The 47 best omakase experiences in Melbourne

Very disappointing experience at Kisumé. I was questioning myself whether only chef table can be called “customer” in this restaurant. The service felt rushed and dismissive — staff asked for feedback but walked away before I could answer more. My dishes were served in a strange order (starter tofu came last). The sashimi set was not good — the tuna slices were broken and falling apart. The lobster maki was overloaded with fried ingredients and heavy sauce, making the lobster flavor disappear. Even the bites looked cheap and poorly plated. For a so-called fine dining restaurant, the quality of both food and service was unacceptable. I will not return and would not recommend this place.

Beautiful Japanese restaurant with a refined vibe. We did the sake tasting experience over dinner and it was fantastic. I’m vegetarian and was really impressed with the dedicated veg menu—thoughtful, seasonal, and full of flavour (not just an afterthought). Every dish was beautifully presented and delicious. There’s plenty of space, the central location is super convenient, and the room comfortably accommodated our group. Staff were warm and knowledgeable; service was attentive without being intrusive, and everything ran like clockwork. Overall: superb food, great sake pairings, and hospitality to match. Highly recommend—especially if you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly fine dining option in the CBD.

Such an amazing day at Kisume for the sushi masterclass with Chef Toaki Kyo. We enjoyed a mixture of sushi we assembled ourselves and many other gorgegous dishes from an exceptional kitchen. The non alcoholic pairing was superb, the Nashibo (Nashi, kiwi, kaffir lime and soda) was especially good. Recommended!

Having attended Kisumé on a few occasions now, the dining experience is always exceptional. However in saying that, if you can get there earlier in evening when they're less busy, your experience will be improved. The food and drink options are incredible, with a diverse menu of dishes all match from scratch. Great for date nights and intimate dining experiences.

Dined at Kisumé on a Friday night, booking was 1930. Service was great, staff were friendly, food was served in perfect timing. Food was delicious, we ordered the chefs menu selection as well as some starters, such as the miso soup, edamame, Angus beef taru taru tart and 16piece sashimi. Everything was delicious! Highly recommend the beef tart and the edamame, so delicious. Great selection of cold sake and delicious cocktails.

We booked the Chefs Table experience and we’re not disappointed. Seated in a group of 12 around a counter in a private room, we enjoyed a huge 18 course epic journey of Japanese cuisine. The whole evening felt authentic yet modern and it was a joy to watch the well choreographed team of chefs and wait staff seamlessly keep it all moving along so well. Being our wedding anniversary, we very much appreciated the surprise extra anniversary dessert at the end!

Came here for our first wedding anniversary and we loved it! The price was decent as compared to a lot of other omakase/jap fine dining places and the quality was great. We had the chef's selection set menu. What sets them apart is their attention to detail and great service. Example, cheese cloth around their lemon for the oysters so there's no seeds falling into the food - minor details that get missed, they haven't! They even got a chocolate with 'Happy Anniversary' lettered on our dessert. Overall what a lovely night we had. Thanks for hosting us!

Had the chance to try their omakase recently and it was such a memorable experience! 🍣✨ Every dish was beautifully prepared and thoughtfully presented - each course felt like a journey of flavours 😋 The service was excellent, and the attention to detail along with the explanation of each dish really added to the experience 😊 It is a great spot for a special night out. The price is reasonable for the quality and creativity offered. Definitely recommend if you are looking to treat yourself to an authentic Japanese omakase in Melbourne 😋

Everything about our experience was perfect. The food was beautifully prepared, exceptionally fresh, and a true delight to enjoy. It made for a wonderful and memorable evening, and I very much look forward to visiting again.

Best omakase you can find in Melbourne. Pro tip: book the sushi counter! Also, please don’t ask for soy sauce or wasabi because each nigiri is perfectly seasoned 👍 Price is $$$$ but cheaper than a plane ticket to Japan

Minamishima is truly a standout omakase experience in Melbourne. The interior feels warm and intimate while the sleek, modern exterior sets the tone for a special night. The staff are incredibly attentive—they notice even the smallest details, which makes the service feel personal and thoughtful. I’ve been lucky enough to try six different omakase restaurants this winter, and Minamishima has earned a spot in my top 5. The seasonal ingredients, creativity, and flawless execution make every dish worth savoring and every cent well spent. If you love sushi or omakase, this is one of those restaurants you have to try at least once. Highly recommend!

Experience of a lifetime at Minamishima. Everything from start to finish was perfect. Service was above and beyond, I've never been treated so well before. The food was delicious - as expected.

Ordered: 🍣 Omakase ($295.00) + ✨ signature tuna belly wrapped in gold foil (4 pcs for $100.00) Including tea, this was just over $350.00 for my portion. REVIEW: To establish some credibility, I've been to at least 8 omakases around Melbourne over the years. I found that Minamishima was closely tied to the traditional style and presentation. Focused more on the quality of food, there wasn't much modern creativity. 💖 Of the 19 dishes we had, my favourite was the starter dish. Snow crab dumpling with turnip sauce was a fragile, delicate dish that was beautifully executed. When I can taste the subtle sweetness of the crab, I am a happy gal. 🫚 Their pickled ginger is also the strongest I've ever had. I'm talking about a potency about where one chunk is enough to clear you, your kid & your grandkid's sinuses for the rest of their lives. Needless to say, 19 dishes had me rolling out the door. Every dish was executed to perfection. What really differentiates omakases and leaves a lingering impression (for me) is the education that comes behind it. E.g. What considerations did the chef put into while forming the rice? Tell me how much about the elements behind these dishes in more detail. Unfortunately, while the chefs do hand the sushi to you - that's where the introduction starts and ends. ☎️ Also the pain of calling to make a booking, at a certain time, with no obvious queue is a barrier for me. For all these reasons and taking into account the hefty price... Minamishima fell short of my expectations.

First for atmosphere very noisy and not a very pleasant space for omakase . For the service , the waitstaff named Emily is very rude and unprofessional, we came 30 mins early and she just said u can’t go inside and there is no seats for waiting areas and the dinner will start 6 hour straight then close the door with loud tones. Very unprofessional. (As it could explain in better and friendly tone) . Also the foods are served very slow as they took not only counter seating but also back tables with the same menus and most of the people come not in one time just arrived randomly and the chef just busy doing those (as most premium omakase set a specific time and seating time ) to keep up the standard and to pay more attentions to the guests on counter. For the food, is ok but it could be better with 300 charged and for the tap water must pay 10 dollars per person. Overall experience is unpleasant and not worth the money for experience.

My boyfriend and I had a wonderful dining experience at Ishizuka. The food was beautifully presented and tasted just as good as it looked. Each dish felt like a thoughtful work of art, with delicate flavors and a beautiful sense of balance. The pacing between courses was perfect, enough time to appreciate each one without feeling rushed. I highly recommend the non-alcoholic drink pairing, it elevated each course and was absolutely worth it. We will definitely be returning!! One small note: we arrived less than 10 minutes early, as did a few others, and it felt a bit awkward having to stand and wait to be seated. It would be great if there were a more welcoming protocol for early arrivals.

A great experience from the moment you walk in. Everything from the food, presentation and service was amazing. The Kaiseki menu was a perfect amount of food with each dish carefully prepared and explained upon serving. Would highly recommend for a special occasion.

Great experience with an exceptionally well-curated collection of dishes. Although I’ve been to fine dining restaurants of different cuisines around the world, I’d still place Ishizuka at the very top after what I experienced last night. If you enjoy Japanese omakase, this is the place you’ll want to visit in Melbourne.

We were here six years ago and were impressed by the experience, this place continues to deliver great food and great service. Their seasonal menu is packed with interesting dishes that includes oyster, Otoro sushi, caviar, tempura, crab meat, A5 wagyu beef from Kumamoto, green lip abalone (for those chose not to have beef), Murray cod, duck and dessert. They have a good wine and sake selection, we went with two types of sake that complement the dishes well. They are using a bit more local ingredients like seafood but still getting some top products from Japan (like beef and blue fin tuna) There’re only 12 counter seats, the chef and team cook right in front of us so it’s really enjoyable to see how it’s all done. The service is attentive and polite, really feel pampered. It’s advisable to be slightly early as to enjoy the whole experience, there’s a nice waiting area. We’ll be back for the next season’s menu.

Cannot rate this place highly enough. The food was so surprising and unique. The chefs are a joy to watch and the atmosphere is so exclusive. Highly recommended to anyone looking for amazing Japanese food in Melbourne.

Loved the Kaiseki winter menu at Ishizuka. The miso soup with grilled mochi was my favourite; warm and full of flavour, perfect for the winter weather. The wagyu was also amazing.

Came for the kichi kichi special collab. Very well organised and presented. Love the drinks pairings and wished for more

I honestly cannot rate this place highly enough. From the food to the service, every detail was a 10/10. The flavours were incredible—each dish felt like a perfect infusion of taste and creativity. Our waiter, Jamie, went above and beyond, making the whole experience so much fun and truly memorable. We loved it so much that we went back again before heading out the following Saturday—that’s how good it was! The combination of beautiful food, exceptional service, and a warm atmosphere made this an outstanding experience. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for something truly special. Absolutely beautiful.

Took my wife here as I thought it would be something special to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary . It did NOT live up to expectations at all. We had the Melbourne Omakase option. Food was of high quality, great tastes, well presented and a nice variety. The servers who presented the meal gave a brief explanation of what we were served. Some servers seemed to rush this so a little hard to comprehend. We were expecting more dishes so when they said ‘your final dish’ we were extremely disappointed. Cost was over $470au so seriously would’ve like better value. Service in general was ok. Just seemed like everyone was in a rush with cutlery and other items being dropped. This tended to make the whole experience seem like they wanted you in and out as quickly as possible. The atmosphere from where we were seated was just ok. We were sat in a corner with a view to outside. Sadly my view consisted of people smoking and butting their cigarette on the ground near the windows. I found this a little off putting whilst trying to enjoy my meal. Sadly I can’t recommend Nobu as a return visit, for us it was a disappointment.

Our server was amazing. He helped us order and put together with the chef a truly delicious menu. He was so kind and explained every dish so well. Truly unforgettable experience. My family and I had an amazing time. Our favourite dish was the scampi, pictured below.

The restaurant as expected is very pretentious and looks to have a large number of expensive wine and sake choices, ideal for business paid meals. The staff were friendly enough, but fit the pretentious vibe too. We ordered cocktails and said yes to still water over sparkling water, so most of this review is for the $16.50 bottle of water we were charged for while tricking us into not going for tap water which they served us later. The cocktails were good enough, but not great and not worth the $30 per cocktail drink. It was all fine, I just can’t condone a restaurant needing to trick customers out of their money.

My partner and I visited for a date night on a Wednesday, expecting a smooth experience during a less busy time. Unfortunately, the evening was marked by disorganized and inconsistent service. ​We were attended to by four different staff members, which led to a complete lack of continuity in our service. Drink orders arrived five minutes apart, which was a minor inconvenience. However, the main courses were delivered with over a 30-minute gap. At one point, we had to ask if the second dish had been forgotten, only to be told it was "coming." This significant delay was puzzling, especially since the restaurant had plenty of empty tables. Also you'd expect when there's only two people at a table they would have their dish together. ​Furthermore, the presentation of the food was underwhelming. The garnish on the dish was mediocre at best, especially considering the high price point. I've had more visually appealing and well-executed dishes for less than half the cost.

Very disappointing meal. We had 8 dishes between us beautifully presented unfortunately only two were delicious. Black cod miso too raw for a cooked fish dish, Scollops with wasabi pepper is a very boring stir fry with 5 scollops, a gravy sauce and a plate full of mushie broccoli and hard carrots .Octopus sashimi was like chewing gum .ceviche had no flavour and the sticky pork was the biggest disappointment . The exceptions were - the whiting and salt n pepper calamari , they were exquisite and the staff and service excellent .

Wow such an elegant dining experience here. The attention to detail from the staff is next level and the dining area is intimate and beautiful. Service was fast despite it being busy and their menu is huge, we ordered a selection of different dishes including the salmon sashimi, tuna crispy rice, salt and pepper squid, teriyaki chicken, pork belly and creamy spicy prawns. The fish was so fresh and all of the meat was cooked to perfection. Obviously the prices are on the higher side but well worth it in my opinion if you’re looking for a quality dining experience and a high end feel. Definitely recommend pre booking as they get super busy so might take a while to get a table if you are planning to walk in. So grateful to have been able to come here for mine and my partners anniversary and I look forward to returning in the future. Thanks Nobu!

Had the omakase at table. The nigiri was most definitely the highlight, the fish was excellent, any seasoning was minimal but complemented the fish perfectly. However unfortunately I did find the rest of the dishes underwhelming. The portions were tiny, though I should have expected this due to it being an omakase menu. I did substitute my Wagyu sirloin for toothfish - but the Wagyu dish similarly was very small- like 4-5 slices of beef accompanied by 3 small potato wedges. The toothfish had a lovely texture and flavour. I felt that the flavour of the fried nori didn't really work- I found it bland, almost stale. The initial sashimi was good but not outstanding, and I felt the prawn could have been more tender. I enjoyed the dessert, I think the Vegemite was fun and paired with the icecream well - but again, it didn't feel substantial. Ultimately, the accompanying dishes felt like somewhat disappointing support characters to the nigiri. Perhaps other season's menus are better. I'm not sure if I will visit again, but if I did, I'd consider ordering ala carte instead, with a focus on the nigiri/sushi. The restaurant setting and service was excellent.

We came to Komeyui to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday and we were well looked after. The service was absolutely amazing. The waitress who served us was always around when we needed to order drinks, food, and when the water needed to be topped up. The food was so so good. Would highly recommend the Wagyu for the main. The sake creme brulee was also a standout for me. The other thing I was very impressed about is the complimentary cake they provided with a birthday candle which really goes a long way. Really appreciated the gesture, the good service and most importantly, the food. Thank you Komeyui for looking after us. We will definitely be back.

Love the food and wonderful service here. We had the omakase at the table, and ordered the additional nigiri. The sashimi was well prepared and fresh, the foie gras chawamushi was luxurious and pairs well with the Nori crunch. The char grilled Wagyu was very nice, not a stand out, but still very nice and rich. The nigiri were all delicious, really good standouts in both the first nigiri and the second, my personal favourites were the hotate with foie gras, and the ebi with ikura. The desert was a crunchy ice cream monaka sandwich, that had a Vegemite caramel and a hint/schmear of boysenberry - so yummy. Will definitely be back, and will opt to sit at the sushi bar next time.

Celebrated my birthday here with a lunch, and it was truly amazing! We ordered a la carte and would highly recommend it as we definitely over-ordered for 2 people and were super full to the brim, so the price was absolutely justified. Service was excellent and they even gave a small cake with a candle. Would definitely come again!

Came here for a birthday dinner and left with mixed feelings — some dishes really stood out while others felt more standard for the price point. The highlight for me was definitely the hand-cut sushi rolls, especially the spicy tuna roll — clean, fresh flavours with a satisfying texture and a good balance between rice, filling, and seaweed. The sashimi platter on the other hand, while fresh, didn’t feel particularly special compared to other omakase-style spots around Melbourne. Still solid, but not something I’d come back for specifically. Among the cooked dishes, the grilled kingfish collar was excellent — slightly charred on the outside, beautifully fatty and tender inside. You do have to work a little to get the meat off the bone, but the flavour payoff makes it worthwhile. The udon was also a pleasant surprise — the broth had a slightly unusual flavour profile but one I really enjoyed; light yet full-bodied enough to round out the meal. The steak was nothing special, did get the cheapest cut because didn’t want to spurge for steak at a Japanese joint but it was cooked well just got it to have some red meat. The beef tartare with mango didn’t quite work for me either; the sweetness from the mango overpowered the natural beef flavour. I’d have preferred a more savoury, vinegar-based balance like a tataki-style preparation. The tempura was simple but well-executed — crisp batter, clean oil, and good texture retention. The chawanmushi was standard but enjoyable, silky smooth with a mild foie gras note that gave it a bit of richness. Oysters were decent, fresh but nothing particularly unique, and the ox tongue leaned a bit too chewy for my taste. Overall, Komeyui delivers a good range of Japanese dishes that are clean and technically sound, but not every dish hits a memorable note. Some excellent moments (that kingfish collar and spicy tuna roll) but others were just okay for what you pay.

excellent food quality and beautiful presentation. they serve one of the best meat and fish in Melbourne. good ambience and interior. i also appreciate how the staffs and chefs cater to personal dietary restrictions or allergies. one thing to improve would be the staffs; the chefs look exhausted, i expected more interaction during the omakase experience. overall it was a nice visit, would come again :)

I made a reservation and visited this restaurant to celebrate my partner's birthday. The atmosphere was wonderful, and the food was, of course, delicious. The staff's attentiveness and hospitality were truly exceptional, and I was completely satisfied. They even prepared a small surprise birthday cake for my partner, which was a lovely touch. Both the cuisine and the staff here are highly professional. I would definitely love to visit again!

