Brian Lee, Jamie Kang open Chako Japanese restaurant on Ocean St

Positioned on the Sunshine Coast’s main entertainment strip, the hottest new restaurant is already setting hearts on fire with its unique spin on Japanese cuisine. Take a look inside:

Lovers of Japanese food are rejoicing after the grand opening of Ocean Street’s latest addition, which offers customers a modern twist on traditional cuisine.

Chako is a charcoal-inspired casual fine dining experience where patrons can watch their meals being cooked on an open grill.

Owners Brian Lee and Jamie Kang were “very excited” to open the doors of their latest business venture on Thursday (October 21), and said the response from their first customers was one of amazement.

Brian Lee (left) and Jamie Kang opened Chako on Ocean Street.

“The customers say they have never seen this quality of Japanese food,” Mr Lee said.

“I have a passion and love seeing the customer’s reaction when they taste the food.”

After being fully booked on their first three nights of business, Mr Lee hoped his restaurant would become an “iconic” place to indulge in top-tier Japanese food.

He said the Sunshine Coast was desperate for this type of elevated cuisine.

“There’s lots of sushi places and Asian fusion, but if you want to have a nice date or a nice occasion at a nice modern Japanese restaurant, then come visit us at Chako,” he said.

“The customers were really happy with the venue and with the customer service and food, so it was perfect.”

Mr Lee also founded the popular Uncle Don restaurant in Brisbane, but said Chako was a whole new ball game.

“Chako shares heritage with Honto restaurant in Fortitude Valley where Mr Kang was head chef,” Ms Lee said.

The Chako team at Ocean Street’s newest dining option.

The Chako team includes 15 staff members so far, including highly experienced chefs, waitstaff and bartenders.

Mr Lee said it took six months to get the store renovated and ready for opening day, with a focus on creating a warm, inviting and contemporary space.

Chako on Ocean Street has just opened and was already fully booked out on the first three nights.

As for the menu, Chako delivers a variety of seafood and meats as well as vegetarian options, with a consistent “charcoal theme” running through the meal and drink options.

Some of the chargrilled items include Wagyu beef, salmon and tooth fish, while those who prefer raw Japanese food won’t be disappointed either.

Chako is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm until late and can be found at Shop 1, 22-24 Ocean St, Maroochydore.

“I’m planning to expand to longer trading hours like lunch time,” Mr Lee said.

Originally published as Brian Lee, Jamie Kang open Chako Japanese restaurant on Ocean St