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Best Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne

A photo of Red logo
by OpenTable Team
Updated November 09, 2023

From sushi and gyoza, to yakitori and ramen, discover the best Japanese restaurants Melbourne has to offer. You’ll find everything from your local favourites to upscale fusion spots.

Credit: Ichiro Izakaya Bar

A photo of Warabi restaurant
4.7
4.7 (105)
$101 and over
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
A contemporary Japanese dining experience, Warabi emphasises seasonal ingredients and elevated beverage pairings in an Omakase setting, celebrating the Kappo style of cuisine philosophy.

The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.

The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.

Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Sep 28, 2023
Service was excellent! Staff were both observant and knowledgeable. Food was average.
A photo of Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - Fitzroy restaurant
4.3
4.3 (1688)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Fitzroy
About the restaurant
Ichi Ni Nana, is a modern style Izakaya experience spread across multiple levels along the iconic Brunswick Street offering delectable Japanese dishes with a modern twist (such as our must try Ebi Mayo). The venue also comprises an amazing beverage list of Japanese inspired cocktails, the best Japan has to offer in sakes and whiskies and a comprehensive wine list covering local and international regions.

Our friendly and professional team will take you on a guided tour through a Japanese experience that will leave you eagerly anticipating your next visit. Whether it’s an intimate dinner in one of our hand crafted booths or a group celebration, Ichi Ni Nana has an abundance of breathtaking indoor and outdoor areas (including a courtyard with a retractable glass ceiling which can be enjoyed rain, hail or shine), to suit any occasion.

Top review
Loretta
Dined 7 days ago
Amazing staff, food, service. Highly recommend to one and all
A photo of Kicho Japanese Restaurant restaurant
4.6
4.6 (484)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Black Rock
About the restaurant
Located next to a beautiful beach, we are a vibrant and cozy place to enjoy modern Japanese cuisine from our enthusiastic and companionable team members.

We accept reservations online for up to 6 guests, with a seating time of 2 hours. We encourage guests after a reservation for 1-6 diners to make their bookings online. 15 minutes grace time to all bookings. Please note that our online booking system reflects real time availability at the restaurant.
 
For groups of 7 guests or more, please contact our reservations team on 0411 306 208 or info@kicho.com.au. Please note that groups of 7+ guests are required to dine on a set menu.

We take enquires for large group booking or catering requirements.

Dietary requirements are welcome and can be accommodated with advance notice. We recommend you let us know at the time of booking to ensure we can meet your needs.

15% surcharge will be applied on Public Holiday

Top review
LINDA
Dined on Dec 17, 2024
Greet! Sometimes the service can be a bit slow but the waitresses we had last night were brilliant!
A photo of Akaiito Restaurant restaurant
4.5
4.5 (180)
$101 and over
French / Japanese
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
Akaiito inspires a unique Japanese culinary experience like no other. Welcome to our exclusive unique dining experience led by our team who will take you on a Japanese-inspired culinary journey through the art of a modern omakase.
Be immersed in a world of exquisite flavors, expertly prepared seasonal dishes, and impeccable presentation, all while sitting comfortably at your own table. To celebrate Akaiito’s 5-year anniversary, we’re excited to offer a special 4-course menu featuring some of our most popular and signature dishes from over the years. We’re bringing back these favorites exclusively

Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Oct 13, 2023
It is good place and calm place night out. We enjoyed a lot each time here
A photo of Chocolate Buddha restaurant
4.7
4.7 (2817)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
Chocolate Buddha undertook an AMAZING renovation in 2019 by Maddison Architects. We have a 22 seater SUSHI TRAIN open Wednesday to Sunday lunches 12 - 3pm and Wednesday to Saturday Dinners 5 - 8pm it includes an EXPRESS train which delivers hot food ordered via a tablet. We offer QR menus at each table for ease of ordering, splitting bills and menu with pictures and descriptions. This type of ordering is optional so always let us know if you prefer to order with us. See you soon @ Chocolate Buddha
Top review
Andrea
Dined 5 days ago
One of only a few places that accommodate gluten and dairy free where the food is actually fabulous. And I got to eat dessert! Service from all staff was great and shout out to Hugo for his recommendations and great service.
A photo of Golden Gai restaurant
4.5
4.5 (116)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Windsor
About the restaurant
With a love for Japanese pop culture and nightlife, Golden Gai is inspired by the noisy and creative back alleyways of Shinjuku, Golden Gai, Tokyo, Japan. From our menu to the walls, we’ve added our own personality anywhere we can.
As Melbourne’s very own Golden Gai, our doors are open to anyone and everyone who is looking for a late night hang out, hungry for Japanese fusion, drinks to celebrate or wanting to be transported to Japan for a little while.

