If you’re a foodie looking for some great Japanese restaurants in Melbourne, then you’ve come to the right place. With so many different options, it can be hard to narrow down your choices. That’s why we’ve created this list of our favourite Japanese restaurants in the region.
Ishizuka
Ishizuka is a Japanese restaurant in Melbourne that features Kaiseki cuisine. It is a Japanese philosophy of dining which focuses on the balance of taste and flavour, and is the pinnacle of haute cuisine.
The restaurant is a hidden gem in the CBD. In order to access it, you have to walk down a nondescript laneway and punch in a code into a buzzer. You then enter a world of beauty.
When you’re at Ishizuka, you can’t help but feel time slipping by. The interior is designed by Russell & George, a Melbourne-based firm that specializes in restaurant interiors.
On the menu, you’ll find a selection of dishes from across the region, including ramen, udon noodles, rice, fried chicken and sushi. To accompany your meal, you’ll also have the option to sample sake and wine.
In addition to the regular lunch and dinner menu, the restaurant offers a set menu each evening. This is a full-course meal featuring a grilled course, a steamed course and a sashimi course.
At Ishizuka, you’ll be served by the acclaimed Head chef Hitoshi Miyazawa. He has mastered the art of Japanese haute cuisine, and has worked at some of the most high-end restaurants in Japan.
Ichi Ni Na Na
Ichi Ni Na is a multi-level dining destination in Fitzroy. It’s one of Melbourne’s best Japanese restaurants.
The menu is made up of fresh sashimi and other traditional Japanese cuisine. There are also a range of multi-course dishes to choose from. One of the more popular items on the menu is wagyu beef tartare.
You can also take your pick from a plethora of fine beverages. Whether you’re after an icy cold beer or an elegant cocktail, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.
If you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience, try the chef’s table. This small room contains ten seats, which allows you to watch your chef prepare the dishes.
Other highlights include a large, open courtyard and an artful multi-level indoor-outdoor eatery. There’s even a bar featuring a robust drink list.
While the menu might not be as extensive as some of the other fine dining restaurants, Ichi Ni Na offers a few unique features that you’ll appreciate. For example, the sushi-inspired Ebi Mayo is a tasty snack that’s a fun way to start the evening.
Kazuki’s
Kazuki’s Cafe is an upscale Japanese restaurant. This stylish Melbourne restaurant serves traditional Japanese food with a modern twist. The menu focuses on wholesome food made with top quality produce. It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy a great meal with friends and family.
Chef Kazuki and his wife Saori combine Japanese flavours with Western techniques to create a mouthwatering tasting menu. There’s a 22-page wine selection to accompany your dishes. They also offer a special nine-course snack course.
Their signature brekky includes a grilled salmon fillet and creamy potato salad. For lunch, they offer prawn dumplings. Other items include agedashi tofu, pork katsu and nabe ryori, which is a traditional hot pot of thinly sliced vegetables.
For something a little different, try their sushi. They specialize in omakase, meaning that the chef prepares a variety of dishes for you in front of you. They also serve a traditional Japanese fried chicken and grilled eel.
In addition to traditional Japanese cuisine, Kazuki’s also offers Japanese-fusion dishes. The sushi bar features a range of dishes, including sashimi, octopus, pork belly and wagyu beef. Also, there’s an a la carte menu that changes regularly.
Mr Ramen San
Mr Ramen San is a Japanese restaurant serving Hakata ramen in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. The menu features housemade noodles, a selection of broths and seafood, vegan options, and even Sapporo beer on tap.
Located on Bourke Street in the Mid City Arcade, Mr Ramen San is a cosy Japanese eatery. The interior has a vintage feel and vintage posters on the walls. They serve Japanese ramen from Hakata, Japan, and the ingredients are all fresh and organic.
In addition to the traditional tonkotsu and Tsukemen broths, they offer a variety of vegetarian soups. Vegetarians can also opt for a broth that is based on mushrooms and herbs.
There are two vegan ramen options on the menu, as well as a vegetarian pork option. Vegetarian pork is made from a mixture of spam and deli meat, so it tastes like a bit of a mix.
