Best Japanese Speciality Restaurants in Essendon

7 restaurants available nearby

1. Kentaro - Pop Up

2.0

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese speciality • Melbourne

Welcome to Kentaro, a Japanese omakase restaurant that transports diners to the intimate charm of Japan’s hidden side streets. Here, we offer an authentic and immersive dining experience that celebrates the art of Japanese cuisine. Under the guidance of our talented producer chef, whose extensive background includes esteemed Melbourne establishments such as Shiranui, Shoya, and Marble Yakiniku, as well as international experience in culinary hubs like Singapore and Tokyo, Kentaro elevates Melbourne's dining scene to new heights. Join us for a unique journey where tradition meets innovation in every exquisite creation.

A photo of Chotto Motto Collingwood restaurant

2. Chotto Motto Collingwood

4.7

Exceptional(319)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese speciality • Collingwood

Booked 16 times today

Chotto Motto in Collingwood is a standout destination for aficionados of authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly known for its handcrafted dumplings drenched in crispy chilli oil. This vibrant eatery encapsulates the spirit of the Showa Era with its eclectic decor filled with Japanese vintage antiques, creating an atmosphere that’s both fun and uniquely inviting. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the offerings, with reviews praising the "excellent flavours" and "amazing value." The restaurant's lively vibe is matched by its menu, which includes delights like octopus carpaccio and karaage chicken. As one diner puts it, Chotto Motto is "hands down the best Japanese restaurant in Melbourne," where "Blink your eyes and you’re in Japan." This spot is a must-visit for a truly delightful Japanese dining experience.

3. Shusai Mijo

4.8

Exceptional(13)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese speciality • Fitzroy

Booked 1 time today

Shusai Mijo, nestled in the vibrant Fitzroy neighborhood of Melbourne, is a gem of Japanese cuisine, offering a truly authentic omakase experience. Each dish is a testament to the high-quality Australian and Japanese ingredients, crafted with impeccable skill and artistry. Diners rave about the Kappo-style menu, which includes standout dishes like melt-in-your-mouth wagyu and delicate sashimi, expertly paired with a diverse sake and wine list. The intimate eight-seater bar and seasonal menu changes ensure each visit is unique and memorable. As one reviewer puts it, "This place deserves more recognition" for its "unforgettable culinary journey" that showcases the very best of Japanese culinary tradition. Whether it's for a special occasion or a culinary adventure, Shusai Mijo is highly recommended for an unparalleled dining experience.

4. Wabi Sabi Salon

4.4

Awesome(34)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese speciality • Collingwood

Booked 19 times today

At Wabi Sabi Salon in Collingwood, the essence of Japanese cuisine is celebrated through a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. This restaurant stands out for its authentic offerings, especially the praised Teishoku sets that delight diners with a variety of choices, including meat, fish, and vegan options. Guests consistently rave about the quality and authenticity, noting dishes like the "fantastic Ramen" and "signature Teishoku" as unforgettable experiences. The ambiance adds to the allure, with a vibe described as a perfect backdrop for the "delicious and reasonably priced meals." Wabi Sabi Salon is a gem in Melbourne's dining scene, offering a genuine slice of Japan with each meticulously prepared dish, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of refined Japanese cuisine.

5. Sachi

4.5

Awesome(35)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese speciality • Hawthorn

Booked 9 times today

At Sachi, located in the heart of Hawthorn, the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine is celebrated with an unwavering commitment to quality. Derived from 'umi no sachi,' meaning treasure of the sea, Sachi offers an unparalleled seafood experience that highlights the freshest ingredients through masterful Japanese culinary techniques. Patrons rave about the "amazing, fresh seafood beautifully prepared" and the "outstanding omakase with some of the best sushi" they've had in years. The atmosphere is described as "moody" and "cozy," perfect for enjoying dishes that are not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing. With its skilled sushi chefs and a vibrant menu that pushes creative boundaries, Sachi is a must-visit for an authentic and joyful Japanese dining experience.

6. Yakikami

new

4.8

Exceptional(1)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese speciality • South Yarra

Booked 23 times today

Discover the world of Japanese cuisine at Melbourne’s best Japanese restaurant, Yakikami. Sip & dine in our modern, sleek and traditional interior with three distinct experiences: Josper Room, Yakitori Counter & General Dining.The Yakikami ExperienceEach experience has its own unique ambience and menu offerings, inviting you to unwind and explore on a memorable journey of Japanese cuisine in the heart of South Yarra.

7. Ishizuka

new

4.8

Exceptional(41)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese speciality • Melbourne CBD

A secret within Melbourne’s city centre, Ishizuka offers a refined kaiseki experience that reflects the pinnacle of Japanese dining in an intimate subterranean restaurant space. Honoured with two hats at the 2019 Good Food Guide Awards, Head Chef Hitoshi Miyazawa’s cuisine is meticulously prepared and exquisitely served, guiding diners on a journey through time, place and season.Designed by esteemed architecture and design practice Russell & George, Ishizuka was awarded Restaurant of the Year at the 2019 Frame Awards in Amsterdam, International Winner in the Australia & Pacific Restaurant category at the prestigious Restaurant & Bar Design Awards in London, and Restaurant Design of the Year at the 2018 Eat Drink Design Awards in Melbourne.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

T
Tim
Greater Boston •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Pretty unusual (for me anyway) dining experience, seeing incredible food prepared right in front of you by a sushi master. Chef Jun made incredible food full of flavor in a very understated way, with beautiful presentation. Chef Takaro was a great sous chef and it was great seeing him work; the torched ika was a highlight I wasn’t expecting. I highly recommend the sake pairings; sommelier Luciano was very well informed and insightful on the origins of the sakes and why they were chosen for certain courses. Highly recommended.
More info
Shusai MijoPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Fitzroy
•
4.8
O
oliver
Melbourne •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 19 Nov 2024
this place makes for a great after work drink or as a fun place for a group to spend the night. the atmosphere is fun and very Osaka inspired and during the summer its a comfortable and chill vibe with great shearing plates and great cocktails.
More info
Chotto Motto CollingwoodPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Collingwood
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable Diner
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on 14 Nov 2024
Very good experience, would recommend to everyone High hopes for the future of this restaurant :))
More info
SachiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Hawthorn
•
4.5
M
May
Victoria •1 review
4.0
Dined on 5 Nov 2024
Reasonably good food, a little pricey. We were seated upstairs, noise level was right up there.
More info
Wabi Sabi SalonPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Collingwood
•
4.4

Explore OpenTable

Essendon

Japanese speciality

Best Japanese Speciality Restaurants in Essendon

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Accessibility

7 restaurants available nearby

1. Kentaro - Pop Up

2. Chotto Motto Collingwood

3. Shusai Mijo

4. Wabi Sabi Salon

5. Sachi

6. Yakikami

7. Ishizuka

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable