth it.

f7d005bc-74ce-4210-b0f4-a8aef490bf15

Rating: 4.8/5 Toshokan is a speakeasy-style omakase spot hidden behind a bookshelf inside the Holey Moley Golf Club. Chef and owner Saine Wong designed the experience to be highly personal and intimate, with only two seatings per night and a maximum of six guests per seating. It's quite difficult to get a reservation, as they're snatched up quickly once released. We were super lucky that someone canceled their spot for the 8:30 PM seating the day after my husband's birthday. They start promptly, so plan to arrive early to allow time for parking. Each guest receives a custom coaster with their name on it to help find their seat--such a thoughtful touch. They also do an icebreaker so everyone, including the staff, can get to know one another a bit more. Before dining begins, you get to choose your own chopsticks and chopstick rest, which adds to the fun and personalized feel. Chef Saine is joined by two team members: one handles the drinks, and the other assists with food prep. The service is impeccable--after each course, they even wipe your plate clean if you spill soy sauce. We opted to split the sake/cocktail pairing ($115), and the bar manager (I believe her name was Maddie) kindly split each drink for us. Every cocktail was thoughtfully crafted to complement the sushi. I'm usually not a fan of sake, but the one they served was surprisingly good! They also offer individual drinks, so there's something for everyone. There's a lot of conversation and interaction throughout the meal, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Toward the end, Chef Saine offered additional add-ons before serenading us with a few songs on the guitar. He sang happy birthday to my husband and happy anniversary to the couple next to us, which was such a sweet gesture. We even had a mini karaoke session before wrapping up around 11 PM. The 14-course omakase costs $170 per person, and I truly believe it's worth it for the unique, immersive experience. Food Breakdown: The blue fin bird's nest-looking starter was delicious--one of my favorites. I loved the contrasting textures. I don't normally eat oysters, but I gave it a try. Can't say I loved it, but it wasn't bad. The salmon was from New Zealand. It was good, though I've had better. This was a deconstructed nigiri, and you could really taste the house-made rice and soy sauce. The tuna belly was solid, but nothing particularly unique. I don't usually eat sea bream, but this one was excellent! The hamachi was seasoned to taste like a spicy margarita and ended up being my favorite of the night. I'm not a fan of amberjack's texture, so this one was just okay for me. The spot prawn was good, but not as sweet as I expected. The scallop was plated on a green sauce that I absolutely loved--I could've licked the plate clean. I don't recall the exact market special, but I think it involved crab. The wagyu was, as expected, amazing. Chef even showed the certification of authenticity. The unagi was one of the best I've had. The bone marrow was served on toast. It was good but didn't stand out. The dessert was a rice-based ice cream that had subtle flavors and level of sweetness. It was just okay for me. I enjoyed the wasabi on top and think they should infuse it in the ice cream.

b3129446-3acd-4e05-a7d2-65d9c078f832

We love omakase and knew we had to try this speakeasy style spot as soon as we could get a reservation (this is definitely difficult to achieve)! First, the great things - the staff/chef. They're incredible and truly make the experience a little gathering of strangers-turned friends. They're great at engaging the 6 people who are gathered in conversation while presenting gorgeously assembled bites and sips. The chef is also a super swiftie having attended 13 of the global eras tour events who brings out his guitar at the end to do a little Taylor tribute - he even did my missed surprise song DBATC and I loved him for it! We chose to split the sake/cocktail pairing. We've never asked to do this (split the pours between two) and we were so glad they were able to accommodate. We aren't drinkers but love to do a pairing so splitting the pours was absolutely perfect. The pairings were incredible - highlights for me were the cocktails - the welcome cocktail (that's included with the meal) was perfection, the adult apple-tini was delicious, and the waygu fat washed old fashioned was sublime! I also really enjoyed the final dessert sake and dessert pairing! I kept going back bite and sip it was so good. The space/decor itself is meticulously curated and the little take home personalized coaster is fab. The line up and composition of bites was also fantastic. While some argue here with 4* because the bites are "basic" I found them to be classic selections of favored fish (expect an oyster, tuna, salmon, yellowtail, scallop- the sushi standards) meticulously assembled and dressed beautifully. We also said the dessert was our favorite omakase dessert to date. Absolutely fabulous and the additional melted Belgium chocolate on top chef's kiss. The ONLY meh moment for me was when we didn't get seated promptly at 6pm - we were the first of the 6 to arrive but we weren't that early. Of course austin traffic is terrible but if the invite says arrive by 6 or you'll miss the fun then plan accordingly. We didn't end up getting seated until after 6:15 so for people who make it a point to arrive early and given the warning that the fun will begin on time regardless, this was the only bummer of the evening. This is another great omakase spot in Austin and if you can get a reservation, definitely go! I purposefully never snap every plate for these experiences because you really have to be in the moment and just enjoy!

b606593b-1031-4686-b5dd-1b771606d67a

Doesn't get better than this. This was my second time at Toshokan but first at the new location. The food is absolutely incredible for starters that I wish it was easier to get a reservation...I would splurge on this meal at least once a month. The fact he doesn't have a Michelin star is beyond me. C'Mon Michelin folks! I love how he walks through where your fish was sourced and why. I had the cocktail pairing this time. I rarely get cocktails because they are typically too sugary. I mentioned that to the mixologist and she crafted my cocktails as I wished! The 8 person intimate setting is like no other experience I've had. Ugh, I love this place.