Went here and greeted by friendly, smiley staffs. The place is clean and well spaced seatings. There’s 2 private rooms with tatami mats for private groups. Service is quick, food and drinks menu easy to understand. We had the sukiyaki and was cooked on our table by a very helpful staff. It was perfect for winters cold weather and it was really yummy. The beef slices and vegetables were well presented and generous servings and reasonably priced. This is place is easy to get to by tram from Flinders or a 10 min walk from Bourke’s on 86 or 96 from Russell st. Wheelchair and pram friendly with ramp outside.

We always come here for the sukiyaki — it’s authentic, consistent, and never disappoints. Service is great too. Perfect spot in winter, especially for small groups of up to four. Other dishes are fine, but the sukiyaki is definitely the star.

Kenzan has been on my radar for a while — I’d heard a lot of good things from CBD locals, so I finally went in to see what it was about. For me, the sushi and sashimi were the highlights. Super fresh, clean flavours, and definitely the standout of the night. The cold appetisers/entrees leaned a bit too sweet for my taste, but the chawanmushi (custard egg) and miso soup were both excellent. From the mains, I tried the chicken teriyaki, steak, and eel on rice — all cooked well, enjoyable, but nothing particularly memorable. At around $40 per main, the pricing felt a little on the high side. Overall, it’s a place that’s hard to fault. Everything was prepared properly, service was smooth, and the sashimi alone makes it worth a visit. A solid experience across the board.

The Unajyu was delicious, with no fishy taste, and the sauce and rice complemented each other perfectly. The lunch set bento, Korin and Kenzan Gozen were also great both options were served neatly, and the tempura was crispy and well done. However, the Gyu Teriyaki was not special and didn’t quite meet my expectations. What was most disappointing, though, was the SUSHI & SASHIMI COMBINATION with miso soup. It was the least impressive I’ve had at a Japanese restaurant. Since I went during lunchtime, the sashimi slices were uneven in size, and it felt like a beginner had cut them. That said, the staff were friendly, which I appreciated. I would recommend this place if you’re looking for something other than sushi and sashimi.

Kenzan continues to live up to its reputation as one of Melbourne’s most enduring and authentic Japanese dining experiences. The quality of the food and service is consistently outstanding, making it a go-to for traditional Japanese cuisine. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the *deluxe sashimi platter* was a true standout – beautifully presented with melt-in-your-mouth textures and clean, delicate flavours. The butterfish was a particular highlight, silky and rich with just the right balance. Also loved the steak, which was perfectly cooked and packed with flavour – a great complement to the lighter seafood dishes. Kenzan delivers on every level: premium quality, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that reflects its deep roots in Melbourne’s dining scene. A must-visit for anyone craving authentic, high-quality Japanese food.

Great service and very good atmosphere, food was nothing extraordinary just what you would expect from quite typical Japanese crusine dishes. The dessert was really well done matcha brûlées was top tier, the yuzu mousse was nice too if you prefer very sweet dessert the teriyaki beef felt too dry and the sauce kind of ruins the good steak for me, if you prefer Western style perhaps its not the one.

Organised a surprise birthday party for my partner and her closest friends. We booked the private dining tatami style room and it was absolutely gorgeous and gave the very luxury vibe that allowed our group to enjoy our meaningful time together. All the staff were very accomodating and welcoming, I am genuinely so impressed with the food and the hospitality. 10/10 would recommend to anyone! The banquet food option was delicious! And the sake was absolutely wonderful. Thank you Kenzan Japanese Restaurant

We ordered the all in set menu, which was such a great choice. It was quite pricey, but for the flavours and experience it was worth it for the special occasion. The staff were very accomodating, friendly, and on the ball with speed and a great balance of personal space and check-ins. Specifically, the sticky eggplant dish was outstanding (we ordered a half serve as it was not on the set menu). Very filling and enjoyable, would return for other special occasions in the future!!

It was a Monday night which is one of their quieter evenings. This suited us. We were celebrating my husband’s birthday. Complimentary drinks were given to each of us. Nice touch. The atmosphere was warm, casual and inviting. The food was excellent. The outstanding dishes were the Kingfish sashimi and Sticky eggplant. The Striploin pared with the Broccolini was also excellent. The Salmon tartare was nice but found that it needed a bit more punch. The delivery of the food was spaced out nicely. We sat at the bar and engaged with lovely Olly, the bartender. James, our server, was engaging, attentive and very helpful in describing the dishes. The boys organised a complementary dessert with a sparkler in it, ‘Strawberry Snow’. Gosh! It was so good. An explosion of freshness in your mouth. A must try. James and Olly, you do the restaurant credit. Great service. A most enjoyable evening and would definitely recommend this place.

I honestly can’t even count how many times I’ve been here. Definitely my top restaurant in Melbie ❤️❤️ I come at least 1–2 times a month and always recommend it to friends. My absolute faves are the prawn katsu and the rainbowl bowl. The prawn katsu takes me back to eating shrimp burgers in Japan, but here they use yuzu mayo – so refreshing!!! The rainbowl (if I’m not mistaken) is a mix of kingfish, tuna, and salmon with a yuzu ponzu dressing. Super fresh and so YUM!! Lately, I’ve been loving their chocolate fondant with miso caramel ice cream. It’s such a simple dessert, but it brings back childhood memories for me. Every dish I’ve ordered here feels nostalgic in some way, and I’m so glad Tokyo Tina always delivers that experience. 🫶

Amazing Japanese fusion restaurant in Melbourne! The dishes were creative and beautifully presented. Every bite was full of flavor. The atmosphere was modern and cozy, and the staff were super friendly. Definitely one of my favorite spots in the city!

The service here was friendly and patient. All of the dishes were excellent however the duck udon lacked the rich flavour profile that the other dishes presented. The passion fruit margarita was not great for the price. I would highly recommend the rainbow rice bowl as it was fresh and delicious! The duck bao had plenty of meat and was filling.

Absolutely exquisite food. We got the kingfish sashimi, crispy eggplant and miso baked cauliflower. The sashimi was very nice, but the eggplant and baked cauliflower were exceptional!! HIGHLY recommend these two dishes, and would definitely come back for them both

I first visited Tokyo Tina about 7 years ago—and I’ve been returning ever since. After nearly a decade on Chapel Street, it’s clear why this spot continues to thrive. The food, the energy, the interiors… everything is consistently on point. The interiors perfectly complement the playful, street-style Japanese menu. A bold shopfront covered in peeling manga posters sets the tone. Inside, raw timber battens, inky murals of Tokyo traffic, and strings of glowing globes create a space that feels like a moody laneway behind an anime store. Even the bar section, with its crumbling walls adds to the gritty-cool aesthetic—designed by Samantha Eades & Wendy Bergman. What really sets Tokyo Tina apart though is the service. Staff are warm, attentive and genuinely care—checking in often but never intrusively. It’s that rare kind of hospitality that makes you feel looked after from the moment you walk in. The food has remained consistently excellent over the years. We ordered the spiced edamame, kingfish sashimi, crispy sticky eggplant, karaage chicken, prawn katsu milk buns, and miso baked cauliflower—all absolutely spot on. I’d order every single one again without hesitation. Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a big group catch-up, Tokyo Tina is always a good idea. I’m eyeing off their Bingo Academy next (every Saturday!)—it sounds like such a fun night

Shira Nui has long been a favourite local sushi spot, and it’s still a solid choice. Since reopening, though, the prices have jumped quite a bit. The familiar faces are still around, but it looks like the two older sushi masters have stepped back, leaving things in the hands of the third chef (the youngest of the original 3) The sushi is still good, but you can tell the difference compared to before. At around $150 for omakase, the value just isn’t quite there anymore given how many other great options are available at that price point. Worth trying if you’re loyal to the venue, but I’m not sure I’d return at the current price.

This gem in Glen Waverley continues to make us go “ooohhh” and “yummm” for their omakase. You can’t ask for a more diverse range of items and the quality is unrivalled. Great to see two different omakase menus now. This place definitely punches above its weight. It’s unpretentious but staff are very attentive. They were extremely accommodating when one of us in the group requested no chilli. No dramas at all - she certainly didn’t miss out as they bent over backwards to make sure she got an alternative sushi when the rest of us had something which had chilli.

If you’re dreaming of Japan but stuck in Melbourne, this Glen Waverley gem delivers an authentic sushi omakase experience that’s as unforgettable as it is affordable. For over 20 years, this family favourite has consistently delivered high-quality nigiri omakase. The restaurant offers two options: 9 types of nigiri (2 pieces each, 18 total) or 16 types of nigiri (16 pieces total), both priced at an incredible $120. Each set includes appetisers, chawanmushi, and a refreshing granita for dessert, making it one of Melbourne’s best-value omakases. Highlights include their award-winning oyster sushi, which melts in your mouth with a creamy, delicate flavour, as well as the silky chawanmushi with bites of fish and eel that enhance its taste. The yakiniku beef nigiri and toro tuna belly are other standouts, both rich, tender, and expertly crafted. Unpretentious and homely, the experience is elevated by top-notch ingredients, refreshing flavours, and clear instructions for enjoying each piece as intended. For a quick lunch fix, their $35 sashimi set and nigiri sets are equally impressive, offering great value with appetisers, miso soup, and their signature chawanmushi. The simple, slightly dated decor may lack flash, but the warm ambiance, friendly staff, and skilled chefs more than compensate. For the full experience, request a counter seat to watch Hiro, Melbourne’s first qualified sushi chef, craft each piece with precision. This unassuming spot is easily one of Melbourne’s best, combining authenticity, quality, and exceptional value. A must-visit for sushi lovers.

Been coming since 2003 and this remains my favourite nigiri omakase restaurant. The now secret off-menu Shira Nui Nigiri (pictured) is a great half-omakase set for lunchtimes.

So much wrong information going around!! I’ve been coming to this restaurant for over 20 years and it honestly breaks my heart to see the wrong information being shared about it. Since reopening the price increase has only $10, there’s also a $130 option available not just the $150 one. Chef Yuki (looks young but told me he is around 50yo!) has an impressive background. He was one of the original staff at Shiranui and worked with Chef Hiro san for over 20 years. Hiro san himself once said Yuki was the only chef he’d trust to take over the restaurant, believing he’s the only one capable of continuing his legacy. With that kind of expertise, you know the quality here is exceptional. This isn’t one of those flashy, performance driven omakase joints that are so popular at the moment. It’s a place for people who want to relax and enjoy their sushi at their own pace, truly appreciating the authentic flavours of Japanese cuisine. The taste is always top notch and incredibly consistent. If you’re after a place that serves traditional Japanese flavours, I highly recommend this restaurant. It’s a rare find, and I hope others get to experience the same quality I’ve enjoyed for so many years!

Loving the professional and welcoming customer services. Despite is omakase and cost $150 per person, the meals was enjoyable with quality. The seafood paired as sushi have the right balanced of vinegar and portion. The freshness of the tuna, eels , king fish, clams, scallops, salmon and Wahyu was correct cutting and was fresh and delicious. Wish the dessert could be matched cheese cake or some Japanese cakes or icecream tradition. Atmosphere was good but as it peaks up with customer was abit noisy. Cleanliness is good but could improved with wet wipes if possible before dinning.

Hands down the best sushi and omakase in Melbourne. My family and I have been coming to Shira Nui for over 10 years — and it never misses a beat. Every dish is crafted with precision, balance, and heart. The consistency is unmatched, the freshness is flawless, and the chefs’ attention to detail is pure art. Still our number one after a decade.

Heard about Yakikami from friends and seen it pop up a lot in Melbourne’s dining scene, so finally came to check it out. From my understanding, they mainly focus on Japanese yakitori and meats. Everything was cooked with the refinement you’d expect from a Japanese restaurant, but for me the flavours and the price point didn’t quite match up. To be fair, I had just come back from Japan, so maybe that raised my expectations, but the quality for what you pay here just didn’t feel worth it. The standouts: • Yakitori chicken hamburg-style “sausage dog” – easily one of the highlights, really delicious. • Tempura prawn with cheese-coated sushi – surprisingly well balanced, the cheese wasn’t overpowering and actually worked. • Chawanmushi (Japanese steamed egg) – my personal favourite of the night, silky and full of flavour. The Wagyu meats were good, but again, for the price I didn’t feel they justified the spend. I also ordered a few sushi/sashimi dishes – they were fine, but nothing special and I probably wouldn’t order them again. Service was excellent throughout the night, no complaints there. Overall, Yakikami is good, but for how hyped it is and the premium you pay, I walked away feeling underwhelmed. Glad I tried it, but not somewhere I’d rush back to.

This place is immaculate. This is the second time we’ve been here and I’m still blown away at how good the food tastes, the freshness and the quality. We came here to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. The staff were very attentive - refilling water, asking everyone if they wanted another drink whether it was the same or a different one. The bartender we asked to make a drink executed it perfectly. We gave him a drink profile we were after and he delivered. We also had shots on the house which we asked to take with the bartender. The Zensai was out of this world. The jelly that was paired with it was the perfect mix of tangy and sweet. The Oysters, were also very nice and fresh. I’m personally not the biggest fan of oysters, but the sauce paired with it went well. Sashimi - unbelievable fresh, delicious. The standout pieces were the scallop, The fatty tuna piece which melted in your mouth and the salmom which was immaculate. Snowcrab - as someone who hates crab and has never had an egg cooked this way before, it was very delicious. seasoned well with sauce, the dish was immaculate. Great balance of meat to egg ratio. There wasn’t a lot of meat to take away from the star of the dish; the egg and there wasn’t too little crab pieces to make you feel like you’re getting your moneys worth. I’m an avid Chinese BBQ skewer lover. The skewers ere are very different to Chinese bbq skewers (which are typically street food). Yakikami has a more elegant take on it, the food was extremely soft, it was packed with flavour but at the same time not overpowering the actual dish you were eating. Chicken wing - amazing Shittake mushroom - fresh, juicy Chicken neck - texture wasn’t my partners favourite, it’s definitely a little different, I was able to overlook the texture as the flavour was great. Chicken inner thigh - super tender and flavourful Chicken meatball - I was pleasantly surprised by this as I wasn’t expecting to like it. It paired well with the pasteurised egg. Duck skewer - I’ve never had duck outside of Chinese bbq style duck, so this was nice to try. The flavour is very nice, the leek paired perfectly with it. Chicken soup - the broth was velvety and smooth. Seasoned very well. I will say it tasted very similar to Dari’s chicken soup you a pick up, but there’s some extra stuff that makes all the difference. Dari’s chicken soups flavour is about 70% the same, but there’s texture of this soup and the remaining 30% is very different to Dari’s soup and is well worth it. Chicken was sous vide or cooked similarly. Extremely tender and not something easily replicated. Pork had a Smokey flavour to it (very subtle), but very much had that traditional char siu flavour Dessert was so good. Presentation was nice and was a great way to end the evening. Full disclosure, we did order a couple extra skewers before we got to dessert. An omakase isn’t about making you completely food, but to experience the journey of taste and artistry the chef has put together. We left Yakikami full and were not complaining. 10/10 experience, we’ll 100% be back

On the higher-end side, a bit pricey, but absolutely worth it. Every dish is worth trying. Simply amazing. Wine was excellent, and the fish was exceptionally fresh.

