Chef Hashimoto returns to Denver dining scene

When Miki Hashimoto closed Japon, an 18-year fixture in Wash Park, it was a shock to our sushi systems.

But the venerable owner, who was lured to the United States 26 years ago at age 15 by the movie “American Graffiti,” promised to return to Denver’s dining scene.

And he’s done just that with the recent opening of Tokio, a 60-seat ramen, binchotan grill and sushi spot in the burgeoning Prospect neighborhood at 2907 Huron St.

“Dining at Tokio is the most authentic Japanese experience one can have in Denver, and we are very excited to bring the unique flavor of real Japanese ramen, binchotan grilling and imported Hakushika sake and spirits to the Prospect neighborhood,” Hashimoto sad. “Tokio transports diners to a small house in Japan where only the freshest, highest quality delicacies are served, and we know that our patrons will taste the difference.”

During the media menu tasting Wednesday, Hashimoto and his crew prepared an array of goodies including a spicy B&B Roll, vegetarian ramen (with house made noodles) bacon-wrapped asparagus, shumai (dumplings) and yakitori chicken skewers from the binchotan (Japanese charcoal) grill.

Each course was paired with sake samplers – four tumblers of sake neatly served on a plate bearing each drink’s name. Tokio’s decor is industrial minimalistic, designed by Kanji Ueki, who also helped design the original Apple retail stores.

Downstairs is the hopping and happening space with sushi bar seating and a long community table made from a piece of ash that Hashimoto found in Longmont.

Upstairs is a more romantic and intimate surrounding with a sake bar. Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant, and reservations can be made at www.mytokio.com or by calling 720-639-2911.