Chaco Bar

Darlinghurst's much-loved ramen joint Chaco Bar had been serving up authentic Japanese fare to Sydneysiders for over five years when it decided to expand into Potts Point. The new space is a dedicated yakitori joint based in the old Jimmy Liks space.

Owner Keita Abe had been hoping to focus more on both his ramen and yakitori offerings — so chose to split the concepts altogether. Abe snatched up the Victoria Street space because it was already approved to have a charcoal grill, which can be a feat to obtain as it requires specific ventilation.

At the new Potts Point Chaco Bar, you can expect a similar Fukuoka-inspired yakitori offering to what was on offer in Darlo. Think skewers of organic pork belly, spicy lamb shoulder, wagyu tongue, miso eggplant and ponzu okra; plus, all parts of the chicken, including thigh, wing, heart, tail and gizzards. An omakase menu is also up for grabs.

Expect big things from the new restaurant's fit-out, too, which was looked after by designer Matt Darwon — his work can also be seen inside Crown Street's Toko and at Clayton Wells' Automata. It' all, of course, centres on a robata grill and a woodfired stove, with all of the fiery cooking on display from an open kitchen.

As far as the existing Darlinghurst location is concerned, it's now dubbed Chaco Ramen and only focuses on the namesake dish.

Images: Cassandra Hannagan

You'll find Chaco Bar in our list of the best degustations in Sydney. Check out the full list here.