Ototo: Flinders Lane Underground Izakaya Style Dining

Below the Flinders Lane hustle and bustle in a subterranean space, Otōto – younger brother in Japanese – is an underground Izakaya-style dining experience, from the team behind the esteemed Akaiito restaurant, newly launched in Melbourne.

Otōto’s lush and beautiful interiors are a nod to the site’s historic existance as a colonial-era bank vault, incorporating exposed bluestone walls, heritage iron grating, large restored wooden columns and original ceiling beams. The decor is a modern fit-out with en pointe plush grey banquets that face a long black stone-topped bar and vintage pop culture posters and lantern lights adorning the walls. A glorious ruby red private dining booth commands attention. Symbolising the connection between two soulmates destined to find one another, that winds its way through both Akaiito and Otōto, is a sculptural red thread of fate overhead.

Highlights include:

• Mussel Escabeche, Wagyu Bresaola, Pickled Jalapeno, Toast
• Kingfish Sashimi on Salt Rock, Grapefruit, Daikon, Ponzu
• Cured Salmon, Apple Dust, Finger Lime, Ikura, Shiso Vinaigrette
• Robata Grilled Miso Chicken, Yuzu Kosho, Robata Lime
• Black Angus Short Rib, Kimchi, Pickled Radish, Bo Ssam Sauce
• Vegetarian Gyoza

A bespoke list of Asian-inspired curated cocktails include:

• A signature Nori martini
• Sparkling sake-based spritz with butter fat-washed gin
• Thai-style savoury concoctions
• Chinese tea-infused craft cocktails with floral notes and aromas

In addition to a minimal waste cocktail program, the beverage list will have an extensive range of local and international wine varietals, craft beers, sake and Japanese whisky.

Seating up to 60 guests, Otōto offers dining options from 5pm til late, Tuesday–Sunday.