Had what I was hoping would be a pleasant dinner, but I was honestly shocked by how rude one of the female staff was — she was wearing a black suit, so I’m guessing she’s a supervisor. First of all, I had a booking but was still asked to wait — even though there were plenty of empty seats available. It wasn’t until I asked, “Can I sit at those empty tables?” that they suddenly realised they could seat me. Not a great start. Then, during the meal, this same supervisor dropped a dish right on top of my chopsticks and didn’t even bother to clean the table afterwards. When I reminded her about these two issues, I expected her to acknowledge it and do something — but instead, she started arguing with me! She actually tried to explain that she didn’t see the dish drop onto my chopsticks. Excuse me? I’m the one sitting there telling you it happened! Her reaction was just to deny it — no apology, no action, just excuses and attitude. Unbelievable. Really disappointing service, especially from someone who’s supposed to set an example. Never coming back.

The food and drinks were high quality, though definitely on the pricey side. Service started off efficient, but the final course took about 30 minutes to arrive, and we had to ask twice about it, which was frustrating.

Love everything we ordered… we particularly enjoyed: - the grilled asparagus with egg yolk & sauce hidden in the stack - snow crab chawamushi was so smooth that it’s a crime lol - chicken wings was crispy & fragrant - the grilled chicken neck caught us by surprise - grilled meatball with egg yolk - their wagyu skewer and accompanying green sauce - unagi temaki - one of the best I’ve eaten The dry sake complements our meal really well. The wait staff who served us was very lovely. We were seated at the counter which was great to see all the actions at the grilling station. Thanks heaps team. We’ll be back :)

It was a joy to eat delicious food while watching the chefs at work. There were so many fun cocktails to choose from."Kiko san" was amazingly delicious!

Although wasn’t intended to visit as my son just needed to go to the toilets but the manager was very nice and kind so we stayed for lunch after knowing it’s an Asian fusion restaurant. The dishes were amazing. Very well plated and cooked. We had a pleasant time.

Top 5 restaurant globally for me. They have a branch in Brisbane, but nothing beats the Melbourne kitchen. Absolutely a delight each time dining here. Modern Australian with a hints Asian flavours. Spoiling my tastebuds every time I visit. This should be an Australian institution. Go for cappacio, the duck baos, lobster roll and the fish (we had the flounder) damn!!!!! All sooo good. Died and gone to good heaven. I hate the crew for making me miss their food this much. Will be flying back sooon!!!

This is my second time at this restaurant, and the food is still just as good. We ordered the lobster burgers and sticky rice cakes again, like last time, and also tried some new dishes. I highly recommend the roast pork—it’s perfectly cooked, soft, juicy, and full of flavor. The dumplings, on the other hand, were a bit too plain and not very impressive. The flounder was an interesting surprise for me. It came with a type of Japanese kombu I hadn’t tried before—it looked grey, turned a little slimy when eaten, and had a very strong taste. Personally, I enjoyed it, but I can see how it might not be

***** Supernormal: My Go-To for a Fantastic Night Out! Supernormal is, quite simply, my favorite spot in the city. After five visits, it remains consistently excellent. Everything, from the moment you walk in, is top-notch. The food is always the star, and I can never go past the lamb, it's always incredible, perfectly cooked, and a dish I look forward to every single time. And let's not forget that amazing little complimentary touch: the soy-roasted pumpkin seeds they bring out at the beginning are addictive! Beyond the food, the ambience is buzzing yet comfortable, the service is always great (attentive but never intrusive), and they truly nail the drinks. Their cocktails are inventive and delicious, and the wine selection is broad and thoughtful. Supernormal delivers a fantastic experience across the board. If you're looking for an unforgettable meal and a great time, this is the place. I can't wait for my sixth visit!

My colleague and I had lunch on Saturday, September 27th. We thought it was a very pleasant venue to get together. The menu is somewhat limited, but we didn't worry about it. The quality was great. We had double portions of the Lobster roll ( 2 each), the Duck leg, and the Scallops. Prepare to pay premium prices. We were seated at the counter which isn't convenient for personal conversations. ( hence 4 stars). The staff were very accommodating ( The manager (?) in the black suit and glasses was a typical and a professional host. Compliments to the Sommelier. Delightful wine list and the Medhurst Chardonnay 2024 ( Yarra Valley) was such a great accompaniment with the lobster rolls.

My wife loved Supernormal and we visit each time we are in the vicinity. We loved their XinJiang ribs and dishes but this time we did not have an enjoyable time. We sat at the cramped counter and there was none of the ribs as it was only for a short time. Among other dishes ordered, we also ordered from “Dumpling and friends” menu, the prawn toast and wagyu beef bun at $12 each. Although the price was reasonable, the size of the prawn toast and wagyu beef were too small. The prawn toast was just a bit bigger than 50 cents coin. They could have included another one and I would not have complained or write this review. The wagyu beef bun was nothing special. It was not in keeping with SuperNormal excellence. If you are dining there after reading this, don’t order the “dumpling & friends”. However, we did like the Sichuan chicken and flounder. I wish they had more sense than to put out such an “ordinary” dumpling & friends menu.

a supernormal dining experience at Melbourne's hottest spot @supernormal we started with the Korean Rice Cakes with sesame and sweet chilli $12, the perfect combo of soft and sticky with a crisp outer shell. Prawn Toast $12 was a savoury bomb with thick, generous pieces of prawn wrapped in a shell of crunchy sesame toast. The Shark Bay Scallop roasted in kelp butter $14 so rich and delicious, couldn't get enough of that sauce in shell goodness. For shared mains, we got the Short Rib Bun with aged vinegar & fermented chilli $15, stuffed with protein and with a melt in your mouth tenderness. The chilli was a nice kick of freshness to cut through the heaviness. We also got the Duck Bao with twice cooked duck leg, black vinegar & plum sauce which was unfortunately a bit of a letdown as the sauces were quite watered down. The duck was cooked well but it was a bit bland so I wouldn't order this dish again. everything was great except the duck so it was a shame to end on that note, but I would highly recommend ordering all their snacks and entrees!!

We had a 7-course tasting menu, but unfortunately, many of the dishes were below average. Some were overwhelmingly sour or sweet to the point where I couldn’t help but scrunch my face. The King shrimp with squid ink was served cold and felt overly greasy. While I enjoyed the duck, parts of it were so chewy that I had to spit some out. Both desserts felt like a random mix of flavors that didn’t complement each other. Overall, it didn’t feel worth the price for a fine dining experience. That said, the staff and service were excellent.

One of the best in Melbourne, classic Japanese French, the chief is great, the wine list is amazing too. Definitely a Michelin star worthy restaurant!

Highly recommend giving this place a try if you haven’t already! It’s been a few years since our last visit, and happy to say the food is still just as yummy. Every dish was beautifully plated and full of flavour — you can really tell they put care into both the presentation and the taste. The atmosphere is lovely too, making it a perfect spot for a date or special occasion.

High level, intricate and delicious Japanese meal. Presentation was impeccable. Service was subtle, excellent wine suggestions. Every course was superb - we could not choose our favorite. Highly recommended for a memorable, special occasion

Extremely good fine dining restaurant with a Japanese and French inspired kitchen. We had the 7 course menu. We "upgraded" to the wagyu beef. Highly recommended. The price per person was around $270 with only a glass of wine. The service was very professional.

Great dining experience! The food are delicious: > the appetizerssssss were amazing and I especially like the salmon ikura tart > the seaweed butter is creative and taste very good > the grill prawn is the most delicious dish of all, the seasoning, the grill is just perfect > we like the lamb main dish more than the upgraded wagyu but both of then are good The waiters are very welcoming and I can see them serving from the bottom of their heart. Online /phone reservation is needed.

We came here for my birthday back in April 2021. Last night we were in the area and decided to do an impromptu drop in to see if we could get a table. We were seated and we ate the 7 course meal for $220 pp. Everything was phenomenal. The meals were delicious. They were a nice fusion of French, Australian and Japanese styles. Masa and his crew were incredibly kind and the service was top notch. This is not one of those restaurants that make dishes that look good for social media posts with disappointing flavours. The flavours in the 7 course menu were adventurous and they all complimented each other so well. The scallops and lamb were so good! Can't wait to return again!

A good experience for tempura omakase! Amazing as expected. Just don’t get the sushi option. Definitely get the tempura set only!! The sushi is quite average and if you want the full tempura experience, make sure to get the tempura set! Good, friendly service and small, cozy vibes.

Booked here for a birthday celebration. It’s a good value for omakase that won’t break your wallet. Very intimate space with only 12 seats in one sitting, there’s only 2 sitting per night and have to book it quite early on. Such an exciting experience that ticks all the boxes you want it to be. Good foods, good pace, nice sake and a good presentation. Would recommend it for occasion and ensure to allow enough time to enjoy the meal. We were there from 7pm to almost 10pm Don’t bring your white boys here especially when they aren’t cultured enough to appreciate the foods.

Loved it! Last time I was here was over 10 years ago... Still as good as it was back then... Had the Tempura and Sushi omakase. Delightful... The swordfish was a favourite and the Tempura is always good...cooked perfectly, not oily and so tasty. Highly recommend...

Interesting tempura omakase experience with Hajime. The flavours were overall very clean, at the end of the meal, we were plenty full, but somehow we felt like we didn’t eat anything, like there was some sort of cleanliness in our mouths?? My favourite tempuras were the Unagi and scallop with uni. Both were deep fried to perfection and the Unagi had this unique smokiness, while the scallop was sweet and juicy. I personally found their omakase courses to be slightly lacking in flavour profiles. Most of them tasted quite monotonous. They were all masterfully deep fried, but I would’ve wished there were more adventurous flavour profiles, or just varieties in tastes and textures, instead of all clean tasting fish. For example, some courses I can think of include tempura prawn head, abalone, pumpkin, asparagus etc. Overall, we were satisfied with the dining experience. I personally would’ve just liked to have more varieties in the omakase course.

Best Tempura in town! The lunch is affordable compared with the dinner menu. The waitress and chef are thoughtful and friendly. The dining space is comfortable. We had the Tempura set and sushi & sashimi set, both looks presentable and delicious. Even the rice and miso soup tasted outstanding. I would like to try their Ten-Don next time.

Tempura Hajimae 🍤🍣 OMAKASE Tempura & Sushi Course $150 - Sashimi - Tempura: Chef's selection of 10 pieces - Mixed seaweed salad - Japanese refreshment - Sushi * Varieties of fresh fish on top of vinegared rice & Nori roll & Marbled Japanese Wagyu beef sushi - Dessert Another hidden gem for Omakase in Melbourne! This restaurant is specialised in tempura! All the tempura was fried right in front of you! You get to try the freshest, crispiest and piping hot tempura here! My fav got to be the scallop with uni filling, whiting, unagi and the sweet potato! Everything was so finely made! I seriously can’t fault anything I had. My tummy was truly spoiled by this gorgeous dinner. The set menu is $140-150. It’s much more worthy than the other overhyped Omakase in Melbourne!

Tempura Haijime has a solid reputation for being the best tempura bar in Melbourne - and for good reason too. Upon arrival at the restaurant, you will be greeted by incredibly friendly staff members, who will usher you into a waiting lounge, and help you be seated at a 12 seater bar. Given the size of the restaurant, it goes without saying that you must book in advance, and arrive on time (especially if you are going to the 530pm dinner sitting). Throughout the meal, we watched the Chef make the tempura piece by piece. He was silent, calm and a pleasure to watch execute his craft. The tempura itself was excellent, with a killer batter recipe. The unagi, sweet potato, scallop tempura pieces were standouts for me. We ordered the $130 p/head course, which for the extra $10, was worth the additional sashimi items. Was it worth the price? Absolutely. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or to be transported to Japan, this is a great choice.

We had a great experience in all aspects you'd want when dining. Our service is was above normal with the team being super accommodating and hospitable. We had really good food and have dined at Yaki several times! Couldn't recommend it more for a really cool vibes and excellent fusion Japanese cuisine. Can't wait to return again soon.

Absolutely Amazing Experience at Yakimono! I recently dined at Yakimono and had such an incredible experience! The food was absolutely delicious, full of flavour, beautifully presented, and perfectly cooked. The atmosphere was vibrant and modern, which made the whole experience even better. The staff were so friendly and attentive throughout the evening. I had ordered something that wasn’t quite to my taste, and without any hesitation, they happily swapped it for another dish , no fuss, no judgment, just genuine care to make sure I enjoyed my meal. That kind of customer service is rare these days, and it really made the night feel special. Highly recommend Yakimono to anyone who values amazing food and even better hospitality. I’ll definitely be coming back!

Wonderful dishes! Great ambiance. Special shout out to - Jasmine who looked after us so well with recommendations. Sam, Josh and Ajay in the bar ! We will definitely be back!

We came from Sydney for the experience and were so looking forward to it, left feeling very average. Cocktails were delicious and a great start, the dishes were average at best however. The gyoza were thick and the fillings were dry. Tartare was ok, though lacked seasoning. The pork belly was tasty and the cauliflower had a nice sauce with it. Presentation of all dishes were lovely and service was great.

Yakimono has such a cool vibe. The neon lighting gives the whole place a fun, modern feel without being too much — it’s the perfect mix of energetic and cozy. The open kitchen is a highlight; you can actually see the chefs at work, and it adds a ton of life and atmosphere to the space. The food was amazing, but honestly, the whole experience is what makes Yakimono stand out. You can feel the energy in the room — the lights, the sounds, the smell of food being cooked right in front of you — it all comes together perfectly. Definitely one of the best Japanese restaurants I’ve been to. Great food, awesome atmosphere, and just a really enjoyable place to hang out. Highly recommend checking it out!

The food was amazing, but the service was incredibly disappointing. We waited over 30 minutes just for our bottle of wine, and our dishes came out so staggered that we ended up eating edamame for 25 minutes before our starters even arrived. The rest of the food was same story we eventually had to ask for the rest of our food to be brought out because we needed to leave for a show. The place was not that busy so I don't understand why the delays! Because of the delays, we didn’t even have time to order dessert, which was really disappointing. I’ve visited many times before and never had an issue, so this experience was a real letdown after so many great visits.

I will keep coming back! From the sensational service from Alisna, to tasty bevs from Liam and magic made by Aaron - Yakimono is a must visit in melbs. The menu is subject to change but hopefully you’re lucky enough to try the oysters w/ tobiko, scallops, seafood hand rolls and gyozas. Standout was the kimchi rice: ask for it extra spicy if you want a depth of flavour that no words can prepare you for! Watching the chefs while seated at the kitchen will have you hypnotised.

Went to Bincho Boss today to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday. It’s a lovely spot with delicious food at affordable prices. The staff were friendly and accommodating. The Bincho set we ordered was a true treat for our taste buds — absolutely worth it!

From the food to the service, everything was absolutely top-notch. We came here to celebrate my boyfriend’s birthday, and it was such an amazing experience. The staff were warm and attentive throughout, and the cocktails were super duper good!! Definitely some of the best we’ve had in a while! By the end of our meal, they even surprised us with a lovely pudding for my boyfriend, which we didn’t expect. Such a thoughtful touch and a perfect way to end the night. Highly recommend!

Cozy little spot tucked away in the city. The $9.90 cocktails and small plates were a pleasant surprise — great value without sacrificing taste. The soy milk hot pot was rich and comforting, perfect for a cold night. Omakase for two was fresh, beautifully plated, and a great way to sample a bit of everything. Scallops were a standout. Wagyu was okay, but everything else made up for it. Chill vibe, friendly staff — a great place to catch up with a friend over good food and better gossip.

