Oi Izakaya

Oi Izakaya is a Japanese restaurant and whisky bar in Burleigh Heads, offering an informal take on the traditional izakaya. The format centres on food designed for sharing, drinks enjoyed in company and a menu that balances familiar Japanese cooking with modern Asian ideas.

The food covers the broad izakaya style, from small snacks and dumplings to sushi, sashimi and chef-selected menus. Some dishes draw on established Japanese traditions, while others take a more playful direction. The menu changes over time, with specials and omakase selections adding variety for returning diners.

Service follows the social rhythm of an izakaya, with dishes arriving as they are prepared rather than necessarily appearing all at once. That makes the venue a natural fit for a relaxed meal built around several plates, shared conversation and drinks. The overall approach is fine-casual, with a sense of humour and an Australian touch alongside Japanese references.

The drinks list includes sake, umeshu, Japanese-inspired cocktails, highballs and beer, with classic cocktails also available on request. Whisky is a central part of the bar, with Japanese bottles joined by selections from Scotland, the United States, Ireland and Australia. Whisky flights provide a way to compare different pours without committing to a single style.

Located at Shops 4 to 6 on James Street, Oi Izakaya adds a drinks-led Japanese dining option to Burleigh Heads and the wider Gold Coast. The setting suits casual dinners, social catch-ups and occasions where food and the bar carry equal importance. A table can also work for diners who prefer to focus on Japanese spirits, cocktails or whisky alongside a smaller selection of snacks.