It’s a Sunday; the weather is perfection and there’s a buzz of activity just beyond the roll-up floor-to-ceiling windows of Ototo, and we are about to eat some of the most delicious traditional-meets-modern Japanese brunch bites in the Southwest. 

Ototo musts:

• Start with the Watermelon Feta Salad
• Order the ‘Bagel’ & Lox
• Enjoy an al fresco brunch

Ototo — one of the most beloved sushi and Japanese eateries located on charming South Pearl Street — extends old-world Japanese dishes with contemporary twists in one of the most charming regions of Denver. Our BOSW team lucked out having visited Ototo on a Sunday while the South Pearl Street Farmers Market was in full swing. 

Eat and repeat

Much like it’s menu, Ototo boasts a harmonious blend of old world meets chic atmosphere, with its bricked-lined walls and Japanese art deco throughout, anchored by a robust and sophisticated cocktail bar. New visitors (like us) quickly get the impression that Ototo is a favorite place for Denver locals, sensing a familiarity between staff and patrons. And it’s easy to see why. 

In addition to Ototo’s cozy inside, it’s also equipped with al fresco dining, which we imagine many a Denverite takes advantage of when weather permits. The crown jewel of Ototo, however, is the menu. 

Taste of traditional Japan

We started our brunch with a refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad complete with spring mix, watermelon, feta cheese, shiso, mint, cucumber and red onion, topped with a balsamic glaze. Liz, our BOSW CEO, who has spent time in Japan was thrilled to spy Agedashi Tofu on the menu. This mixture of deep-fried tofu, Japanese eggplant and shishito peppers, lightly dusted with potato starch, served with daikon oroshi and grated ginger in a tempura sauce instantly brought Liz back to her travels throughout the islands.  

One of our absolute favorites from the brunch roster: ‘Bagel’ & Lox. Holy smokes! Or should we say holy smoked salmon? Ototo’s ‘bagel’ is a magic rice concoction reminiscent of a less, sticky, but equally substantial savory Rice Krispy Treat topped with cream cheese, lox, cucumber, red onion and capers.

Ototo details

Added to the brunch menu, a selection Kushi-Yakiand Tempura including Bacon Wraped Scallop, Kurobuta Sausage and more, as well as a variety of Ramen and Noodles. Ototo spirits include a wide variety of sake, wine, signature cocktails and special flights. To learn more about all menus and events at Ototo, visit ototoden.com.