# Travel inspiration
Food & shopping
Great spots on the Rodezand in Rotterdam
Tucked away behind the doors of karaoke bar Duke of Tokyo in Rotterdam, Izakaya DUKI is a Japanese restaurant where small plates, cocktails and karaoke come together. On 3 October, the hotspot reopened with a new team and a revamped menu. The familiar izakaya concept remains, but there are also new additions to discover, including sushi.
An izakaya is the Japanese equivalent of a casual pub or eatery: an informal place to enjoy Japanese food and drinks together. At Izakaya DUKI, the focus is on sharing a relaxed meal, exploring different flavours and trying a variety of small dishes.
The restaurant is tucked away at the back of Duke of Tokyo. Step through the karaoke bar's striking entrance and you'll find yourself in a different world, complete with neon lights, a lively atmosphere and an open kitchen. From your table, you can watch the chefs at work as they prepare the dishes.
Following its reopening, Izakaya DUKI has introduced a revamped menu. The familiar concept of Japanese dishes designed for sharing remains at its heart, but sushi has now been added to the line-up. This means you can combine different Japanese flavours throughout your meal and discover new favourites together.
Prefer not to share, or would rather leave the choices to the chefs? DUKI has you covered. Alongside its sharing concept, the restaurant offers several set menus featuring multiple courses, allowing you to sit back and enjoy a selection of dishes from the kitchen.
Behind the revamped menu is a team of three friends and business partners from Zeeland, who have worked together for more than ten years. They have gained experience in a range of Japanese restaurants, from all-you-can-eat venues to fine dining establishments. Now, they're putting that experience into building a restaurant of their own, with each partner taking responsibility for the kitchen, front-of-house service or day-to-day operations. The wider team also includes people they have worked with before, as well as former colleagues they have trained themselves.
Izakaya DUKI is also a great spot for drinks. The menu features cocktails made with Japanese ingredients and flavours, alongside a selection of highballs. These popular Japanese mixed drinks combine whisky with a fizzy mixer, often soda water, and are surprisingly delicious.
Whether you're planning a leisurely dinner, keen to try a variety of small plates or simply in the mood for a cocktail in a unique setting, DUKI is a great place to start your evening. Want to end the night on a high note? Make sure to add a private karaoke room to your booking!