My bestie and I were looking for a new place for late brunch in the CBD then we saw the B.B’s beautiful shop ( eccentric pink lighting and cool and clean shop ) And Also the $49,99 special Poster at their window. Which is … (Reman set plus 2 sides ) and bar menu snacks- - $10 dollars. Then we went in and a lovely gentleman was very friendly when i ask about the special offer. He responded me very nicely and well explained……. But I don’t really remember now coz my memory is full loaded the B.B yummy foods at that time . 😛😝🤪 - can’t really pay much attention when i am starving. Sorry Also … please check the BBs offical website in regard to the price of special set . As …. Numbers or figures are not my friend…. Aw ….. 🙂‍↕️😜😝。 Anyways we order 1 Japness Beer and sider. Also 2 bar snacks - crispy fish skin ( deep fried) and Karara chicken. The chick is good but the fish skin is a bit …. Hard then crispy ( the texture ) . Then aw …. I remember something …. The gentleman told us that we can order the special set early …. It was supposed to start at xxxx time . But the kitchen said …. Okay 👍 to order a Little bit early . 😍😉 thanks ( 🙏 it’s very good and understanding of customer service and what we want . Sometimes the Customer SERVICE is very important and also “ my heart to your heart —- service philosophy is very important to ME . For example like when I go to window shopping or wasting time or waiting my some not so on time friends then I go to the shops just to Look look but I probably purchase something when the sales associate is extremely friendly and they engaging me or very impressed me . 😝🤩 u know…… ( p.s - i am not a “ shoppholic “ . But a little of an alcoholic 😝🤪😋 or vodka B…. Ha ha Anyway we didn’t order the special ramen deal coz they only got the veg or the chick 🍜ramen deal . Then we order the big Prawns ramen. $50 ( price may not be accurate or up to date. ( please kindly refers to the official website for more details and information. ) thanks The Reman was quite interesting…. It wasn’t what we expected those soupp… it was saucy… kind of like a carbonara with orange fish eggs …. Or I don’t know …. But the grant Prawn is fresh . It was a good experience . One last thing is , if u are short then the tall bar chair may not be comfortable for you and definitely not my kinda of chair 🪑 lol … Thanks for reading my comment. Have an awesome dayssssss . Love. PL

I was so impressed by this spot! We made a last minute reso so I didn’t know what to expect, but the food and service was fantastic. We ordered the Bincho preset menu since we wanted the sashimi and nigiri option and I could not recommend more!! The sashimi was fresh, flavorful and beautifully plated, and they included incredible dishes like the miso black cod that wouldn’t normally try. It was the perfect amount of food and we would definitely go back!

We had an exceptional dining experience at Bincho Boss. A group of five of us dined in, four chose the Bincho Set Menu and one went with the Vegetarian Set. Both menus were incredibly well-curated, taking us through a progression of beautifully presented dishes, each bursting with flavour, umami, texture, and balance. The vibe inside is modern yet warm, with a moody, intimate atmosphere that feels like a stylish Tokyo izakaya tucked into Melbourne’s laneways. Service was outstanding from start to finish, attentive, friendly, and perfectly timed. Every course felt deliberate and thoughtful, from the delicate starters to the bold grilled dishes and elegant mains. Even the vegetarian options were full of depth and creativity. Bincho Boss hit the mark in every way. As the Japanese say, “kaishin no ichigeki” – a critical hit. We’ll definitely be back. Highly recommended for lovers of elevated Japanese dining.

The food and the beers were delicious. However, the menu can be a little more descriptive for the people who are new to exploring Japanese cuisine. The atmosphere was very nice and the service was also great.

Our latest favourite dining experience. All staff were wonderfully professional, elegant and graceful and ever attentive to our comfort. The dishes were prepared with skill and passion. It was effortless and natural and a feast not only for the pallet but also for the eyes. We’re definitely booking another evening here very soon.

Tried Warabi Japanese restaurant today and was overall a bit disappointed—perhaps my expectations were too high. The restaurant has a nice environment with refined decor, but the dishes didn’t quite meet the expected standard. The service was very good. At over $200 per person, the value for money isn’t great. It feels like you’re paying more for the ambiance than the food itself. Might be worth a visit for photos or a one-time experience, but I probably wouldn’t return.

Absolutely incredible omakase experience at Warabi. This was my second time here, and I enjoyed it just as much — if not more — than the first. Every dish was beautifully presented, using the freshest ingredients and showcasing the best of seasonal flavours. The raw seafood was exceptionally fresh and delicately prepared — you can truly taste the quality in every bite. The chef was warm and engaging, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere while carefully explaining each course. It’s clear that a lot of thought and passion goes into every detail of the menu. I really enjoy this place — both the food and the overall experience are consistently excellent. If you’re looking for a refined yet relaxed Japanese dining experience in Melbourne, Warabi is a must-visit. Can’t wait to return again!

I recently had an omakase meal at Warabi. While the food itself was decent, the overall experience was seriously undermined by one issue: the restaurant charged $16 person for still water without any prior notice. This price is far beyond what one would normally expect, and had I been informed in advance, I would have opted for tap water or none at all. Transparency is especially important in fine dining. Failing to inform customers about such high charges feels misleading—borderline deceptive. This practice completely eroded my trust in the restaurant. I won’t be returning and wouldn’t recommend it to friends.

We went to @warabimelbourne for Omakase and whilst we enjoyed each other's company, the food was not very special for the $$$. The restaurant was also lacking atmosphere. No sashimi course and only six nigiri in this Omakase menu! There are now so many options that you really need to offer remarkable flavours and produce or present something of a value proposition. $40 add on for one piece of otoro nigiri topped with caviar kinda gives you an idea. There were also many flavours that overpowered the main characters of certain dishes. The pork and mussel on sesame leaf with pickled radish was a good example where the delicate pickled radish would be the perfect balance for the fatty pork, however the proportion of radish just took over the flavour and the mussel was totally forgotten making its presence pointless. I would have expected to see a sashimi course here but that was also lacking. The nigiri was made with care, but the flavours were standard and the produce was not remarkable. The best mouthful for the night was the chutoro hand roll but that was it. The meal was nice enough to try but there are definitely better Omakase options in Melbourne.

Treated ourselves to this chef’s hat omakase last week and ya girl was definitely impressed! The moment we walked in, we were instantly greeted by the most friendly staff and the venue itself is just drop dead gorgeous. This 13 course mid-week sushi experience is priced at $185pp and is situated at the chefs counter. Highlights for me include the deep fried shrimp wrapped in knafeh, charcoal seared A5 wagyu nigiri and their signature unagi hand roll. The deconstructed cheesecake also deserves a shout special out. I’m even inclined to say it’s one of the best desserts I’ve had in an omakase! Overall I thought each dish was very well executed including the pace at which they were served. Would happily come back here again for sure. Highly recommend checking this place out if you haven’t already.

The entire dining experience was like being in an interactive art piece. Well crafted food and seevice

Modern styling with beautiful lighting, the venue and atmosphere certainly impress. The staff were friendly and unpretentious which was somewhat surprising given the price point. We were recommended to order 2 small 2 large and 2 sides and opted for 2 small 2 large 1 side and 1 dessert. Despite this being in line with the suggested serving sizes we did require a Messina run on the way home as it was not particularly filling. At +$150pp I think this is a lovely venue to experience for a special occasion but considering the cost there are superior fine dining venues of better value

I had high expectations because of the good reviews online but was let down. I do not personally think the food was worth the prices charged. prawn toast $26 5/5 no complaints, was the highlight of the night. If I ever came back, I would only order this dish lol jasmine nonalcoholic drink $18 5/5 fragrant and refreshing Tasmanian Salmon $35 1.5/5 for the price, i expected a thicker cut or better quality. the amount of salmon given was very small and it tasted very average. Lobster fried rice $46 2.5/5 the fried rice itself was nice but the lobster felt oddly placed on top, and did not feel connected as a dish Eye fillet $110 2.5/5 Was good but not worth the money, slightly on the salty side for my liking considering the sauce and lemony salt on the side added even more salt. mont blanc $20 2.5/5 first few bites was nice as it has a unique texture and taste however, the lack of cream became apparent as I found myself getting thirstier each bite, I do think a bit more cream would really help chocolate sphere $22 2.5/5 nothing amazing but not bad, standard chocolate dessert Our waiter greeted us and showed us to our table but we found ourselves waiting for 5+ min to get the attention of staff to take our order, once we got attention, they asked us who our waiter was and that they would find them (the first waiter never came back so not sure what happened lol). Another staff then came to take our order. Each time we required staff’s attention, we would have to wait several minutes for things that should be expected such as cutlery for our steak and rice that had been sitting on our table for quite some time before we finally got the attention of a staff. Cutlery for each dish should come together.. The lady who took over our first waiter was lovely and helpful and these issues may be due to lack of communication between staff. Overall it would have been nicer to have staff be a bit more attentive as having to wait several minutes each time disturbed our dining experience

The service was absolutely top-notch! ❤️ From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel so welcome and comfortable. Everyone was incredibly attentive, friendly, and professional, making sure we had everything we needed throughout our visit. I would especially like to mention TIBO, who personally attended to us at the venue. 🤗 His warm attitude, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality truly stood out. He went above and beyond to ensure we had an exceptional experience — from recommending the best options to checking in on us with a cheerful smile. Thanks to TIBO and the wonderful team, our visit turned into such a memorable experience. We truly appreciated the care and effort that went into making everything perfect. Highly recommended! 🌟

Such a beautiful venue, the atmosphere, the design, everything was stunning. Every meal we had was absolutely perfect and so delicious, we loved every single dish. And Bianca was phenomenal, so warm, attentive, and made the whole experience feel really special. We couldn’t have asked for a better night. Can’t wait to come back!

Yugen Dining was an amazing experience and had great atmosphere. I came for dinner the other night for my partners birthday and it was a lot of fun. We had a waiter named lachlan (I think), had a good conversation with him. From a person that only has worked there for 1 month, I must say whatever Yugen does to train their employees is beautiful. The customer service was excellent the staff are friendly. A tip to anyone coming, i suggest booking the chef’s experience menu, as the normal booking only has a selective option.

If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s elevated, visually striking, and where the food is both refined and adventurous, Yūgen is definitely one of Melbourne’s top picks in the Japanese‑fusion / modern Asian space. It’s not casual, but in many ways that’s its strength — it aims high, and mostly delivers.Ambience and setting: Yūgen does very well to create that “special occasion” feel. If you’re after somewhere to impress, or to mark something, this delivers. High calibre of food: The fusion is done thoughtfully; you can tell there’s respect for Japanese traditions, but also playful creativity. It seldom feels gimmicky. Variety of spaces: If you want theatrical/casual/luxury/private‑and‑intimate, they’ve provided options, which is nice. Strong food & drink pairing: Good thought put into beverages to match the food, plus strong dessert/sweets options. Special thanks to the Manager Thibault and Andrea for making our evening very memorable.

Visited Yugen Dining last night not really knowing what to expect. The atmosphere is definitely leaning towards a younger crowd and can get a little loud, definitely feels like a very “scene” place to be. Service was impeccable - waters constantly filled, food came at a good pace, and where mistakes were made quickly acknowledged and I appreciate that sense of ownership and quick rectification. Food was also very good. - The prawn toast with Chinese donut - great springy texture and nailed the sauce - king prawn with noodles was very flavoursome - fried eggplant was moreish - very delicious - the chestnut Mont Blanc texture is probably not going to be for everyone but I really enjoyed it and reminded me of a classic Chinese dessert Is Yugen pricey? Yes. But I can see why people come here for a night out! Delicious food and very vibey - also a great cocktail list

Had such a lovely lunch with a friend at Sushion (so great they have a Friday lunch) — first time back since last year, and the whole menu had changed! Everything was super fresh, especially the sauces. The first sushi with wasabi and yuzu totally blew my mind, and the one with shiso sauce was so good I almost screamed! Definitely going back next time for the dinner course — can’t wait!"

I've reviewed quite a few Japanese restaurants in Australia and at this pricepoint I was expecting Sushi On to be an exceptional experience. I can see why some would give it 5 stars in Melbourne, but honestly it would be 3 stars on Tabelog in Japan. I sampled the lunch menu which includes one sashimi course, 12 individual sushi, miso soup and dessert. Two of the sushi were very good but all the rest pretty average, and a little westernised with slightly excessive dressing and marinade. I also felt that the topping to rice ratio was a little heavy on the rice, as the parting taste of several sushi was rice rather than seafood – that said, I am a sashimi fanatic so my natural preference is next to no rice or dressing 🐟 None of the chefs were Japanese and the vibe was surprisingly casual. The young Cambodian chef on lunch shift was very knowledgeable and the host(ess) gave good service, so shout out to them both.

What a wonderful dining experience at Sushi On! We were served and treated so well by the two chefs in front of us, along with the wait staff. Everyone was friendly, professional and attentive. The seasonal menu keeps things exciting too! Thank you to the Sushi On team for the great experience!

Chef was incredible. Thoroughly enjoyed the intimate setting as the host also made the night incredibly calm and relaxed. Each dish was served thoughtfully and timed so well. I really couldn’t complain about anything except for wanting some takeaway to relive the experience.

What an experience. Went here with my bestie for my birthday and would 100% come again. Wonderful staff and delicious high quality bites. You can definitely tell the quality is high. You do not go go hungry as there are plenty of courses to try and even add on. The vibes are very warm and welcoming, not pretentious at all. It was friendly yet intimate. Even the people around us were happily chatting amongst themselves and smiling. The chefs would occasionally banter with us and it made the meal so much more enjoyable. Shout out to Ken specifically he went out of his way to provide exemplary service and definitely some laughs, while still remaining very professional and attentive. They even gave me extra uni on my sushi piece for my birthday - did not skimp out at all, they didn't have to be so nice. They all deserve a raise, and the chefs hats they've received. You get your monies worth. As someone who's dont several omakase experiences in Australian and Japan, this was a great one.

I had an absolutely amazing Omakase experience! The freshness of the ingredients and the attention to detail in the service made each dish feel special. The chef’s skillful craftsmanship and the beautiful presentation of each plate were impressive.

My wife and I have been fortunate to have had sushi in Japan, California, and even at The Araki in London—but Sushi On topped them all. This is our second time dining with Chef Yong and the omakase was phenomenal. Every piece felt thoughtful and perfectly balanced, and the whole experience was relaxed, personal, and just really special. You can tell the chef puts a ton of care into what they do - including the smallest of details like positioning the nigiri at an angle for a left hander to pick up with ease.

What we loved was the warm, private ambiance and the fact it is by the Yarra. Food was good but was not very satisfied with the miso glazed Glacier 51 tootfish as the serving size was very small (for $80). Then again I get the place is leaning towards fine dining. But service was exceptional, and lobster sushi was amazing. I still recommend it for a date night!

2 people in our party, both had the chef's selection set menu. The food was absolutely phenomenal! Very well-balanced flavours, and the timing of delivery for each course was perfect. I also really enjoyed the Miss Wednesday cocktail

I am going to be honest I didn't find this place too great, we saw the reviews and thought "Okay this place must be great" I really tried to like it but the food was just okay. I can usually forgive okay food if it's at a more affordable price. But this was just okay Japanese food topped with high end garnishings to help justify the price points. The staff were great and I saw someone complain about not knowing the sparkling water wasn't free... It's sparkling water of course you pay for it, Just a heads up for anyone wondering though it's $12 per bottle 😅 The location is great along the Yarra with great views and if you got after work in winter you can catch beautiful colours in the sky with great company (I hope). Total bill came to over $200 which I feel I could've found a sushi train and had a better experience

I shared two dishes and drank mineral water for lunch. It was enough but I found we were paying for the location more than what we were to try from the menu. Yes the fish was exceptional but I’ve had more courses from Navi - the No.1 restaurant of the year 2024 for the money we spent and I thus cannot justify the price. I liked the wasabi. If I had the exposure of this type of location I would be serving duck in 10 different variations with amazing side dishes and they had only one and with boring rice and Brussel sprouts. I want to like it more because of the location but I can’t. Service was exceptional. Oh and it was empty at 12:30 on a Tuesday.

Thank you to the team at Sake for making my wife’s birthday dinner so special. She and all her friends absolutely loved it. A big thank you to the chefs and bar staff for arranging everything and working with the custom menu - the food and drinks were amazing. Special thanks as well for setting up the venue so beautifully; the decorations were perfect and such a highlight for all of her guests. The staff were incredibly attentive, accommodating, and friendly. Everything came out exactly as we hoped, and there were so many compliments about it being the best birthday dinner they’d ever been to. Absolutely amazing evening.

Such a beautiful restaurant with delicious food. Salmon belly was divine! The basque cheesecake was fantastic and one of the best I have ever had. Will definitely be coming back.

Loved the place. The price is on the higher side, portion size is a bit small, but food is fantastic. The staff are very nice and polite.