412e3080-8893-4898-8f46-14e21e1da18c

Cute omakase hidden behind a bookshelf inside Holey Moley, the golf course! Love the bookshelf idea since toshokan means library in Japanese. I heard that it was hard to get a reservation here and was actually on the waitlist. Luckily, I was able to snag a reservation. I had high expectations since it was listed as a recommended restaurant by Michelin and I'm a huge fan of sushi! That being said, I have tried many sushi places before and expected to be blown away. They have six seatings right in front of the chef and assistant so it is a very intimate atmosphere. It started off well, I really like the crunchy tuna dish. However, all the dishes following didn't really wow me. They are definitely great dishes but I felt that I can easily buy these from an ordinary sushi restaurant. Service was great and the chef engaged us in conversations. It's cool how he is a Swiftie and has a map showing all the concerts he's been to. He also pulled out his guitar, sang a Taylor Swift song, and sang the birthday song for me, which was super nice! I do want to note that we noticed the assistant dropping things a few times, so there was a lack of detail. There is an opportunity to add more dishes before dessert, which we are not obligated to do, but we still had to wait for others to finish eating, which I felt was unnecessary. I was underwhelmed with the mint ice cream. On the plus side, the wooden coasters in front are super cute. They have our names engraved on them, and we can take them home! It was a good experience but I feel like creativity in the dishes was lacking.

bea92b85-a623-446b-be68-d51393d2b3be

Meh. Toshokan is hidden behind a bookshelf inside Holey Moley, a golf course. I love the entrance that is hidden behind a bookshelf as toshokan in Japanese means library. The food is not bad, but there is nothing special. I don't think the price can be justified, for an omakase. Hospitality/service is great, however, the assistant dropped dishes a few times and it was a bit unprofessional. They gave us custom coasters with our names on them for us to take away. My favorite is the first dish. It was crunchy and fresh. The other 13 courses were ok. I was still hungry after the 14-course meal. The mint ice dessert was ok, you could probably get the ice cream from the grocery store. (I'm normally not a fan of mint). It was a good experience but probably wouldn't return. I think there are better omakases in Austin.

861ff767-3cab-439e-9d0d-2fd00fd2cab3

I have been trying to get in here for years and it was definitely worth the wait and the price. A 6 person Omakase is such a fun intimate experience! And wow the food is definitely going to deliver. These were some of the best bites I've had. I loved being able to ask questions about all the things. And to top this all off, I had a delicious Sake cocktail made my Nadia and we had ice cream with chocolate "raclette style." Thank you Chef, Nadia and team for a fantastic anniversary dinner!

9408ed90-2ec1-4104-85b0-42f943618d7c

Saine Wong, is the Executive Chef and Owner. Originally hails from Los Angeles and moved here during the pandemic. He curates the meal by talking you the journey of the ingredients and menu. He has a map with pins that highlight where what places he's been and another color of where the evenings omakase ingredients are from. The restaurant accommodates six people for an intimate experience. There's a sake pairing and/or sake & cocktail pairing you can add one. Chef Wong, interacts with everyone and it really was a fun experience. So glad I FINALLY got reservations. When they release openings, act fast as they fill up quickly! P.S. Bring your wallet, because you'll need it. Oh, he's a BIG Taylor Swift fan and travels to see her. You just might see him pull out a guitar and sing a song for you or with you.

a608467f-9aa9-4c55-b8d6-d251ca1fcc30

Such a fantastic dining experience. In a post-Covid world where I have anxiety being in crowded places, this was the perfect, intimate dining experience to enjoy superb sushi and unwind after a hectic week at work. The service was incredible and the staff and chef really make you feel like you're having dinner with close friends. I loved the cocktail and sake pairings. The sushi itself was delicious and a great variety of fish and flavors. I've been waiting to get a reservation here for over a year, so happy to finally get that experience. Would definitely return again and again.

Discover Toshokan in Austin, TX—an inviting restaurant offering unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere. Experience the best of local cuisine today.

Toshokan Restaurant in Austin, TX - Unique Local Dining Experience

Austin

Toshokan

Texas

Discover Toshokan in Austin, TX! Savor innovative cuisine in a cozy setting near downtown. Perfect for food lovers seeking a memorable meal. Book now!

Toshokan Restaurant in Austin, TX - Unique Dining Experience

Learn about Toshokan in Austin, TX! A charming restaurant offering creative dishes and a welcoming atmosphere near 4th St. Visit us for a delightful meal!

About Toshokan in Austin, TX - Cozy, Innovative Dining Spot

Opening hours for Toshokan, Austin, TX. Find opening hours for Toshokan, Austin, TX on 807 E 4th St.

Toshokan Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Toshokan

The Studio ATX

Taqueria La Esperanza

Porfirio's Tacos