Menu of Masuya in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Masuya, nestled in the basement at 12/14 O'Connell St in Sydney, offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that truly stands out in the CBD. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance evokes memories of Japan, enhanced by a staff that is both warm and highly attentive, many of whom hail directly from Japan. This adds a layer of cultural authenticity that shines through in both service and presentation.

The menu is a celebration of Japanese seafood mastery. The Sashimi Boat is a must-try, showcasing a pristine selection of salmon sashimi, kingfish carpaccio, and the exquisitely fresh chutoro. Each slice melts on the palate, a testament to the quality of the seafood sourced daily. The Sushi Tsukiji and the Toro Taku Roll demonstrate a thoughtful combination of traditional and contemporary flavors — the bluefin tuna belly roll paired with daikon radish pickles and Japanese spicy mayo strikes a perfect balance of creaminess and tang.

For those who enjoy tempura and karaage, the Nanban Chicken stands out with its deep-fried soy and mirin marinade, served alongside a house-made tartar sauce that cuts through the richness beautifully. The Hokkaido scallops, imported directly from Japan, are delicately fried and paired with tonkatsu sauce, delivering a satisfyingly crisp yet tender bite. Vegetable lovers should not overlook the veggie tempura or the stir-fried king mushroom and broccoli in garlic butter, which offer subtle but flavorful complements to the seafood-centric menu.

Masuya’s hot pots, such as the Sapporo Hotpot and seafood hot pot, provide comforting, umami-rich options that are perfect for sharing or savoring on colder evenings. Meanwhile, the Unagi Don and Beef Bento provide hearty, robust flavors if you’re seeking something substantial beyond sushi and sashimi.

Beverage options include a well-curated selection of sake and Japanese beer, though some customers have noted the absence of shochu, a traditional Japanese spirit often favored alongside sushi.

Customer experiences frequently praise not only the freshness and quality of the dishes but also the exemplary service. Staff members like Sean and Momo have been highlighted for their amiable, knowledgeable, and personalized care, elevating the meal into an event worth repeating. While most feedback is glowing, some note minor inconsistencies with tempura batter lightness and soft shell crab rolls, suggesting possible room for refinement in specific dishes.

Overall, Masuya excels at delivering a genuine Japanese seafood experience, bolstered by fresh ingredients, diverse menu highlights, and a welcoming atmosphere that transports diners straight to Japan. Whether indulging in finely sliced sashimi, savoring the warming hot pots, or enjoying meticulous sushi rolls, this restaurant is a jewel within Sydney’s Japanese dining scene.