With a number of locations throughout the city, Tonkotsu Ramen Cafe is a favourite among locals. It is renowned for its springy thin noodles and wood ear mushrooms.
Tetsujin’s Tokyo-Style Train
Tetsujin is a new Japanese food destination in Melbourne. It’s a neo-Tokyo style restaurant that’s perfect for an event, or for a quick bite to eat. It offers izakaya-style dishes, as well as a sushi train.
The restaurant is separated into three sections: the sushi train, the Japanese BBQ section, and the bar area. Architects Eat designed the space with a palette of light colors.
Sushi trains are a cultural must-see for any traveler to Japan. The trains offer sushi and drinks, including shochu, sake, and regular wine. Whether you’re vegan or gluten-free, the trains cater to your needs.
The sushi train has a dynamic timber structure that echoes the architectural heroes of Japan. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to enjoy the view of the city while you eat.
The Tetsujin bar is located on the fourth floor of Emporium Melbourne. The restaurant has a bar area, a robata grill, and a Japanese barbecue. There are several sashimi, noodle, and ramen dishes available. Drinks include sake, microbrew beer, and wines.
Unlike some of the other sushi restaurants in Melbourne, Tetsujin doesn’t have a kid’s menu. Instead, it’s designed for adults. However, there are booths for families.
Yakimono
Yakimono is a Japanese inspired eating house which opened recently in Melbourne. It features a large central kitchen and a stylish and playful decor. The restaurant is located on 80 Collins Street in the fashion district.
The restaurant is designed to evoke the vibrancy and energy of Tokyo. Its menu is a modern take on Japanese fine dining.
Yakimono has a large open kitchen, as well as a bar area. There is also a private dining room which is ideal for entertaining friends or family.
Located next door to Society, the restaurant is an inner-city offering from Chris Lucas. He is the creator of LUCAS, a family of restaurants that are known for their excellent food and drinks. This establishment is a new one on the block and is based on the idea of creating a restaurant which combines elements of traditional Japanese cooking with a modern twist.
In order to create a unique experience, the Yakimono menu will draw upon the chef’s love of Japan. For example, the chirashi sushi is plated as a work of art. Using premium sashimi, the bowl is healthy, yet delicious.
Gogyo
Japanese restaurants are popular in Melbourne, especially during the winter months. Although the cuisine doesn’t have the same cultural resonance as Italian, Japanese food remains one of the best eats in town.
The most important aspect of any Japanese restaurant is the service. They should also offer a variety of dishes. Some of the most popular options include sushi and ramen.
In addition, you should make sure to try the omakase. This is where the chef selects what you will enjoy. Ideally, you should order something new. You should always order the best quality ingredients.
Another reason to go to a Japanese restaurant is the atmosphere. If you can find a place with arched windows, painted brick walls, or a secluded courtyard, you’ll have the perfect setting for an enjoyable meal.
For an omakase experience, Koichi Minamishima is your best bet. His 30 years of experience in the field means you’ll have a chance to enjoy some of the finest sashimi in Melbourne.
Another excellent Japanese restaurant in Melbourne is Ishizuka. The menu changes regularly, and it features eleven revolving dishes. There are only sixteen diners per evening, so you won’t have to wait long.
Warabi
When you’re looking for a Japanese restaurant in Melbourne, there are several options to choose from. From traditional to new-style dishes, you can find an authentic experience to match your tastes.
Nobu in Crown is one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in Melbourne. This fine-dining venue serves exquisite dishes and cocktails, bringing a nightclub atmosphere to the Japanese cuisine. It is located in the basement of the Crown Hotel.
Ichi Ni Na Na is another Japanese restaurant in Melbourne. The restaurant’s menu offers a wide variety of sushi and sashimi. They also offer a selection of wine and sake. In addition to the bar, you’ll find an indoor dining area and a rooftop bar.
Akita in North Melbourne is a good choice for a budget meal. The restaurant offers single servings of sashimi and flavourful hot pots. You can also take advantage of their lunch and dinner set menus.
Tokyo Tina is the latest trendy Japanese eatery in Chapel Street. Nic Coulter and Paul Nguyen have created a cosmopolitan Japanese restaurant, with a bar and two eating areas.