Gaijin is a fantastic spot for Japanese fusion lovers! Every dish we tried was beautifully presented and full of flavour. The Karaage was perfectly crispy and seasoned, making it a standout appetiser. The Agedashi Tofu was silky smooth with a light, umami-packed broth. For sushi, we loved the Cheese Sensation with its creamy and indulgent flavours, while the Caterpillar roll was fresh, vibrant, and absolutely delicious. The Baked Dynamite had a rich, spicy kick that we couldn’t get enough of, and the Spider roll with crispy soft-shell crab was bold and satisfying. The variety and quality here are amazing, and the sleek, cosy atmosphere made our visit even better. Highly recommend this place for a memorable Japanese dining experience! 🌟🍣 Karaage 17.5 Agedashi tofu 13.5 Cheese Sensation $18.50 Caterpillar $18.50 Baked Dynamite $18.50 Spider $18.50

Love Japanese food and this, did not disappoint! Their sashimis and sushis are sweet and fresh! We love how they got different flavors and varities. They also have an eat all you can sushi & sashimi every Mon to Thurs. A great bargain especially if you love different sushi. Staff are friendly and attentive too. They got different platters as well - we got the Gaijin platter (shown below) and it comes with a hot miso soup.

If you love Japanese food this a spot to add to your list! I love their wide range of sushi rolls - heaps of options to choose from. They do a sushi all you can eat for $55 per person from Monday to Friday.

My partner and I had dinner here and loved the dim, intimate vibe along with the great, quick service. The menu features a wide range of sushi rolls and Japanese dishes. One standout for us was the cheesy gyoza, which ended up being the highlight of the night. However, a few of the sushi rolls we chose could have used a bit more flavor. We’ll definitely be back for the all-you-can-eat menu, as it seems like a great value!

Gaijin Fusion Restaurant delivers a culinary adventure that beautifully blends diverse flavors and textures. Our meal featured several standout dishes that made the evening truly memorable. The Cheesy Gyoza was a delightful surprise, combining the satisfying crispness of dumplings with the indulgence of melted cheese. This dish perfectly balanced comfort and innovation. The Spicy Crispy Salmon Special was another favorite—its crunchy exterior and tender, spicy salmon inside offered a bold and harmonious flavor profile. For dessert, we indulged in a trio of ice creams: Red Bean, Black Sesame, and our absolute favorite, Matcha. The matcha ice cream was a highlight, with its creamy texture and earthy, slightly sweet notes that provided a refreshing yet indulgent end to the meal. The dessert trio showcased Gaijin Fusion’s ability to celebrate traditional flavors with a refined touch. The restaurant’s modern, inviting atmosphere and attentive service added to the experience. While the pricing leans toward the premium side, the creativity, quality, and presentation of the dishes made it a worthwhile splurge. Gaijin Fusion Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique dining experience that blends traditional and contemporary flavors. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or exploring fusion cuisine, this spot promises to delight and surprise. (collab)

we came here on a Thursday night and was impressed with the variety of dishes and options on the menu! They have over 30 different sushi rolls on over and the hardest part was deciding what to get! We ordered the vocalano salad, crunchy spicy tuna don and the sushi platter which includes miso soup which satisfied our appetites 😋 Great spot for date night as it has a dimly lit and great location being in South Yarra!

This contemporary Japanese restaurant is a great little spot for a casual date night or catch up with friends! All the fish we tried was pretty fresh so no complaints there. I recommend ordering the salmon tartare if you come here - the nori tempura crisp is very light in texture but gives you the perfect crunch balance to the minced salmon and mayo drizzle on top. And if you dine in between Monday to Friday, they have an all you can eat sushi menu starting from $55pp with a whole heap of sushi rolls to choose from. One thing I will note is that the service could have been a bit quicker (food arrived approx 25 mins after we placed our order) but other than that an overall positive experience.

Future Future - House baked sourdough shokupan, honey glaze, kare butter $15 🍞 ⭐️ - Hotate (scallop) sando, wasabi mayo, pickled cucumber $16 EA 🥪 - Udon, calamari, white sesame, fermented crispy chili, garlic oil, fried leek, spring onion $29 🍜 🦑 ⭐️ - Pork chashu, sansho lardo, soy jus $30 🐖 - Tiramiso, Meyer lemon, Yuzu, white chocolate crumb $16 🍋 - Melon Cream Highball $24 🍹⭐️ - Midnight Highball $24🍸⭐️ Came here for a chill lunch and was really impressed. The flavours were spot on—balanced and thoughtful, with every dish executed beautifully. The shokupan was a standout: golden, crispy on the outside, and super fluffy inside. The honey glaze and curry butter combo was addictive. Another favourite was the udon. The calamari had the perfect texture and paired so well with the noodles. The garlic oil and fermented chili brought loads of flavour without being too overpowering. Their cocktails are creative and fun—I loved the Melon Cream and Midnight Highballs. Prices are definitely on the higher side, but if you’re in the area, it’s worth checking out.

Future future has been on our list of food places to try for a while. The menu is typical of a new age Japanese or Asian fusion restaurant, playing on the ever so popular Sandos and Wagyu. The Hero dish was definitely the Wagyu flat 🐮. Super soft and cooked to perfection. The Agedashi Tofu and the Kari butter were interesting. Not really sold on the Kari butter. Perhaps the most disappointing were the Sandos. The scallops were big and juicy but the Sando felt more like a nice fillet o fish than a boujee sandwich. Same for the meatballs - it was very very meaty in flavour. The long green beans were undercooked and raw but strangely also nicely charred and smoked. Overall, future future was good but a few of the dishes were not up to expectations. The day was saved with the excellent Wagyu though!

Such a hidden gem in Richmond! I loved the ambience and vibe in the restaurant. Very cosy, intimate and minimal. Food was good! We had the set menu and I loved the duck. Nice service as well. Very valuable Japanese restaurant in Richmond.

Here for a light meal before a concert, and the food came out slower than I would prefer, sad that I had to cancel the hibachi wagyu flank after ordering it for 45mins, because I was running late. However, I must say the food was pretty on point, my favourite was the tuna cold dish that was served with creamy tofu puree.

Future Future is one of the best modern Japanese dining experiences in Melbourne. From the moment you step inside, it feels special – sleek, stylish interiors with a buzzing but relaxed atmosphere. It manages to feel contemporary and fun while still keeping that calm precision you’d expect from a good Japanese restaurant. The food is outstanding. We went with the set menu and were blown away by the variety and quality – beautifully presented dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients with clever flavour combinations. The sashimi was melt-in-your-mouth fresh, the tempura perfectly crisp, and the yakitori skewers full of smoky, savoury flavour. Every dish that arrived felt carefully thought out and balanced. The drinks menu is another highlight. Their sake list is impressive, with helpful recommendations from the staff, and the cocktails are inventive without overshadowing the food. The yuzu-based cocktail I tried was light, refreshing, and perfectly matched with the meal. Service here is impeccable – warm, knowledgeable, and attentive without being intrusive. The staff clearly know the menu well and are happy to guide you through dishes or pairings, which makes the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. Future Future strikes that perfect balance between being a place you’d come for a special night out and somewhere you’d want to return regularly just to enjoy good food done well. Richmond is full of options, but this one stands out as a must-visit for Japanese dining.

This is the best experience dining out so far! Came here with my girl friend for a girls night out & it didn’t disappoint! We had tofu for entree and it was explosive with flavor. The unami and the balance of the taste is crazy! Mains we had the wagyu and pork. We love it sooooo much! It was cooked with perfection and it was easy to eat. Got the Japanese sake for the first time too & I think I have to had a bottle of that in my house hahaha. If I could rate, it will be a 8/5 really

Celebrated our anniversary here. Loved the food & atmosphere. Had the kingfish, oysters, chicken ( loved their smoked mayo), pork & wagyu, Brussel sprouts 🌟 & udon.

With the re-opening of Akaiito, this popular fine dining spot has released an incredible new seasonal Spring omakase at your table dining experience and it is worth every dollar. We tried: 🦐 Amai Ebi 🥩 Wagyu Tartare 🐟 New Zealand King Salmon 🐟 Yellow Tail King Fish 🐠 Patagonian Toothfish 🥚 Chawanmushi 🦐 Queensland King Prawn 🍞 Miso Brioche 🍋 Lemon Granita 🥩 Wagyu Eye Fillet 🍨 Dessert It’s honestly been quite a while since I’ve had a fine dining experience that was this good - every dish was really well executed and so creative. The amai ebi had prawn sashimi on a sourdough bed - the prawn had a subtle sweetness to it and was really fresh. The wagyu tartare was also fresh and served on a yummy potato gratin. Loved the beetroot waffle, which was an absolute work of art, with smoked salmon pate inside - one of my faves! The kingfish was served with a zesty truffle ponzu sauce, while the toothfish was insanely buttery and tender. Their chawanmushi had a subtle truffle flavour and was really silky, while the King prawn had a fragrant smokey charred flavour to it and was served on a bed of risotto. The miso brioche absolutely slapped and was insanely soft and fluffy with an umami miso butter. We got lemon granita as a palette cleanser and the citrus was really refreshing. Their wagyu streak was cooked perfectly medium rare and was very tender and juicy and we finished off with a yummy nashi pear and guava sorbet dessert. Everything in this menu was so enjoyable, highly recommend!

We just had the most incredible 10-course Spring Omakase at your table at Akaiito and honestly… wow, 10/10 🔥😍 This is proper fine dining done perfectly. Every dish is a little masterpiece. Highlights? The prawn risotto that lasted like lobster, the eye fillet so tender and juicy, the hand-cut steak tartare, and… oh my, the decadent caviar truffle French fries - absolutely next level. Everything’s made for sharing, which makes the whole experience even more fun. The vibe is moody, stylish, and the staff are genuinely so warm - refined without ever feeling pretentious. And the best part? Akaiito now has an à la carte menu, so all these amazing dishes are available on their own. Can’t wait to go back already!

What an amazing experience, fine dining at its best! Each dish has been curated perfectly, the atmosphere is phenomenal and their service was top notch! If you’re looking to splurge on a great night out, this is the place! Thanks for the amazing service and for being so accomodating and making us feel at home, we cannot wait to come back 🤩🤩💛💛

Sublime! This meal was a thing of beauty. Delicious, decadent food with world class quality ingredients. A few highlights were the grilled prawn risotto which was so rich bursting with the lobster flavour you dream of with rice that melted in your mouth. The fillet Mignon was so tender, juicy and bursting with flavour. The best part, all the dishes are made for sharing. The staff were warm, genuine and made the whole experience feel effortless and welcoming. It’s refined without ever feeling pretentious. Can’t wait to return.

I was hesitant to visit this place after seeing so many negative reviews on Google, but curiosity got the best of me. Since I had a great experience at Ototo, I decided to give this sister restaurant a try. And wow—this place is an absolute hidden gem! They offer a set menu with 11 courses, and each dish was carefully crafted and beautifully presented. The chef personally introduced every dish, and the quality of ingredients was top-notch. The overall dining experience was simply amazing. I actually wasn’t feeling well that day—my stomach was upset, and I had no appetite. But the fourth course completely changed everything! A refreshing combination of fresh sashimi, crunchy pickled radish, and yuzu dressing somehow revived my appetite instantly. It was like magic! ✨ Must-try dishes: 🍞 Miso Brioche – Super soft and fluffy with a lovely umami flavor. So addictive! 🦐 Prawn Risotto – Tastes like the ocean in a bowl. So fresh and flavorful, with perfectly bouncy prawns! 🦪 Fresh Oysters ($2 each!) – Huge, fresh, and absolutely worth it! 🥩 Beef Short Rib (add-on)– MUST TRY! The most tender beef short rib I’ve ever had. I thought Ototo’s version was already great, but this one took it to another level. ( If you've been hesitant to try this place because of the reviews, trust me—go for it! You might just discover an unexpected treasure like I did. Will definitely be back!

This is the first bad review I’ve left in my life but felt morally obligated. Worst dining experience of my life. My partner & I had the 10 course menu & waited 30-40 minutes between courses; by the 7th course we requested to pay the bill & go home as we had no desire to wait for any further courses. They blamed the slowness on the fact that I had requested a vegan menu (with notification 48 hours in advance) but never experienced this elsewhere & also wouldn’t have booked if they’d let me know it will be 30-40 minutes between courses for the vegan menu. Food was incredibly average & bland, only the first course was decent. One of my courses was what seemed and tasted like store bought bread? My partner got the normal menu & also found the food disappointing. Service was terrible - sometimes the plates would just be plopped on the table without even telling us what they were 😂 The staff seemed miserable. My main arrived cold. Dreary atmosphere with dirty bathrooms smelling of urine. Nothing even close to a fine dining experience. Don’t be fooled by the beautiful pictures - THIS IS NOT FINE DINING.

Had lunch here and it was sensational. Flavours were excellent, beautifully presented and top-notch service. Great, ambient atmosphere. Highly recommend.

If you’re looking for a solid sushi takeaway spot in Melbourne, Hinoki Japanese Pantry in Fitzroy is worth checking out—especially for sushi platters. Not going to lie, when I first opened the box, I wasn’t super impressed with the presentation. It looked a bit more casual than I expected, but by the end of the meal, I honestly wouldn’t change a thing. What really stood out was the quality of the fish—super fresh, and they’re generous with it. They give you more protein than rice, which is the opposite of what a lot of places do. You’re not dealing with huge rice balls and tiny slivers of fish here, which actually makes it a better deal than it first seems (despite the higher price tag). The chirashi bowl was a standout—it’s a great way to try a variety of fish, with nice additions like scallops. If you’re into exploring different textures and flavours, definitely give that one a go. The California and nori maki rolls were decent too—not mind-blowing, but solid. Overall, yeah, it’s on the expensive side, but for Melbourne, I’d say the quality makes it worth it.

If you're craving Japanese sashimi and sushi, I highly recommend this place. It's a shame that takeaway is the only option, but the quality and portion size were excellent for the price. I had this as my first meal after arriving in Melbourne, and it was very satisfying!

Lovely Japanese shop with Japanese groceries, plates and freshly made sushi. We tried the classic nigiri, the rice was delicious and the sashimi was awesome!

Love this place so much! The sushi always hits the spot and tastes so fresh and clean. I always get the large mix nigiri platter between me and my husband 🍣

Highly recommended. 👍 This place is a must visit for us because everything just tastes so good! Especially because we love sashimi a lot & the mochi is worth to try. Groceries stuffs are interesting as well.

My favourite Japanese grocer with an incredible range of products, a great team, and wonderful sashimi grade fish. We recently catered for a party with Hinoki’s sashimi and sushi and everyone was blown away by the quality. Hinoki makes me miss being inJapan a little less!

What an awesome little slice of Japan in Melbourne - fantastic mini supermarket with very authentic items. And the most impressive sushi I have seen locally - all made fresh and seriously like what you get in Japan. Pretty amazing spot that I will go back to

We came here after shopping around in South Yarra and made it just in time for the last service. They were accommodating to our slightly late arrival and made sure to let us know that the kitchen closes at 9:15pm for any last orders. They were helpful to let us know if we ordered enough food for our group. The food was all delicious and the crispy salmon tartare took us by surprise in a good way. I would come back to try the rest of the menu

Went here for dinner booking through firstTable - 50% off food, exclude drinks! so it is worth the experience, we ordered sashimi sushi tofu all is good and fresh. Gyoza also delicious, desserts are good too! Drink 🍷 are good too! Highly recommend to try

Absolutely fabulous food, good service, friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere. Due to the enjoyment of the food was so good so forgotten to take the photos of the main dish (spicy stir fried udon) was amazing dish. The kids enjoyed all of the crispy fried chicken and beautiful sushi with their homemade sause. Will come back soon

A very good experience at Mr Ryu, with a great mix of small to large dishes there is something for everyone. Family was very happy with the Nori Taco and the Spicy Tuna Sashima Taco great twist on two classic items, really enjoyed the crunch with each bite. Can’t go wrong with the Beef Ribs and the surprise dish of the night was the crispy sushi tartare very tasty dish. Cocktails and mocktail list has plenty of choice as well so you will find something that suits your taste. Parking around the area can be tough to find but there are some parking lots behind the shops if you arrive early enough to pick one up.

