If we’re paying attention to the food scene in the neighborhoods of Philly, we know that Fishtown is having a moment. New restaurants are opening at rapid-fire speed— many chef-driven, serious locations for people who care about what they put in their mouths. Think pizza, pasta, wine, falafel, beer, noodles, ice cream, craft cocktails, BBQ, world-class coffee, and much, much more. If you want it, you’ll find it in Fishtown. I, for one, am especially excited about the recent opening of Hiroki, a wooden jewel box Omakase concept attached to Wm. Mulherin’s Sons.
After entering through the heavy circular wooden door, you’ll be immediately transported: to a small, special space reminiscent of Japan’s Kyoto district. The attention to detail is ultra-apparent, starting with the Japanese techniques used to preserve the wooden entrance. Speaking of details, it would be sad to miss the experience of the heated toilet in the bathroom, which envelops like a warm hug.
The architects designed the space in a dynamic style, at the cross section of a traditional Kyoto townhouse and a modern restaurant featuring raw concrete, stone, bronze, teak, and local art.
At the helm and behind the gorgeous oak bar, you’ll find Hiroki Fujiyama—former head sushi chef at the 17-year-old Morimoto.
The 20-course set menu ($135 or $195 with sake pairing) begins with tiny seasonal Zenzai plates (amuse bouche), hyper-fresh fish, meat, vegetables, soup, and dessert (many items imported directly from Japan). Although the courses are small, you’ll be fed well. Think quality and quantity, but in that clean Japanese manner.
The wine list includes unique selections from around the globe, (heavy on Sake), but also includes Japanese whiskey, soju, and Japanese gin.
In the cozy seating, under the low lighting, and to the sound of a perfect playlist, you’ll find Hiroki to be the super sexy, high-end Japanese hideaway that Philadelphia’s been missing.
Hiroki
Corner of Lee & Master Streets
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
215.422.3222
Reservations
Images: Matthew Williams
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