Wagyu and the Tofu That Could Convert a Meat Lover: Meet Crows Nest’s New Japanese Izakaya
There is something special about a restaurant that makes you feel as though you have been welcomed into someone’s home for the evening. That is the feeling at Fukumimi, the new Japanese restaurant on Alexander Street in Crows Nest, where owner Mike L is bringing the relaxed, social spirit of an Izakaya to the neighbourhood.
Fukumimi means “fortunate ears” or “lucky ears” in Japanese, traditionally associated with good fortune, prosperity and wealth. It feels like a fitting name for a restaurant built around good food, good drinks and bringing people together and, after a meal here, it’s a place for fortunate tastebuds too.
“Fukumimi is Japanese cuisine, Izakaya style – a place for patrons to enjoy food with drinks,” Mike explains. It is an approach that suits Crows Nest perfectly, an area that has quickly become one of Sydney’s go-to destinations for Japanese food.
Mike has spent many years working in kitchens and wanted to create somewhere people could return to time and time again. His love of food and desire to create a welcoming neighbourhood restaurant is immediately apparent. He makes you feel hosted rather than simply served.
Fukumimi briefly opened before closing again for some unexpected renovations, but it has now returned with a refined menu. The restaurant has kept the traditional foundations of Japanese Izakaya food while allowing the chefs to introduce modern elements.
“We have kept the traditional Izakaya food, and our chefs have innovated dishes which combine modern-day elements to suit the new generation’s taste,” says Mike. “This allows us to deliver premium Japanese Izakaya food to the community.”
And the food is exceptional. The spicy tofu was a standout – soft and silky, with a gentle kick, crunchy peanuts and fresh coriander. The kingfish carpaccio was incredibly fresh and delicate, served with pickled onion, dashi vinegar, prawn oil and chives, while the Full Blood Wagyu practically melted in the mouth. The fried oysters were a must-try.
When asked what dishes he wants people to try, Mike’s answer is simple: “All of them!” His personal recommendations include the dry-aged sashimi, Full Blood Wagyu skewer, Wagyu slices with capsicum and peeled chilli peppers, and chawanmushi.
There is also beautiful yuzu cocktails and sake available, while the BYO policy makes Fukumimi particularly appealing. Corkage is kept small, rather than turning a bottle of wine into an expensive add-on.
For Mike, Crows Nest was an obvious choice. “Crows Nest has turned out to be one of the must-go areas for Japanese food in Sydney. We bring the Izakaya to the area for people who would love to enjoy the varieties of food and drinks.”
With its affordable menu, thoughtful cooking and genuinely welcoming atmosphere, Fukumimi feels like the kind of local restaurant you discover, settle into and return to again and again.
Story: Elissa Bramley
Fukumimi
📍 11-15 Alexander Street, Crows Nest NSW 2065
🗓️ Now Open
📞 Reserve a table via Instagram: @fukumimi_crowsnest
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