An impromptu decision to have sushi for dinner struck this evening and I must say, very pleased with where we ended up. A very calm and serene atmosphere greeted us upon arrival with the friendly hostess seating us promptly. Starting off with drinks, a Japanese Long Island Ice Tea and the Passionfruit Mojito (w rum) (my favourite of the night!) followed by some very delicious food. Highly recommend getting the Spicy edamame! Everything was very enjoyable, from the Kingfish with Coconut cream sashimi to the Salmon tacos and the Spicy Prawn Sushi. Nothing was left on our plates by the end of it, not even the ginger! If you find yourself in Toorak, this is one piece you definitely want to visit!

ORDERED: 🌮  Spicy Tuna Sashimi Taco: avruga caviar, saltbush, lemongrass mayo ($16.00) 🍣  Prawn Nori Taco: tobiko, saltbush, spicy thousand island ($16.00) 🍣  Chilli Kingfish Sashimi Nori Taco: avruga caviar, lime leaf, apple ($17.00) 🍣  Aburi Salmon Roll: kingfish, tobiko, spicy thousand island ($20.00) 🍝  Spicy Mentai Yaki Udon: charred prawn, spring onion, roasted nori ($23.00) 🍝  Ramen Gnocchi: reggiano, cheddar crisps, spicy cream, spring onion ($24.00) 🥗   Greentea soba salad: cucumber, shallot, broccoli, sesame dressing ($15.00) 🍦 Black sesame ice cream ($5.00) I paid $87.27 for my portion which included a drink and the card surcharge. REVIEW: The mains were the best part of Mr Ryu. Really interesting twists on classic dishes, which brought so much flavour and intrigue. 💖 The Ramen Gnocchi was my favourite. Slightly crispy on the sides, with a softness in the middle... the creaminess of the dish and the addictive savoury cheddar crisps kept me looking for crumbs!! The udon was also great. My dinner partner liked this the most. 💙  I was very thankful we also ordered the refreshing soba salad to break up the incredible creaminess coming off from both of the main noodle dishes. ➖  The entrees were a little lacking for me, compared to the mains. ✔️ The best one was the Chilli Kingfish Sashimi Nori Taco because it had more of a flavour profile from the spiciness, to the slight saltiness of the caviar. ❌  The other two options (prawn nori taco, and spicy tuna taco) were a little too plain for my liking. Service was friendly. I enjoyed the music they played... really modern Japanese type pop coming through. It suited the fusion nature of Mr Ryu really well! 🎵

Small Japanese restaurant with bar seating downstairs and table service upstairs. Because the space is small, the wood decor made it feel homey and intimate. We ordered a number of dishes and most of them are great. Would definitely recommend the fried chicken and the soba salad. Service was lovely and fairly quick as well. Food - 8 Service - 9 Vibe - 8 Price - $$

🌟4.5 To be honest, I felt the course had a bit too much nigiri. It might be worth considering adding 1-3 more sashimi instead. While nigiri does help fill you up with rice, some customers might feel it’s not as valuable. I wasn’t a fan of the clam broth or miso soup—both felt boring, nothing special. The duck breast was well-prepared, yet the tofu paste accompaniment felt out of place. The pickled ginger leaned slightly on the sweet side for me, but that’s just a personal preference. Chawanmushi, tuna belly, and sea urchin stood out—especially the melt-in-your-mouth tuna belly. The other dishes pictured below were delightful as well ☺️ All the ingredients throughout the meal were fresh and of top quality 💯 Nama chocolate was pleasant, though I preferred the sorbet from my previous visit. Service was impeccable—both the chef and staff were attentive and engaging. The chef even remembered me despite the long gap since my last visit. Would come back again :)

Loved this sophisticated little venue with a very calming ambiance. Quality produce served with great execution of techniques used by skilled chefs. Every plate put forth was explained in great lengths and the efforts were not lost on me. The lunch was most enjoyable. Thank-you for the exceptional hospitality.

Aoi Tsuki went beyond our expectations! The flavours, the seasoning, the friendly interaction with the chefs, the ambiance - every aspect of the experience was amazing. We are always on the lookout for great omakase in Melbourne, and we’ve found a place we will be returning to.

Probably the nicest Japanese dining experience in Melbourne. Good location with parking next door. Cosy ambience. The best and most warm staff and chef. Food is exquisite Memorable meal to celebrate my birthday !

I went to this Omakase for my birthday celebration, and we absolutely loved it! Everything was amazing!!! The food was fresh and delicious, and the vibe was just perfect. The staff were professional, friendly, and welcoming, and the chefs were so nice and skilled. We really enjoyed our time here and would definitely come back again!

We dined at Aoi Tsuki during our trip to Melbourne. It was an experiential dining masterclass and felt almost theatrical from the way each guest was ushered in from the foyer to the dining area. There aren't any freestanding tables - everyone is seated around the chefs, and every seat is catered to with the same level of individual care. The waiters are invisible unless you need them, upon which they appear before you call - they are attentive, anticipative, and unintrusive - refilling beverages, clearing plates and placing the appropriate cutlery for the next course barely noticeably. It wasn't the decadence of truffle chawanmushi, grated foie gras on wagyu, smoked duck, the caviar, and the almost mandatory presence of bluefin tunas that you expect at this level of restaurants that impressed me the most. While appreciated and expected, I find them all too cliche and 'safe'. It was the innovative dishes - like the King George Whiting nigiri (topped with sesame) - that really made this place distinctly singular. This particular fish is endemic to the south coast of Australia, and it shows the chefs' understanding of the region's ingredients and their respect for locality. The sesame was a great touch and it's this type of signature creativity I'd like to see more of. The abalone, and its rendered liver, mixed together with rice, was another favourite - hints of overlap with Korean cuisine that we appreciated. My favourite part of the experience was the interactiveness. The chefs were conversational ("one bite please!") and always available to answer questions or fine-tune seasonings to preference, and my post-meal chat with the chef is one of the most memorable points of my entire trip. Thank you for generously and unguardedly sharing your insights, and for the skillful care and intention with which you served us.

We celebrated our anniversary here at Aoi Tsuki. We received about almost 20 courses with an option to add the Sea Urchin sushi, which we did and it was delightful. That extra Sea Urchin course was $30pp and it was totally worth it. My partner and I had no issues paying what we paid for the dinner Omakase because the quality of seafood, customer service and atmosphere was as good as it gets. For what you get, it works out to be very reasonable per course. The only thing was that we wish there were more to choose from on the drinks menu. But this was understandable considering we were here for the food and not an exhaustive cocktail/drinks list. This didn’t affect our evening as the drinks we ordered were also great. We ordered 2 glasses of sake, which went quite nicely with our food. The chef was lovely, always starting conversation with the customers which made the experience much more memorable. Our waiters were also very lovely, they remembered that we booked this dinner in advance for our anniversary and acknowledged that it was a special occasion for us. Thank you to the team at Aoi Tsuki for making our anniversary night so special. 🩷

My first omakase experience and it didn’t disappoint- felt like being in reverence at the temple of food. The chef was constantly preparing dishes in front of us. Freshness and flavours are king. With only another group of 3 present we practically had undivided attention from the staff. The wine list won’t disappoint if you like sake that comes from many different districts and many styles. Expert guidance is available. There is even Japanese wine available. Memorable experience

First time trying the omakase at Shusai Mijo, at $180 per person it was a solid option. The menu included a variety of seafood from various regions. They were fresh and prepared well. The sake pairing was quite good with a mixture of different regions, filtered and non-filtered types to suit the pairing of light and strong flavoured courses. The chef exhibited solid techniques but compared to other top-end omakase counters there were arguably some improvements e.g. sushi rice came off the nigiri, seaweed was not crunchy and there was a piece sashimi with some fish tendon. Overall, we enjoyed the experience though.

We booked a sitting here for my husbands birthday. The food was incredible, the staff were attentive and had in-depth knowledge of all the Ingredients, and the space itself was beautiful. Everything was of impeccable quality and artfully presented. It was a super memorable experience.

Shusai Mijo offer a $180 omakase experience that includes all the essentials: appetisers, sashimi, a steamed dish, 10 pieces of sushi, dessert, and a few seasonal specials. The appetiser plate (zensai) was beautifully presented with mackerel, tamago, tofu, and black cod, all thoughtfully balanced. The sashimi course featured a smoked tuna that had a gorgeous depth of flavour. The swordfish came with a miso sauce that paired nicely, and the sea bream was fresh and clean. The chawanmushi was topped with prawn, unagi, and monkfish liver - visually stunning, especially the delicate zucchini detail - though I found the flavour slightly lacking in umami. We had 10 pieces in total. The New Zealand blue-eye was fresh and delicate. The paradise prawn didn’t blow me away, but the size was generous. The Tasmanian tuna was rich and flavourful. The torched scallop from Japan had a beautiful smoky touch, though it was a little muted in flavour. The steamed oyster gunkan was simple but well-executed, and the saltwater eel was incredibly delicate - I actually preferred it over traditional unagi. The kingfish had a subtle soy and ginger glaze that worked really well. The A5 Wagyu nigiri was as expected, buttery, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth good. We also had a matsutake soup served between courses, which was light and packed with umami. The New Zealand king salmon was lovely, though the caviar on top lacked that salty pop I was hoping for. We finished the sushi course with otoro, which I personally never tire of. We added the sea urchin gunkan for $25, partly because we wanted to try it, partly because I wasn’t full yet (lol). For dessert, we had warabi mochi and a monaka biscuit with matcha ice cream, simple but a nice finish to the meal. Overall, Shusai Mijo offers a beautifully presented and balanced omakase that’s more laid-back than others around Melbourne, but still refined. For the price point, I think it’s a solid option if you're after an intimate and chill omakase experience without the formality.

Excellent fresh fish from local and nearby countries, and Japanese specialities 😊 my experience here was thoroughly enjoyed with the chutoro tuna and various fresh sashimi selections being the highlight. Very beautiful environment and atmosphere - my only critique would be to check the price of sparkling water first ;)

Visited a few months ago and had the sushi omakase which included several dishes leading up to the ten piece sushi course. I went for an early session on a weekday so I was lucky to have the restaurant to myself which took a little over an hour to finish (usually will be longer). The chef was friendly and engaging and the staff was attentive, keeping the water refilled as needed so the dining experience was enjoying throughout the course. Everything was delicious; ingredients were fresh and it was a bonus that a lot of the ingredients were sourced from Japan such as yellowtail fish, snapper, scallop, oyster, wagyu and fatty tuna. Some of the highlights were the sweet egg castella and the black cod from the appetisers, the chawanmushi with plenty of seafood toppings, and the oyster sushi which was unique and not commonly served as nigiri in other sushi restaurants.

An absolutely incredible evening with a small troupe of people witnessing the amazing chef at work. Each bite is better than the last and the sake pairing was exquisite. Blown away by the price point of $180 for dinner and we didn’t go hungry. Will be back!

The staff were so lovely and the food was fantastic. By far the standout for me was the dessert, the best Panna Cotta I've ever had. We also had the set menu and every dish was beautiful (in appearance and taste). Definitely enough food, we left full and happy!

The super cute waiter said I didn't have a reservation. He asked me if I wanted a low table? Or a high table? I saw the biggest table inside, and he gave me the big table. Lucky 🍀The highlight is that every dish is really made with care and delicious.

End of an era but thanks for the memories! Always loved coming here for their tartare, den chicken, corn and nice to try their newer items. Lychee cocktail was my absolute favourite and the cod with butter was so tasty. Good luck to the team on their next adventure

Would give 6 star to their service if I can. I start dining at this place since 2012. Their menu changes over time but the good taste never changes. Recommend dishes (must order!!!) for current menu - beef cheek 🥳 Plus, their bartender is very talent, feel free to challenge him 😝 I asked for “surprise me” and he serve more than a “surprise” 😌 Truely made my night out.

A friend treated me to dinner here. Hidden away, I never would have found it, which makes it so exciting. I was like, where are we going?! The atmosphere was perfect, and the service was beyond amazing. We got the person in charge to choose our meals for the night, and every one of them are something I wouldn't have chosen personally by reading what it's called, but after tasting them I was blown away. I hate mushrooms, the first thing I had was some mushroom dish, and it was my favourite. It was the best damn thing I've ever had. Everything I ate that night was amazing.

MELBOURNE!! PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT!! Do yourself and all your loved ones a treat, a food experience you will not soon forget and be telling everyone you know about. The crew hear are making magic happen. 😍🥰🤤 places like this will bring crowds back into the CBD once again

Love this place and vibe! We ordered a tuna tataki, it’s ok. Oolong tea+peach+tea, it’s taste like water, don’t recommend. However, chicken wing and slow cooked beef cheek is the highlight! Chicken wing is so crunchy outside and soft&hot inside, love it!!! Slow cooked beef probably is the best texture of beef I have ever tried, the meat just melted in my mouth. It is highly recommended. At last, dessert, combination of mandarin and tea ice cream is just taste so good together! I would def come back if they have more various of food!😍⭐️

The place is really cool, with lots of inspiration in Japan. Our waiter was very nice and always with a smile on his face. We ordered the takoyaki (ok for me, but I’m not a fan of octupus), the okonomyaki (different from the ones we had in Japan, and it seemed that it took a lot of potato), the soft shell crab baos (I think it was a bit of disappointing, it lacked flavour) and the volcano rolls (these ones were incredible! Highly recommend). For dessert the matcha creme bruleé, very nice and dense.

We had dinner here on a busy Friday night and were impressed by the excellent service. It was attentive and efficient despite the crowd. Unfortunately, the food didn’t live up to expectations. For the price point, the dishes were mediocre at best. The only standout was the ebi mayo, everything else was quite underwhelming. On a brighter note, the cocktails were exceptional and truly the highlight of our evening.

What a cool spot! The food was spectacular, the service was great, and the vibes were awesome. Don’t be fooled by the small-looking front entrance—step inside and take a look. And make sure to bring your appetite for Japanese food

Amazing customer service. Excellent presentation. The array we tried were all yummy. Teriyaki chicken had the right balance of flavours. Sashimi sampling is a must. Just two of the many great dishes we tried.

This restaurant has been our go-to restaurant for the past 2 Christmas’s. We love the vibe of the restaurant and variety in the menu. This year we enjoyed the $75 banquet of 8 dishes. It includes a great variety of dishes including seafood, meat & chicken and leaves you very full. My favourite dish was the lobster sushi and sashimi beef. I do wish the dessert was a bit light and not as rich in sweetness.

I had such a lovely experience here last night. We ordered the $95 banquet and we were absolutely stuffed by the end of it. The staff were lovely. The food quality was amazing and overall I had a great experience. The venue itself is really cool and I would highly recommend visiting this place! See you soon :)

Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya is truly a hidden gem in Fitzroy! Don't be fooled by the modest entrance - once inside, the space opens up into a surprisingly spacious venue with multiple areas including a stunning courtyard with a retractable glass ceiling. We opted for the set menu, which turned out to be an excellent decision. Every dish from start to finish was exceptional. The gyu tataki (beef tataki) was perfectly prepared - the meat was incredibly soft and tender, complemented by a refreshing sauce that balanced the richness beautifully. The tori teriyaki was another standout - the chicken was remarkably tender with a wonderful smoky flavour that showed their skill with the robata grill. What made the experience even better was the super friendly staff who were attentive and knowledgeable throughout our meal. They provided excellent service without rushing us, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The restaurant blends traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary twists, and it's clear why it's considered one of the best Japanese dining spots in Melbourne. Whether you're a sushi lover or looking to explore more diverse Japanese dishes, Ichi Ni Nana delivers on all fronts. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a memorable Japanese dining experience in Fitzroy!

Probably the cheapest sushi spot in town. Used to be $2.50 per roll, but now $3. Still cheaper than the rest and the quality is really good. 2 rolls for lunch is a decent and satisfying meal tbh. Service is really quick. I suggest the fried chicken and smoked salmon.

This place appears to be a good location for enjoying sushi within the city. They present a diverse selection of sushi options at a reasonable cost. The food was quite delicious, and the service was friendly. The only potential drawback is the limited seating available for dining in.

