Itō, the neighbourhood Izakaya in Surry Hills from ESCA Group, announces the launch of Itōmeshi, a three-part dining experience featuring celebrated chefs from across Australia.
Led by Italian-born Head Chef Erik Ortolani, Itō has become a dining destination on Sydney’s Crown Street since its opening in October of 2023, captivating diners with a menu that celebrates simplicity, heritage, and the finest of ingredients.
Itameshi is a culinary style originating from Japan that seamlessly combines the rich traditions of Japanese and Italian flavours. With Itōmeshi, Chef Ortolani and his team aim to further spotlight this dynamic blend of cuisines in a series of collaborative dinners featuring three renowned chefs.
First in the series is Andreas Papadakis on 4 June. With over 20 years experience, Andreas Papadakis is one of Melbourne’s most infamous Italian chefs and co-owner of a number of award-winning Italian restaurants across the city including iconic pasta bar Tipo 00 and Osteria Ilaria. Papadakis’ cooking style showcases a blend of tradition, expert technique and modern flourishes from his fine-dining toolkit.
On July 16, Adam Liston, a prominent figure in Adelaide’s dining scene, is renowned for his inventive take on Japanese cuisine. His cooking philosophy revolves around the use of fire to enhance flavours, reflecting in his dishes’ rustic yet refined nature. With successful ventures at Shobosho and multiple experiences across Asia, Liston continues to leave a mark in the culinary scene.
Ito (Feb24)-Credit Jiwon Kim-32
Concluding the series on 20 August, is master of pasta, Mitch Orr. One of Sydney’s most talented chefs who emphasises the use of high-quality regional produce, meats, and seafood. Orr’s dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients ensures that each dish reflects the essence of the region while pushing boundaries of flavour and technique.
In partnership with Four Pillars, the dishes will be expertly paired with a selection of bespoke cocktails, as each chef brings their background to create a delightful mash-up with Itō’s menu.
“The essence of Itō is a celebration of Japanese and Italian cuisine built on traditional principles and fuelled by fresh produce and bright flavours. Itōmeshi is an opportunity to elevate what we’ve built over the last six months and expand our offering creatively alongside such a talented lineup of chefs,”Erik Ortolani, Itō Head Chef.
“The Itōmeshi experience comes at an exciting time for us, as we’ve recently been honoured with a prestigious Good Food Chef Hat, reinforcing our dedication to culinary excellence and creativity. We’ve selected celebrated chefs from across the country, to work hand-in-hand with Erik and the hardworking Itō team to create a memorable experience for our guests. Itōmeshi promises another dimension of Itō, weaving culinary talents and traditions that will not disappoint,” Ibby Moubadder, Co-Founder and Executive Director at ESCA Group.
Itōmeshi offers guests the exciting opportunity to indulge in innovative dishes crafted by a diverse lineup of chefs, all while experiencing the atmosphere of Itō’s intimate dining space in the heart of Surry Hills.
Secure your tickets now to experience Itō’s exclusive chef series while seats last. Visit https://www.itorestaurant.com/whats-on to book your spot today.
