Oishii Japanese Thai | Wine Country’s Unique Asian Fusion
Nestled in the Roche Estate complex on Broke Road in Pokolbin, Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant stands out as a culinary gem in the Hunter Valley. As the only Asian restaurant within a winery in the region - and possibly in all of Australia - Oishii has delighted locals and visitors alike since 2002.
The restaurant's story began with Bo Lorchaiwet, who migrated from Thailand to Australia in 1992. Bo opened her first restaurant on Darby Street in Newcastle in 1994, and a year later, her 14-year-old son Patrick Boonsong joined her in the family business. Over the years, the family have expanded their restaurant portfolio across various locations, including Newcastle, Hamilton, Nelson Bay, Terrigal, and Swansea. Inspired by Patrick's uncle's passion for Japanese cuisine, the family ventured into offering both Thai and Japanese dishes.
"Most of the chefs at Japanese restaurants tend to be Thai. In Thailand, there is a great diversity of cuisine, and our chefs learn a broad range of styles as a result. We think that Thai chefs make better Japanese food! Not so bland," jokes Patrick.
The opportunity to open Oishii in the Hunter Valley came via Lisa McGuigan, a regular customer at their Newcastle restaurant. She invited the family to establish Oishii in what was then the Tempus Two Winery, now part of Roche Estate. Patrick recalls the challenging early days: "When we first opened in 2002, it was on a dirt road and very dusty. We stayed open seven days per week even back then. Often there were only two or three tables at night, and we wondered if we had done the right thing. Within two years, we knew it was going to be successful."
Today, Oishii overlooks the architecturally designed amphitheatre and vineyards of Roche Estate, offering a relaxed and affordable dining experience. The restaurant's menu has remained largely consistent since its opening, with chef Jantee Dangsopa leading the kitchen since 2008. Signature dishes include Teppan Yaki Beef, Panang Duck Curry, Gyoza, Massaman Beef Curry, and freshly made vegetarian Spring Rolls - a far cry from the mass-produced versions found in many Asian restaurants. Oishii caters to various dietary needs, with Patrick noting that 30% of their customers identify as gluten intolerant or celiac.
"We've worked hard to produce a menu that delivers maximum flavour without gluten," he explains.
"A lot of the sauces used in Asian cooking contain gluten. We have had to create our own special sauces in-house to be able to give people what they need. Most of our signature dishes are gluten-free."
The restaurant's success is attributed to consistency in both flavour and service. Open from 11:30am to 9:30am daily, Oishii is one of the few establishments in the area serving lunch and dinner seven days a week. This reliability has made it a go-to spot for locals, visitors, and even taxi drivers who know they can always find a delicious meal!
The dining space features minimalist interiors with a Thai-themed dining room, complemented by an outdoor terrace perfect for al fresco dining while enjoying views of the surrounding vineyards. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly meal, a group dining experience, or a quick bite between wine tastings, Oishii offers a diverse menu designed to please every palate.
Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant provides an experience that seamlessly blends Thai and Japanese cuisines in a picturesque winery setting for those seeking a unique dining alternative in the Hunter Valley. To explore their menu or make a reservation, visit www.oishii.com.au or call 4998 7051.
NOW OPEN IN CESSNOCK!
If you love Oishii, you will love the newly opened sister-restaurant OCHA! Situated within the Railway Hotel in Cessnock, OCHA promises diners a culinary journey that spans two of Asia's most celebrated cuisines. For more information, bookings, or to order online visit www.railwayhotelcessnock.com.au.
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