Top review
JohnW
Dined on Jul 17, 2024
Attentive service, excellent food love the decor. Very quiet night.
A photo of Tetsujin restaurant
4.4
4.4 (242)
$40 and under
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
Capturing the essence of Tokyo with sushi train, Japanese barbeque and a bar, all under one roof.
Top review
Mameo
Dined on Jan 1, 2023
Staff were very busy but Alex was nice and explained the menu well. If you have 3 or more drinking beer, definitely get the $50 Tetsujin lager. Better value.
A photo of Ichiro Izakaya Bar restaurant
4.8
4.8 (217)
$40 and under
Japanese
Burwood
About the restaurant
Seeking to combine the best of both worlds, we have combined the familiar flavours of Australian dining with certain range of traditional Japanese Izakaya dishes, as well as some unique creation of our own for local regular in order to create the tastiest food we can for you.

We also have a lovely range of Japanese sake and beer for you to compliment your food, if you're keen to experience Izakaya like they do in Japan.

​いらっしゃいませ

Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Apr 13, 2024
The food was delicious, and the vibe was very low-key/no-fuss. Looking forward to coming back.
A photo of Chotto Motto Collingwood restaurant
4.7
4.7 (321)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Collingwood
About the restaurant
This Collingwood gem is a one of a kind Japanese restaurant famous for hand made Japanese dumplings served in Crispy Chilli Oil! The venue is coverered wall to wall in Showa Era Japanese vintage antiques, a super fun an unique environment.
Top review
Sarah
Dined on Dec 17, 2024
Great fun place to go with friends, great accomodating friendly staff and excellent food. Fun interiors too!
A photo of Ototo restaurant
3.8
3.8 (379)
$41 to $100
Asian
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
Discover a hidden gem beneath the city streets at our contemporary Asian restaurant. Located underground, our venue boasts a full bar and an exquisite menu that promises a fusion of flavors. Delight in the Chef's Tasting Menu, a curated selection of favorites. Savor dishes like Kingfish Sashimi with truffle ponzu, or popular wagyu tataki. Dumpling enthusiasts can relish our diverse range, while main courses feature delights such as 48-Hour Black Angus Short Ribs and Signature 14-Day Dry Aged Duck. Don't forget to pair your meal with creative cocktails from our bar. Complete your journey with decadent desserts like Chocolate Fondant and Pandan Creme Brulee.
Top review
Isabella
Dined 7 days ago
Amazing experience, lovely service, food was incredible
A photo of Bincho Boss restaurant
4.6
4.6 (281)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
Bincho Boss is a modern Japanese restaurant that offers an authentic and refined Izakaya-style dining experience. The menu features a variety of dishes that are cooked on an earthen konro grill over Binchō-tan, a type of high-quality charcoal that produces an unparalleled flavour and aroma. Located in Melbourne city's laneway, the restaurant is inspired by the traditional alleyways of Tokyo, also known as 'Yokocho', which are known for their casual and enjoyable atmosphere.

Bincho Boss's menu uses seasonal and fresh ingredients to create dishes that celebrate the flavours, textures, and colours of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant also offers a curated cocktail and drinks menu, making it the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends or family.

