Old world glamour, sexy sophistication and seriously impressive food is what you’ll find behind the mysterious dark windows and solid front door at Victoria Street’s newbie, The ALIBI.

The all-star lineup reads like an Ocean’s Eleven cast: co-owners Dane and Alex Bouris (sons of Mark “you’re fired” Bouris); Chefs Adam Lane (Tetsuya, Nobu London, Sake) and Shimpei Hatanaka (Sushi.E., Sake); manager Will Smallbone (Bayswater Brasserie, The Boathouse on Blackwattle Bay) and mixologist Andrew Thomas (Merivale).

Get prepared to be dazzled by a beguiling wine and cocktail list featuring some 20 different rums and a solid cold sake selection. Don’t pass on the dangerously moreish ‘The Alibi’ signature concoction combining rum, caramel and citrus.

The real magic happens in the kitchen though. Take your time perusing the knockout mod-Jap menu showcasing refined technique and Mr Miyagi-style discipline.

Standout entrees include seared scallop and ocean trout tartare with amazu ponzu and white truffle oil, crunchy tempura prawns with spicy mayo and blue swimmer crab on betel leaf. Tuck your chopsticks into substantial dishes like braised pork belly with amazu cabbage and yuzu kosho daikon, and roasted blue eye cod in crustacean broth, leaving room for fried banana ‘spring rolls’ with milk chocolate and sweet red bean.

Say kon’nichiwa to Sydney’s sexiest Japanese.

The ALIBI
304 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst 2010
Dinner; Tuesday to Saturday 5pm – 12am
Lunch; coming soon