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KōL Izakhaya’s Mother’s Day menu is built around exactly what the occasion should be about: gathering, sharing and celebrating over really good food.
I recently attended a preview of the special Mother’s Day offering at KōL Izakhaya, Hyde Park, and it was one of those dining experiences that stays with you long after dessert. The atmosphere felt warm and intimate, the service was thoughtful, and every dish arriving at the table felt like an invitation to slow down and enjoy the moment together.
Taking centre stage is KōL Izakhaya’s signature robata grill cooking style, powered by Binchō-tan charcoal, a near-smokeless Japanese white charcoal known for the beautifully clean, rich flavour it imparts. You can genuinely taste the difference. There is a depth and smokiness to the dishes that never overwhelms, only enhances.
The Mother’s Day menu is designed family-style, which feels especially fitting for the occasion. Rather than individual plates, the table shares everything, encouraging conversation, passing plates around, and those spontaneous “you have to try this” moments that make meals memorable.
And there was plenty worth talking about.
The standout dishes for me were undoubtedly the beef short rib, the omakase sushi, and the matcha and black sesame ice cream. The beef short rib was deeply flavourful and incredibly tender, the kind of dish that quietly steals the show (It's a classy joint, but there was no way I wasn't licking my fingers after going hands-on with these ribs).
The sushi, as always, was fresh, delicate, and beautifully balanced, while the matcha ice cream delivered the perfect finish: earthy and creamy, with a subtle hint of ginger and not overly sweet. Honestly, every dish was good, but those three lingered in my mind long after the meal ended.
The family platter for four (R1,600) includes Omakase Sushi, Wagyu skewers, Miso-glazed Salmon, Beef Short Rib, Edamame Beans, Beef Gyoza, Steamed Japanese Rice, and dessert. Larger groups can opt for the platter for six (R2,685), which expands the feast with Black Cod Bites, thinly sliced beef rib for the table and Yuzu Ice Cream. Every mother is also welcomed with a complimentary drink and tea ceremony, which adds a thoughtful, celebratory touch to the experience.
If you are looking for a Mother’s Day lunch or dinner that feels elevated without losing that sense of comfort and connection, KōL Izakhaya at Hyde Park Corner delivers beautifully. It is less about a quick meal (we arrived at 7 and left at 10) and more about creating a shared experience around the table, exactly how celebrations should feel.
Reservations can be made via KōL Izakhaya bookings.
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