Top review
tommy
Dined 2 days ago
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Bincho Boss with a group of eight, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment we walked in, the staff were attentive and accommodating, ensuring that our table was ready and that we had everything we needed. The menu at Bincho Boss is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes to choose from. We opted to share a variety of small plates, including edamame, gyoza, and tempura, all of which were cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The highlight of our meal, however, was the complimentary additional chicken teriyaki that the chef generously provided. The dish was tender, juicy, and smothered in a rich, savory sauce that complemented the other flavors on the table perfectly. Throughout our meal, the service was top-notch. Our server was knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, ensuring that our glasses were always full and that we had everything we needed. Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with our experience at Bincho Boss. The food was delicious, the service was exceptional, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. I would highly recommend Bincho Boss to anyone looking for a great Japanese dining experience. In fact, I'm already planning our next visit! The total bill for our meal was very reasonable, especially considering the high quality of the food and the generous portion sizes. We left feeling full, satisfied, and already looking forward to our next visit. If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, or just looking for a great dining experience, be sure to add Bincho Boss to your list.
A photo of Eazy Peazy restaurant
4.6
4.6 (301)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Richmond
About the restaurant
Discover the Essence of Japanese Cuisine in Richmond at Eazy Peazy. Our menu, inspired by traditional Japanese, features a diverse selection of dishes perfect for sharing. At the heart of our dining experience is the Hibachi Grill, where flavours come to life, cooked over charcoal for that true Japanese taste. Explore our unique offerings and find out why we're a beloved Japanese dining destination in Richmond.
Top review
Helen
Dined on Dec 17, 2024
Interesting and delicious pork doughnuts and v good wagyu yakitori. Tuna yakitori was v dry Pleasant staff and quiet environment for conversation
A photo of Musashi Ramen restaurant
4.6
4.6 (66)
$40 and under
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
About the restaurant
WELCOME TO MUSASHI IZAKAYA
"Musashi" is located on 181 Russell st, Melbourne, VIC.

IZAKAYA is a drinking establishment with foods and people drink and share foods. People often call IZAKAYA a Japanese tapas bar. Yes at IZAKAYA, drinking is a must and you find what to eat with drinks. We wanted to show people the joy of sharing and enjoying drinks with friends. So we named our restaurant IZAKAYA because we wanted to establish this IZAKAYA category aside from regular Japanese restaurants.

So IZAKAYA iko! (“Let’s go to IZAKAYA!”)

Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Oct 25, 2024
By far the best food I’ve had and the service was great the staff really went above and beyond
A photo of Misoya Sake Bar restaurant
4.8
4.8 (89)
$40 and under
Japanese
Brunswick
About the restaurant
Japanese Ramen and Sake Bar. Miso is a paste made from fermented soy beans and barley or rice malt. It is traditional Japanese seasoning and used in a range of dishes from soups, to glazes, to dips and pickles. Miso is high in protein and contains a range of vitamins and minerals including B12, B3, E, K, iron and calcium. About miso ramen: In 1923, Chinese immigrant chef Mr Wang started work at the Takeya Café near Hokkaido University in Sapporo, Japan. He developed his own noodle and soup dishes that would appeal to the Japanese palette. His dishes were so successful that they were copied and in 1951 Ramen Alley in downtown Sapporo became nationally famous. Misoya Ramen: Misoya has developed its own miso ramen with a thick miso soup made from chicken and vegetable stock in consideration of Australian tastes and preferences. Egg noodles and fresh seasonal vegetables result in a ramen that is bound to please and will make you want to come back for more.
Top review
Megan
Dined on Dec 15, 2024
Highly recommend. Great food and lovely staff :)
A photo of Hachi Kichi restaurant
4.6
4.6 (11)
$40 and under
Japanese
Brighton
About the restaurant
Located in Brighton, Hachi Kichi Japanese Restaurant is a relaxed and charming spot serving some of the best Japanese cuisine in Melbourne. Situated just off the Nepean Highway on Bay Street, the quality of the dishes here is second-to-none. The space itself is cosy and charming with a bold neon sign and plants adorning the exposed brick walls, making it perfect for date night or a meal out with your best friends. As for the menu, there’s a selection of fresh sushi, gyoza, kushi yaki skewers, ngiri, sashimi and traditional Japanese mains. It’s a Brighton local favourite for good reason and should be high on your list, that’s for sure. Reservations are recommended.
Top review
JudyS
Dined on Apr 2, 2022
Good service & food delicious
A photo of Komuni restaurant
4.8
4.8 (23)
$40 and under
Japanese
Ringwood
About the restaurant
Fusion Japanese restaurant in light and bright atmosphere. Well appointed drinks list that complements our Japanese cuisine. Watch our Japanese chefs cook you lunch or dinner in our open kitchen. Try our house made Gyoza or our Kara age fried chicken. Host your special event with our private dining area that cater up to 35 guests.
Top review
Cathy
Dined 7 days ago
The food was delicious, and the service and atmosphere were fantastic. Will definitely go back.
A photo of Y14 Japanese Seafood Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.4
4.4 (157)
$40 and under
Japanese
Sandringham
About the restaurant
We are taking bookings (Upgrading our website)!!! We are popular with the Sandringham locals, Y14 has quickly become an Buyside institution. Sat in an intimate architectural designed space surrounded by timber you'll be served home-made katsu curries, gob-smacking sushi & sashimi platters perfectly matched with local and international wines and beers.
Top review
RyanVIP
Dined on Oct 5, 2024
A nice spot for a quick meal. Cocktails are nice and everything on the menu was great
A photo of ZENZEN restaurant
4.7
4.7 (162)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Gisborne
About the restaurant
TO BOOK A TABLE OR ORDER TAKEAWAY, PLEASE VISIT www.zenzen.com.au OR email to info@zenzen.com.au

