Hikaru Japanese Courtyard Restaurant — Restaurant in Sydney

Very strange and unpleasant experience. When seated the waiter directed us inside, only to find there is no table for us as the other couple in front of us took the 4 pax table. The waiter probably expected us to split the table ourselves. Anyway he came back and split the table. Fine, we thought they were just busy.

The aircon blow directly on my head and I asked one of the waitress if they could adjust this. She manually lifted the fan lever up without saying a word. ????

The aircon also seems to randomly blow black stuff on my table...???

Soon after we placed our order and their order system is weird as well and order history would disappear overtime. We were then served some edamame which we didn't order but because they served in a split second we didn't have a chance to ask if it's complementary or what. Every time we tried to call a waiter they avoided us. Long time after we finally got their attention waving hands. This turns out to be the next tables order. No apology and they just took the dish back.

We had our second and third dish and then had been waiting for a while for our first dish (shashimu sushi combo). We tried to pay what we had and leave because it is getting ridiculous for over an hour wait for a dish that doesn't require cooking (the table next to us had already finished their meal). Again no apology and they just said it's coming now, and they just laughed and asked if we wanted this as takeaway??? When we pay there is still no single apology.

The food was just edible, except the salmon was very fishy and the rice was way too sweet. I have no idea why they got 4 starts and a full...

An absolute standout in Newtown! Hikaru is everything you could want in a Japanese restaurant authentic, welcoming, and absolutely delicious. From the moment you step in, the space feels calm and thoughtfully designed, with a warm, minimalist vibe that instantly makes you feel at ease.

The food, though, is the true highlight. Every single dish we tried was outstanding. The sashimi was incredibly fresh and sliced to perfection, with that melt in your mouth quality you only get at truly top-tier spots. Their sushi rolls were creative but balanced not overdone letting the fresh ingredients shine. The ramen had such a deep, rich broth with tender chashu and perfectly cooked noodles. We also had the karaage chicken and agedashi tofu both crispy, flavourful, and comforting in the best way.

It’s clear the chefs here take great pride in what they serve. The attention to detail in both presentation and taste was impressive. Portion sizes were generous, and everything came out beautifully plated.

Service was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Our server gave thoughtful recommendations and explained the menu without rushing us, which made the experience even better.

If you're in Newtown and love Japanese food, Hikaru is a must-visit. Whether you're after a casual weeknight dinner or a special night out, this place delivers on every level. Already planning...

Location: Quite hidden off on the side of a small walk way from King Street. Food Quality: I usually judge the quality of the restaurant based on the taste and presentation of a Japanese restaurant's Agedashi tofu! And this place did not disappoint. My friends and I all ordered a variety of dishes off their menu and nothing disappointed us. The flavours were all there and you could definitely taste the quality and perfect complexity of the dishes. Service: A bit slow and brought our entrees after our mains in which was slightly strange. But, might have been because it was a busy night. Environment: Slightly small, but the waitresses never forgot us and were very attentive. Interesting fact: No split bills.

There was a dessert that was oddly sweet, but I can't recall the name of that dish that my friend ordered (will update once I find out). There was a seafood noodle dish that was more of an Italian taste than Japanese - odd, but still great taste and presentation.

OVERALL: Would recommend because the flavours of their dishes are great and not overwhelming. Definitely a good change up from the sushi-trains in Newtown and very...