Portion size is so good for $2.50 a roll. I pay up to $5 a roll elsewhere and it looks so stingy compared to Tokui Sushi. They have a bench with soy sauce bottles if you want to sit and dine but I imagine it gets busy during the lunch rush as the bar seats only sit up to 5 people. Surcharge when paying with card - 4 rolls will cost you $10.13.

Cheap cheap eats in Melbourne. Easy for a quick meal/lunch/breakfast. Not much selection of seafood. The salmon, tuna, unigi and fried chicken soy sauce is yummy. The shop is small so during lunch time will be limited space and a long line. The staff is consistently trained, very friendly.

The Mog Champ sends his regards. Have heard about some affordable sushi from Tokui Sushi and decided to give them a go for lunch today. All their rolls were $3 which were definitely cheaper than other sushi chains in the area. Went with their teriyaki beef, teriyaki chicken and Unagi. Definitely could have fit a bit more specially with the generously-priced rolls but they are enough for your average lunch. Plenty of protein and carbs to last your afternoon/evening. Thanks for the sushi, Tokui! Mogliest Regards, Your Mog Champ

one of the best tuna rolls I've ever ate for MIND BOGGLING $3.00. UNMATCHED PRICE IN THE CITY! Thanks to the great service of the lady with the short hair, I had to leave a review for arguably the best handroll in the city

Got sushi from here and asked for just cucumber sushi for my son and they made it fresh, we really appreciated it! Thankyou so much our son ate every bite. The seaweed wrap was really tasty!

It's unbelievable how underrated this restaurant is! Wakenbo, this elegant contemporary Japanese restaurant, is hidden down a side street in Fitzroy. Chef Kenji and his wife Noriko showcase unique inventive dishes using Japanese vegetables and herbs they grow in their own garden - fermenting, smoking, dehydrating, and air-drying them themselves. It's a no brainer that they put all their efforts in their dishes (which change regularly)! We grabbed Chef's Selection Omakase. We got Mix Appetisers and several popular menu items which I can't remember anymore 😂 They were all incredibly delicious. It was clear that the chef really tried to bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient. I have to say the service here was top-tier and absolutely exemplary. It was a busy night but Noriko still managed to serve us with a beautiful smile on her face, describing each dish in a kind comforting manner. Thank you for a memorable night, I can’t wait to come back! - #melbfoodiemark #Wakenbo

This restaurant was one of the best Japanese dining experiences I've ever had. We ordered the kaiseki meal and it was amazing. Every dish exceeded my expectations, And was well with the price we paid. It was a 6 cost meal but it came with 7 dishes which was a surprise. Each dish was very filling and of high quality. We were pretty full after too! I cant believe the range of food we got for how much we paid, every dish was meticulously put together. I HIGHLY recommend Wakenbo! I would definitely come back and get the kaiseki meal again 😋 One of the best meals I've ever had!

One of the best Japanese restaurants I have been given to eat at. The cuisine is inventive, beautifully presented and has a great combination of flavors and textures. Like the cuisine, the interrior is decorated with exquisite taste. The waitress had a heart of gold, and even gifted me my second desert. She made my dinner memorable with her kind, sincere attention. I cannot recommend this restaurant enough.

Tucked away in a small street underneath an apartment complex off Victoria street lies this small gem. This small semi-fine dining restaurant sits around 25 pax serving Japanese food. The dishes have great presentation although lacking anything special that elevate the flavours. Interior have been designed immaculately in modern and romantic style. Food - 7 Service - 10 Vibe - 10 Price - $$$$$

Give this place a shot if you're after a fine dining Japanese fusion food. Everything was immaculate from the ambience, service and to the food! There is nothing that I can fault at all. Ordered the Omakase Kaiseki 6 course degustation set. Must I say everything served was perfection! You can tell that the chef and the floor staffs are passionate about their food and it shows in each course served. Food was delicious and artistically presented. Thanks Wekenbo for giving our family such a memorable experience! We will definitely be back! Their menu changes every 4 weeks. Be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment!

Wonderful Japanese restaurant. Recommend by a Japanese friend. The food was very traditional with modern presentation. It was fantastic 😍😍😍 highly recommended!!! Yummy sake options too!!

My Japanese friend had told me about this place a while back. Finally got a chance to go there for a dinner. The owners : husband and wife, Kenji and Noriko. Very warm and friendly people. The place itself so cute and has beautiful interior. I've been craving Japanese hot pot. We've ordered the seafood sake hot pot and pork belly. The portions are pretty descent .. and the our meals were so tasty! I didn't realise this place has been around for around a year. If you love Japanese cuisine, you should add this place into your list.

My first time coming here and this Japanese grocer made me so happy. We saw so many Japanese items that we love using. We also took away some of their bento. Unfortunately, some pieces of the salmon wasn't as fresh and the unagi was a bit tough and had lots of bones. Otherwise the prawns with tobiko was delicious. I will come back to get my Japanese essentials next time.

The sushi and sashimi here is super fresh. Probably one of the best place that I have ever tried. I love the grilled eel don and chirashi here. Highly recommend to preorder as they are so busy even it is already passed the lunch time

Always good place for shopping for Japanese products. Staff very kindly and helpful. Sushi 🍣 here is the best. They have 1 kg.Japanese curry 🍛 sale here. Priced are lovely. My kids love ❤️ it.

Great place to go if you’re looking for niche Japanese pantry staples that aren’t available in your typical asian grocery.

Authentic Japanese!! 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻 Sashimi was super fresh and such a good deal. Service was quick too!

The Sushi in this unassuming strip shop in Camberwell is absolutely fantastic!! Hands down, the best I’ve had in Melbourne, so fresh! I’ve had it numerous times, and it’s always up to muster. There is also a small Japanese supermarket attached with lots to try.

Can’t believe I got this for such a worthy price! Really nice quality and enough amount! It’s my favorite sushi restaurant in Melbourne so far!!!

I recently tried this Japanese restaurant and really enjoyed the hot dishes 😊 they were fresh, flavourful, and comforting. The desserts were okay, not the highlight, but still a nice finish to the meal. Service was friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better! I love exploring Melbourne eats, and this one is worth trying if you are after Japanese hot food 😋

Dined here yesterday for an early dinner, walked past here a number of times and had it in my list to try. Food was fantastic, had the edamame, salmon sashimi, chargrilled kingfish wing, yakitori meatball, squid, steak, pumpkin and a couple of drinks. Service was great, food all had a nice Smokey/wood fire flavour. Highly recommend! We sat facing outside the restaurant to flinders st and it felt as if we were the only ones in the restaurant. Great experience!

Cool little spot with a fun Japanese vibe and those neon-style light signs that make it feel cozy. The waiter was super nice and explained the menu well, but honestly, it took a bit too long before I could place my order. As for the food, the flavors were a little under-seasoned for my taste, and the portions felt small compared to the price. Overall, it was okay, not mind-blowing, but worth trying once. The drink menu, however, is impressive and has plenty of variety, which is a big plus.

An absolute standout of our recent Melbourne trip. Service was exceptional and all the food was very tasty. Well worth a visit. Interesting sake list available in various sizes, I recommend the “Honjozo” as a great all rounder to complement the food.

Robata ticks most of the usual boxes for a Melbourne CBD restaurant: fancy interior design, solid wine list and well trained staff with some banter at the ready. Food was a bit of a let down with most dishes fairly average, one good (the tsukune, aka chicken meatball) and one seafood item not fresh. Nothing exceptional apart from one of the sakés. The not fresh dish was struck off the bill so while a negative for food that's a positive for the service.

Had an amazing dining experience at Robata. Rhia was very friendly and helpful, she recommended a few dishes and every single one turned out to be enjoyable. The service was warm and attentive, and the food was delicious. Highly recommended! ! Dont skip the dessert and try something new

Delicious food, they went above and beyond for us. Each day waitress wished us a happy anniversary and they did extra things to go the extra mile to make our night special. We had booked the window seating and it really set the scene and felt more private and like we were in our own space even though it was on the main floor. Massive kudos to our waiter Liam - he was phenomenal looking after us. Great customer service skills, we had a few laughs and he always checked in on us. We did the Directors Cut set menu and our only thing we could critique on was that we would have liked a bit more seasoning of just basic salt on the steak both skewer and main, even if just offered on the side. We are glad we choose Robata to celebrate our anniversary and we would definitely come back again. Great hospitality.

The guy manager was very attentive and very nice, and the short hair waitress was always smiling throughout the night. She definitely made our night! All the food tasted great, thought the yellow fin tuna tartare had a little too much overpowering seasoning that we can't taste the fish much And the Otoro was not fatty enough, barely had any fat on it which was disappointing. However everything else tasted good

Be prepared to be blown away by impeccable food, presentation and service. Bansho completely surpassed my expectations. The food was SO incredibly tasty and delicious, but also fresh and delicate and presented so beautifully. I pretty much can't fault a thing (other than the fact they don't have regular Coca Cola). The service was great and friendly and everything was efficient. I highly recommend the Salmon Tartare; it was scrumptious. And as delicious as the trout was, it was the Miso Veloute and Dill Oil that stole the show. That sauce was so incredible that I could have just ordered it in a bowl and drunk it with a straw. For dessert I had Pavlova, and it was phenomenal. Inside is a clean, fresh and refreshing lemon sorbet with a rhubarb base with citrus segments in it. It was almost too pretty to eat, but I had to get that in my belly as I couldn't wait to try. Be warned though, that this is a bit of a pricey restaurant, and not the kind of place you go to on a Tuesday night for kicks (unless you're wealthy). Unsure if the prices were just a tad too high, or the portions were a tad too little, but I could have eaten more. You're probably not going to roll out of there super full. With that all said, I am so very glad I found Bansho. If you love Japanese, and want to try upscale, fine dining, this is the place to go. It's my absolute new fave and I cannot wait for another special occasion just to come back here again.

Bansho is an Armadale local gem, with an inventive Japanese-French lean. The food is consistently good, and the service is warm and lovely as well. Strangely enough, one of our favorite dishes is the side of brussel sprouts - so good. The beef croquettes are a winner, and the duck is tasty too. Would recommend this place for a great dining experience.

We had a great experience at Bansho. The atmosphere was very warm and welcoming, and the staff were extremely attentive and accommodating. The croquettes were the star of the night, and the Macha and Hojicha desserts were phenomenal. In terms of room for improvement: we did find ourselves waiting quite awhile between dishes, and the sides (crispy brussels sprouts and sautéed mushrooms) were both a little over salted. Overall it was a great night and we are looking forward to coming back to try the rest of the menu

Good pick in ingredients, but taste was average. Some of the dishes were quite heavy which means to be lighter. I won’t recommend their duck breast.

Bansho recently received one hat from the Good Food Guide - so it was a must try for us - especially for since it was an interesting combo of French and Japanese cruisine! Let's start with the food we had: Edamame - Grilled! Nicely grilled with some smokey flavour to it. Next level Edamame. Dobin Mushi - Just like drinking Dashi soup! Yum. Wagyu Beef Skewers - These were ok, nothing special. Creamy Mayo? Aburi Scallops - Yum again nicely grilled. Chawanmushi - A creamy Chawanmushi - interesting experience Beef Croquette - ok, nothing to shout home about Duck Breast - Good falvour Angus Steak - tender, taste was ok Wagyu Steak - super soft and fat, melts in your mouth A5 Waygu Sushi - Quit expensive for one sushi and was ok. Brussel Sprouts - Yum! Desserts - These were amazing. Choux Matcha, Creme Brulee, Bombe Alaska. Service: Service was ok, attentive at the start but as the night went on we felt like we kept being asked if we needed to order anything else (about 3-4x in a span of 5mins each) and it felt like they wanted us to leave? Odd as we checked and there was no seating after us and there were others still seated.

The food and service were average. I had better ones with the same price. Restaurant was new and nice.

The sashimi was so fresh and great quality! We can choose the fresh sashimi from the shelf, there are many options such as Tuna, salmon, scallops and white fish then kitchen staff cut the fish with beautiful presentation. We had a great time in Tsukiji Restaurant! Thank you.

Like always, fresh sashimi, quick service, no waiting. Love how you can pick what you want and they’ll cut it up for you. We also had the assorted tempura, served hot and batter was just perfect. The atmosphere is very casual. The self serve water station had cups but they were all wet.

Highly recommended for fresh seafood experience! You get to bring your own wine and even pick your fish from the fridge, which the chef then turns into an amazing sashmi plate. It's super cool being able to choose perfect size of fish for yourself. They also have regular Japanese dishes on the menu. We chose King fish, ocean trout, and blue eye for our sashmi, along with tempura and salmon aburi. The sashimi was incredibly fresh, the tempura light and crispy, and the aburi perfectly torched and seasoned. Overall, it's a chill spot with great value for money.

This is my favourite sashimi place , the food here is so gorgeous! I love the vibe in this restaurant, if you want to try it, come it at around 6.10pm because they have many customers! I love it, definitely recommend it to everyone to try it!

If you're craving an authentic Japanese dining experience, this restaurant is a must-visit. The sashimi is incredibly fresh, practically melting in your mouth with each bite. You can really taste the quality of the fish, as it's carefully sourced and served at the perfect temperature. The flavors are spot-on, with delicate seasoning that lets the natural taste of the seafood shine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, adding to the overall traditional feel. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or just looking for an authentic Japanese meal, this place delivers on both quality and authenticity. Highly recommend!

This is used to be my favorite sashimi place for many years. From this year, or even 2024, although the presentation is still good, but the taste is not. Very disappointing.

One unique but best asset of Tsukiji is the ability to pick and choose your own seafood. Most seafood options are priced well varying the size and type of cut. If you know which ones are most fresh you would get the most out of this restaurant. Decent price, presentation is lovely. The sashimi we pick out have been quite fresh and tasty! Would recommend for those who love seafood! But it’s definitely a tip to know which one seafood to pick based on freshness to really get your bang for your buck.

⸻ I had the most wonderful omakase experience at Uminono for the first time, and it exceeded all expectations. Chef Greg was incredibly knowledgeable and so easy to talk to, which made the evening even more enjoyable. The fish was exceptionally fresh, and every dish struck a perfect balance of flavors with creative combinations that worked beautifully together. You can really taste the passion and thought in each bite. I’d highly recommend Uminono to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience—it’s the kind of place that leaves you already planning your next visit. 🌸🍣

Absolutely loved the experience here! Had a lovely chat with chef Greg, and just look at how gorgeous the pieces are! I’m so impressed!!! Definitely worth a visit, and I will be coming back for sure!☺️☺️

Uminono Omakase isn’t just a meal — it’s a full-blown fish revelation. Every piece is dry-aged and brushed with varying nikiri(?), like the chef’s way of saying, “Yes, I care more about this tuna than you care about your career.” The kinmedai was the headliner — rich, slightly chewy, and basically what I imagine enlightenment tastes like. The chef was warm, knowledgeable and clearly a fish whisperer. You can taste the obsession in every bite. And then came the dessert. I expected the usual token scoop of something cold. Instead, I got a mind-blowing warm-cold, crunchy-smooth, sweet-tart masterpiece. Honestly, I’d come back just for that. If I have one complaint, it’s that I left wishing the omakase was twice as long — but maybe that’s just gluttony talking. 5/5

I just wanted to share how wonderful my experiences have been at this Japanese sashimi restaurant. I’ve been there twice now — the first time I ordered an Omakase box for takeaway, and this time I decided to dine in. Both experiences were absolutely fabulous. I’d love to highlight Kiki, the sommelier — she’s a Taiwanese girl who is so professional (really, full of professionalism!), detail-oriented, and interacts with guests beautifully. She recommended perfectly matched wine pairings that made the meal even more memorable. Her knowledge and warm service truly stand out. The entire team is fantastic as well — attentive, friendly, and always making sure every detail is right. Whether it’s takeaway or dining in, they consistently deliver an amazing experience. Highly recommend this place if you’re looking for fresh sashimi, thoughtful pairings, and outstanding service. I can’t wait to come back again!