Japanese street food (‘Yatai’) in the heart of Gisborne, Macedon Ranges.
Bright colours, bold flavours | Casual and laid back dining

Top review
ErnestaC
Dined on May 26, 2023
We celebrated a family birthday at ZenZen and had the most delightful experience. The food was fresh and delicious. A lovely evening in a terrific place in Gisborne.
A photo of Ichi Ni Izakaya - St Kilda restaurant
4.4
4.4 (1281)
$41 to $100
Japanese
St Kilda
About the restaurant
Melbourne’s premier Izakaya experience. Ichi Ni has taken it’s place alongside neighbouring St. Kilda institutions with it’s unique design and central location. Providing a casual and lively dining atmosphere, Ichi Ni offers an extensive menu complimented with unmatched views overlooking Port Phillip Bay.

The Izakaya style restaurant is a visual feast that has combined modern dining with a traditional twist. Multi level seating, private booths and year round heated decking ensure each visit is as original as the first.

Ichi Ni accommodates a full and traditional Japanese menu that caters to all tastes – yakitori, sushi, sashimi and Japanese tapas. You won’t have difficulty finding the perfect drop to go with your “Tabemono” either… an extensive beverage menu offers sake, cocktails, fine wines and a range of Japanese beers to compliment each meal.

Top review
CherrieP
Dined on Feb 18, 2024
Curtis is always a delight to see! He is always prompt with service. Food is amazing and I have too many favourites! it's a shame St kilda is closed, however I'm sure Fitzroy will be just as good! Thank you for the good times
A photo of IROHA restaurant
4.8
4.8 (92)
$41 to $100
Japanese
Northcote
About the restaurant
We demonstrate 'the basic' Japanese cuisine through the importance of: Freshness, Health conscious, Creativity, Seasonal produce, Innovation and OMOTENASHI spirit. (Omotenashi is the Japanese culture of treating a guest. It blends a welcoming spirit with warmth, understanding, and above all respect.) We use local ingredients to express our 'basic Japanese cuisine'. We offer traditional Japanese flavours combining modern cooking methods.
Top review
Christos
Dined on Sep 21, 2024
Best restaurant ever!! Will miss you all so much, congratulations for creating such a unique and beautiful experience for us all over the last 9 years. xoxoxoxo
A photo of Shizuku Ramen - Hawthorn restaurant
4.2
4.2 (11)
$40 and under
Japanese
Hawthorn
About the restaurant
Shizuku is not your average Japanese restaurant. That’s partly because we serve the best ramen in Melbourne, and partly because our menu has a creative flair. Unlike other Japanese venues we also offer a serious selection of craft beer. And while we could go on about how ramen and beer is the perfect pair, there’s only one way to discover it for yourself.

Serving delicious bowls of ramen, craft beers, cocktails, japanese whisky, sake. Good tunes, great vibes!

Top review
SimonK
Dined on Jul 2, 2023
Awesome little restaurant, good vibes, awesome ramen bowls.
A photo of MONOU Japanese restaurant
$40 and under
Japanese
South Melbourne
About the restaurant
Monou Japanese Restaurant by Kenvan Team, who brought you the Kuu Japanese Cafe just down the road. Now they have opened a Restaurant. Monou is all about food and drink like what you find in Japan with a modern Australian touch.

*Please note Monou reopened in 9th of Nov 2021 with a new menu and new trading hours.

Top review
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Nov 20, 2021
Really good food and service
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