Japanese fusion cuisine comes to Ballito

Japanese fusion cuisine comes to Ballito

Yori Oki is the newest addition to EAT STREET’s restaurant scene, adding unique Japanese fusion cuisine to the lineup of restaurants at Lifestyle Centre.

Priding themselves on flavour, precision and perfection, Yori Oki’s doors will open to the public on 25 June, offering an intimate, beautifully designed space in which to indulge in the flavours of Japan, on both a sensory and culinary level.

Owner-manager, Christos Konahos, explains that “Yori Oki is translated as “bigger than” or “greater than”. Although our space is small, our food, our ambience and our service embody the meaning of Yori Oki. We have worked really hard at perfecting the intricate details and our aim is to ensure that our patrons are immersed in a unique sensory experience that honours the Japanese culture and showcases our big flavours and generosity of spirit. Our biggest compliment is when our customers return for more.”

The intimate, 60-seater restaurant is itself a work of art, showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional design, and featuring a magnificent wall mural by local artist Jane Digby. The food and drinks only add to the visual appeal, each dish prepared and plated to perfection and signature cocktails creating a feast for the senses. Yori Oki offers traditional and signature sushi, claiming to take sushi to the next level, along with an extensive main menu focused on the food of Japan, including Dim Sum, Ramen, Mamezara (small dishes) and Robatayaki (flame-grilled skewers on special Bincho-tan coals). In addition, their small selection of main meals and desserts presents their unique take on the vibrant and distinctive flavours of contemporary Japanese fusion. An excellent wine list and extensive range of Japanese liquor and whiskies completes the experience.

According to Lifestyle Centre owner, Bruce Rencken, “We have been wanting to introduce a small restaurant between Attikos and Zaras for some time, but really wanted to secure the right offering for the space. Yori Oki is a fantastic new option for EAT STREET, adding the choice of a completely new cuisine and experience for our customers. The experience truly is both culinary and sensory, with the beautiful design and inspiring atmosphere creating an environment that is as much a part of the customer experience as the outstanding food. You simply have to try it!”