This was our very first omakase experience, and we couldn’t have picked a better place. The 13-course menu was beautifully curated: it started with a comforting housemade dashi and starter, followed by nine pieces of nigiri and a handroll, and finished with a French-inspired dessert. Every course felt intentional and thoughtful. Our favourites were the alfonsino, the otoro, and the chutoro (an extra we just had to add). We also enjoyed chatting with chef-owner Arnaud. His passion comes through in everything—from sourcing and dry-ageing the seafood to the way he’s designed the space to feel warm and welcoming. A special mentions to Kiki, the sake sommelier, who introduced us to some delicious and unique pairings that elevated the whole experience. For a first omakase, it was the perfect mix of down-to-earth and refined. We left full, happy, and already excited to try their premium sushi takeaway boxes soon.

Top 3 Omakase within Melbourne IMO. However, on this occasion my partner and I choose to order takeaway. The celebration box is immaculate, every piece is crafted superbly, flavours fresh and balanced. Total price is $345 but you get 48 nigiri and 32 maki. Can't go wrong with Uminono and definitely worth a try.

I’ve been obsessed with uminono since my 1st visit during mid-August. Re-visited 2 weeks after 1st visit, then brought my friend here yesterday for lunch and we were so happy and satisfied. Uminono never disappoints and is legit my current favorite place for high quality yet reasonably priced omakase in Melbourne! The dashi, entrée, nigiris, and hand roll were top-notch, but the dessert is to die for!! 🤤 The sashimi and anago chirashi takeaways were awesome as well 🤌🏻 I will be coming back regularly… hope the team won’t get tired of seeing me constantly haha😝

Tried this place twice, first time around the food was warm and the fish was fresh. Everything tasted amazing. The second time around, the quality and freshness of the exact same sushi dishes was questionable and definitely was pre-made as it wasn't warm. Nevertheless the food tasted good, but the made to order dishes should be served warm as it makes a world of difference in the taste.

The food was absolutely amazing, so fresh and full of flavor. The smaller portion sizes were a great touch, allowing us to try and enjoy more of our favorite dishes. The delivery system for table service was innovative and added a unique touch to the experience. Hands down, my new favourite restaurant in Melbourne.

Easily the classiest sushi train in Melbourne. The vibe is impeccable and so is the sushi. Pricier than some of the competition, but worth every cent

Really like the food and atmosphere. I have hundreds of photos. I like to have a drink and salmon after a long day of work. Really released my stress. Eating salmon is good for my health.😆

I always have a fantastic dining experience at Sakura Kaiten Sushi on Lonsdale Street. The atmosphere is relaxing and inviting, with the sushi train providing an entertaining and engaging way to enjoy a meal. The sushi is exceptionally fresh and delicious. The menu offers a diverse range of options, from classic nigiri and sashimi to innovative rolls and unique creations. I particularly enjoy the seared salmon nigiri, which melted in my mouth, and the spicy salmon, which had just the right amount of kick. What sets Sakura Kaiten Sushi apart for me is the quality and variety of their dishes, paired with friendly and attentive service. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Overall, Sakura Kaiten Sushi is a must-visit for sushi lovers and anyone looking to enjoy high-quality Japanese cuisine in a fun and dynamic setting. It is one of my go to restaurants for lunch whenever I am at that end of the CBD.

I recently visited Sakura Kaiten Sushi on Little Collins Street, conveniently located next to Caretaker's Cottage, and was thoroughly impressed by the experience. The sushi train offered a wide variety of fresh and flavorful options, each plate more enticing than the last. The presentation was impeccable, and the quality of the ingredients was evident in every bite. One of the highlights was the soft shell crab temaki roll, which featured crispy, golden crab enveloped in a delicate soybean sheet. The combination of textures and flavors was outstanding, making it a must-try item. Additionally, the eggplant dish was a delightful surprise, offering a tender and savory experience that complemented the other selections perfectly. The ambiance of the restaurant is cozy and inviting, with attentive staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The combination of traditional sushi offerings and innovative creations caters to both purists and adventurous eaters alike. It's clear why Sakura Kaiten has become a staple in Melbourne's sushi scene. For anyone seeking an authentic and enjoyable sushi train experience in the heart of Melbourne, Sakura Kaiten Sushi is a must-visit destination.

Best sushi train in melbourne!! and i have been to a lot . A must get would be the seared scallop nigiri.

Very exciting experience! The material is fresh and the flavors are innovated. We were afraid of the portion won’t fill, but turned out to be perfect! Chef Patrick is very talkative and talented. And the price is pretty good compared to other Ōmakase restaurants in Melbourne. Very recommended to visit! Also! Remember to book on their website ahead of time!

Rōnin Omakase isn’t your traditional omakase — it’s got its own ballsy, creative take, and I was all for it. I came in knowing it wouldn’t be the usual formal, quiet omakase setup, and it turned out to be a super fun, flavour-packed experience from start to finish. The food itself was really solid — I’ve definitely had more refined dishes elsewhere, but the flavour combinations and creativity here were next-level. Every course had a good rhythm to it, and there were definitely flavours I’ve never experienced before in an omakase. Some of the simpler dishes ended up being the best — the steamed egg and anything involving a broth were lights out, pure comfort food done with precision. The fish slider with caviar was another highlight, and the interactive element made it even better. The chef is the star of the show — full of energy, genuinely passionate, and you can tell he’s having fun while cooking. It’s that enthusiasm that makes the whole experience feel personal and entertaining. If I had one minor thing, I’d say the scallop dish could’ve been toned down a touch on the sauces just to let that fresh texture shine through — but overall, this was one of the most enjoyable omakase experiences I’ve had in Melbourne. Not traditional, but seriously memorable.

Absolutely BUSSSSSSS I’ve been 3 times - twice for dinner and once for lunch. No other omakase in Melbourne tops Ronins fun and engaging atmosphere. Food is so creative and appetising words cannot express how much I have enjoyed Ronin. Definitely a place I will revisit soon again 🩷

Ronin on Little Collins is an intimate 10-seater omakase where you leave it all in the chef’s hands We had 13 incredible courses, with the freshest seafood prepared right in front of us, think uni, caviar, abalone, and buttery toro. Standouts for me: 🐚 Abalone with crab mustard 🥚 “Nothing Special” steamed egg with foie gras & caviar Chef Patrick brought the vibes too, with fun banter and even a few surprise shots. At $205, it’s great value for the quality and experience. Would 100% go again.

ORDERED: 🍣 Omakase ($205.00pp): 14 courses + drink I spent $230.42 here. *Ronin take full omakase payment at time of booking. REVIEW: 🪙 Ronin omakase do a theatrical bit where they'll bring out a piece of salmon and spray a smattering of gold dust on it. Directed to turn on flash and video, it really helped to capture the nigiri's best features on display. However, I wasn't a fan of the way it was cut that night. It had a piece of fibre which ended up making the bite chewy for both me & my friend. Not the creamy, smooth consistency that I was looking for. ❤️ My top 3 favourites at Ronin were: 🍄 1. Tuna and scallop in the "truffle big mac" . This was an interesting combination where the fragile taste of the tuna and scallop perfectly complemented the shaved truffle. This is the first time where this combination worked for me and I could taste all the layers!! 🐄 2. A5 wagyu. Incredibly tender beef, memorably melt worthy. Lightly seared to give the bite more depth. A little baggie to add more seasoning also made things fun and interactive! 🍔 3. "Filet o fish". But make it fancy, with a sauce that mimics the taste of the iconic big mac sauce so well, toasted sweet bun and crunchy fish.... this was easy to love. 🙌 Shoutout to the amazing service. Although Ronin state that they can't accommodate dietaries, on multiple instances (for my pescatarian friend) they've: - removed the foie gras from a nigiri - substituted the A5 wagyu dish for a nigiri piece This was so thoughtful and I really appreciated the gesture from the team. 🥰 I also enjoyed the chef's witty one liners, but also would've appreciated: 1. More education to appreciate how much effort has gone into all the food! 🏫 2. Being at a better vantage point to see the food prepared. The working counter was a bit below visible sight. 🏮 Interior is pretty, although the lighting is a smidge too bright for my liking. The brightness tilted the atmosphere towards a more casual environment than cocooning us in the intimacy that a ~9 seater omakase would typically bring. Behind the diners was a quiet animation playing, that I also appreciated watching 🎥.

Elegant atmosphere, attentive service, and beautifully crafted dishes. Every bite was a delight. A truly memorable fine dining experience—highly recommended

Definitely fantastic food, atmosphere and experience. Our chef was the best. Food preparation, skills and then taste of food was on high end level. We will recommend you anytime and will return.

I’ve been fortunate to visit many omakase and kaiseki’s in Melbourne and Matsu is another one that’s been on my list for awhile. Matsu has just moved into a bigger venue from the original 4 seater. The ambience I have to say is quite sterile, i felt quite separated from the experience and the rest of the diners even though it’s only a 10 person space. You don’t feel as though you can speak too loudly as it’s really quite quiet. The menu itself was extremely well balanced, beautifully presented, flavours phenomenal. The little gohan rice dish with butterfish was a standout along with their starter plate with 5 small bites. I’ve also had many chawanmushi’s but none with camembert! Very unique. I did find strange that of their two ‘special’ add on dishes, one was a nigiri which was already served earlier in the meal. I would also say out of the many sake pairings I’ve had - the one at Matsu did not hit the mark for me. At $95 for 4 sakes, 30ml pours, I found it actually to be very poor value. It was also a shame to not have a sommelier there to explain the sakes. Overall - food very good. 5 stars. Ambience 3 stars. Sake pairing 2 stars. I’m sorry to say there are definitely better experiences in Melbourne. But I very much respect and appreciate chef Han’s passion and food!

If there is more than 5 stars I will give that. I can’t eat raw food, and they are very thoughtful nearly cook/spray gun them. So that I can enjoy and eat every dishes. Love it! 😍 and they even have a system to record my requirements. Love it. Will definitely come back!

Incredible experience from start to finish. Each dish was fresh, beautifully crafted, and full of flavor. The chef’s attention to detail and the seamless service made it unforgettable. A must-visit for any Japanese food lover!

Had a wonderful time enjoying the last of the winter menu. The food was an experience and a wonderful journey. The only negative was that when I was presented with the bill and the eft machine was put right in my face with tipping options - as we paid for 4 seats, Saturday surcharge and eft surcharge, being presented with 4 tipping options and a small no tip option was quite confronting and actually uncomfortable. I’ve said this before and will continue to say it - we pay incredible wages and loading to staff here in Australia, the 10% surcharge was to cover the staffs additional weekend rate, so - instead of asking your customer to tip your staff, reward them yourself for being amazing staff. I’m very passionate about this and will call out any restaurant in Australia that does it!

Beautiful dining experience at Matsu (April 2025). The kaiseki was thoughtfully curated with fresh produce. The prawns were a highlight, just so supple and sweet. I wasn't as full by the end but the takeaway onigiri was a nice touch and so delicious. Menu starts at $265pp.

Made a reservation for the winter kaiseki menu which consist of nine courses. The first half of the menu was decent and presentation was very nice; enjoyed the texture of the silky Inaniwa udon but was not fond of the cream sauce and nothing stood out to me for the Hassun appetisers. The second half of the kaiseki was much better; sashimi was very fresh, grilled M9+ wagyu was tender and marbled, yuzu palate cleanser was refreshing, and the fatty tuna was one of the finest cuts. The final main course was crayfish dashi broth followed by rice porridge topped with tempura crayfish tail which was warm and hearty with a light seafood umami flavour; very tasty. Highlight of the kaiseki menu was the crayfish rice porridge and the fatty tuna nigiri. Service was also good.

I finally got to experience the exclusive Matsu in Footscray. It was once Melbourne’s smallest restaurant with just 4 seats, but now with 10, it’s a little easier to book! This kaiseki menu was incredible - 11 beautifully curated dishes showcasing the delicacy and simplicity of traditional Japanese cuisine. Unlike omakase which focuses on sushi. Everything was exceptionally well done. From the abalone and sweet prawn to the chef’s selection, dashi soup, and tempura, each dish was a standout. The sashimi and nigiri were super fresh, and of course, I had to add an extra toro nigiri because I’m obsessed. The wagyu was perfectly cooked, but the miso-gochujang sauce was a little overpowering for my taste. The crayfish head hot pot was full of umami flavour, but a bit tricky to eat. Still, everything tasted amazing. Highly recommend giving Matsu a go. Kaiseki’s are rare in Melbourne, and now that Matsu is a 10-seater, it’s much easier to secure a spot. I will say, I wasn’t full at the end (big eater problems), but I’ll definitely be back to try the seasonal menus!

The food was not bad. Not a huge fan of their udon, but their other dishes were nice. There are good vegan and vegetarian options available. Medium-sized portion sizes. The customer service was wonderful, and the ambience was lovely.

I ordered the chicken teriyaki and it was amazing! It went down a treat with green tea. Location was nice and central, staff were very accommodating and the service was surprisingly quick. I highly recommend if you need a decent plate of Japanese food with flavours

I remember when Chocolate Buddha first opened in Fed Square. I was at uni and I thought it was the most delcious, most sophisticated place to eat! I went a few years ago and was disappointed but decided to try again this weekend when we were looking for a place to eat before a play. The staff are welcoming, friendly and efficient as always. The food was a letdown though. A vegan bento was $30 and didn't have any protein. Just rice, gai lan, beanshoots, and a vegetable stir-fry with a sweetish sauce. The eggplant was sadly a bit tough. My partner got the sizzling tofu steak, which wasn't a "steak" at all but chunks of soft tofu that actually looked raw, on a bed of caramalised veggies. The sauce was tasty but the portion size was tiny for $30! I think it's best this place remains a sweet memory for me, I won't be going back.

Awesome food and an amazing location. Would highly recommend for anyone in Federation Square in Mel Melbourne just visiting or local locals to have a try as well.

Lovely place with great ambience. Most of the food was great and some slightly on the bland side. Overall a nice experience with family :)

This place is an absolute gem! The waiter was amazing! He was new and had such a great attitude! The right mix of knowledge and fun! The food was amazing too! Thank you so much! We will be back!

I would like to begin by mentioning the Teriyaki Chicken Bento Box. It was by far my favourite out of all the other dishes I tried. We tried the veggie udon too. The only thing is that it may not appeal to everyone’s taste. There was a birthday too and the lady serving us put a candle on the orange cake we ordered (which was heaven). So thoughtful! The service was great, our food came within 15 minutes and the lady was very nice about any specific considerations. There was also a sushi train for any people with a sushi fever like me. Overall it was great, would 100% recommend for anyone who likes exploring different flavours.

Food was mostly good, however the special hand roll didn’t taste fresh. The service was quite slow - we didn’t get our cocktails until the main dish (had two rounds already). The a la carte menu felt too pricey - it only makes sense to get the set menu.

Been wanting to dine here for a long time, finally made it down and it was fabulous. Great service by gioia and was delish besides the lamb bao was bit dry and not much flavour . Everything else great especially from the first option row. Was our wedding anniversary and they gave us a little suprise at end of the meal also . Very sweet thankyou

Last night we went to Mr. Miyagi for dinner. We had set menu $69 and it was amazing. The food and cocktails had real wow factor and our waiter Tomas and other staff (As far as I can remember their names Gioia, Am ) were on point all night even though they were 1 staff member short for the night. An easy 9/10, they even give you a lemon Sake shot for free at the end of your night. We can't wait to go back 😊💕

Amazing food, service and restaurant. We tried several dishes and all were delicious!! Will be back!! The oysters are a must as well as the salmon tacos, Mr Beans,Happy hand rolls! Thank you Mr Miyagi 👏

Such a great restaurant! The food and atmosphere were amazing, but the service truly made our experience. Maya was our waitress and she was the best — super friendly and helped us pick out some incredible drinks (definitely try the Rainbow Road!). 10/10 🩷

Had the $69pp set menu, was very yummy. Highly recommend the Slip on, slip off cocktail, was delicious. Great service from Anna, thank you for the hospitality. Will recommend and be back ☺️

Food was spectacular and the oysters were different but 10/10 Salmon tacos were insane. However a little too much mayo in my opinion Mr miyagi chicken was sensational Great service and above all great atmosphere. Can watch the chefs in the kitchen and great playlist of music. Had a little bop at the table