Best Japanese Restaurants in East Melbourne

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

BaysideCity CentreEastern SuburbsInner City EastInner City NorthInner City South

Neighborhoods

AbbotsfordArmadaleBalaclavaBrunswickCamberwellCarlton

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

45 restaurants available nearby

1. Wabi Sabi Salon

4.4

Awesome(44)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Collingwood

Booked 24 times today

Wabi Sabi Salon in Collingwood is a stellar destination for authentic Japanese Speciality cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary dishes. Praised as "our favourite accessible Japanese in Melbourne," this charming eatery never fails to impress with its delicious offerings like the renowned Chicken Katsu Curry and exquisite teishoku sets. The restaurant's interior exudes a nostalgic Showa-era ambiance, transporting diners to a cozy, retro Japan. Guests rave about the "fantastic food - never disappoints" and the "lovely place with great food that was reasonably priced." Whether it's the tantalizing tan tan ramen or the delightful yuzu lemonade, Wabi Sabi Salon promises a memorable and satisfying dining experience.

A photo of Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - Fitzroy restaurant

2. Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - Fitzroy

4.2

Awesome(1727)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Fitzroy

Booked 35 times today

Step into Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya in Fitzroy and experience a true taste of exceptional Japanese cuisine with a modern flair. Diners rave about the "incredible food" that transports you back to Japan, with standout dishes like the Ebi Mayo and spicy edamame impressing every time. The ambiance, described as "relaxing and vibrant," perfectly complements the authentic flavors. The service is consistently praised as "amazing" and "impeccable," with staff going above and beyond to ensure an unforgettable dining experience. Whether for an intimate dinner or a group celebration, Ichi Ni Nana promises a "divine" culinary journey worth returning for.

3. Chocolate Buddha

4.7

Exceptional(2863)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 71 times today

Chocolate Buddha, nestled in the heart of Melbourne CBD, offers an exceptional Asian dining experience that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Known for its "extraordinary" food and "gorgeous, knowledgeable staff," the restaurant has become a beloved spot for sushi aficionados. The innovative sushi train, paired with a modern QR menu system, ensures a seamless dining experience. Reviewers rave about the "fresh and delicious" bento boxes and the diverse menu catering to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. Chocolate Buddha's "great vibe" and "friendly service" make it a must-visit for those seeking authentic and high-quality Asian cuisine.

4. Shoya Melbourne

4.5

Awesome(57)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 14 times today

Shoya Melbourne stands out as a beacon of authentic Asian cuisine, offering an unparalleled Japanese dining experience in the heart of Melbourne. For seven consecutive years, it has been celebrated as the Best Japanese Restaurant in Melbourne, a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the "top-notch modern Japanese" dishes, meticulously prepared using century-old techniques and high-quality ingredients from Japan and beyond. Shoya's Omakase courses and à la Carte options promise a culinary journey that's "simply incredible," where each dish is a masterpiece of artistry and flavor. The restaurant's consistent excellence makes it a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.

A photo of Niku Ou Japanese Chargrill Restaurant restaurant

5. Niku Ou Japanese Chargrill Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(9)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 16 times today

As Melbourne’s best Japanese Yakiniku, we’re serving the finest Japanese and Australian Wagyu to Bourke Street, Melbourne CBD. We are the only Kobe Beef supplier in Victoria.Contemporary venue for Japanese grilled meats, with exposed stone walls and a sumo wrestler mural.

6. Ototo

3.9

Excellent(393)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 15 times today

Ototo, nestled in the heart of Melbourne's CBD, offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that is truly unparalleled. The Chef's Tasting Menu is a "delightful variety" of flavors, showcasing dishes like Kingfish Sashimi with truffle ponzu and the succulent wagyu tataki. Diners are consistently impressed by "absolutely delicious food" and the "exceptional service" provided by attentive staff. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a cozy date night or a celebratory gathering with friends. Guests rave about the "mouth-watering" 48-Hour Black Angus Short Ribs and the exquisite cocktail selection, making Ototo a must-visit destination for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts.

A photo of Chotto Motto Collingwood restaurant

7. Chotto Motto Collingwood

4.7

Exceptional(328)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Collingwood

Booked 12 times today

Chotto Motto Collingwood is a captivating haven for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts, offering an authentic and delightful culinary experience. Renowned for its handmade Japanese dumplings served with crispy chili oil, this restaurant truly excels in delivering a taste of Japan. The "outstanding" food, characterized by dishes like king prawn gyoza and chicken karage, has diners raving about its quality and authenticity. The decor is an enchanting tribute to the Showa Era, with vintage Japanese antiques adorning the walls, creating an eclectic and fun atmosphere. As one review highlights, it feels "like taking a trip to Japan," ensuring a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Kushiro Fusion Cuisine restaurant

8. Kushiro Fusion Cuisine

4.8

Exceptional(36)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Fitzroy

Booked 6 times today

Kushiro Fusion Cuisine in Fitzroy is a hidden gem, celebrated for its exquisite blend of Chinese culinary artistry. This restaurant stands out with its authentic and flavorful dishes, as patrons rave about the “superb attention to detail” and “flavors bursting with creativity.” The menu features a harmonious fusion of traditional techniques and innovative flair, from the must-try Duck Confit to the Slow Roasted Short Rib, each dish is a testament to the chef’s pride and meticulous craftsmanship. Guests are treated to not only delightful meals but also “impeccable service” in a vibrant setting, making Kushiro a must-visit destination for Chinese cuisine enthusiasts.

9. Tamura Sake Bar

4.8

Exceptional(15)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Fitzroy

Booked 10 times today

Tamura Sake, Records & Jazzy Kitchen offers an authentic Japanese izakaya dining experience. We source original sake, beer and the best music selection from Japan. We do our best to bring back the good memory you had in Japan, if you’ve been there, or make you want to travel there if haven’t yet.Our food is home-made and focuses on whole chicken and less waste. We offer small, healthy dishes to share—from raw to grilled. Our records are selected by well-known Japanese DJs and producers!

A photo of Temaki Sushi Melbourne restaurant

10. Temaki Sushi Melbourne

5.0

Exceptional(32)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 6 times today

The Temaki Sushi team is thrilled to introduce a very special dining experience.Our Head Chef, Hiroshi San, will prepare a multi-course seasonal meal, comprising the freshest seafood, meats and organic vegetables.We will also be serving unique sake, wine & beer, imported directly from boutique Japanese growers.Our intimate venue seats only 10 people, and you should allow 90 minutes. Authentic, elegant and friendly.

‘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

K
Karan
Melbourne •1 review
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
The servers and the staff were one of the best I have seen. They were so kind and courteous that it made the whole experience so warm and comfortable. The food was good but I hope that you add a few more veg options. The Bao dish was the best and it was really really good. Overall we would recommend this place to our friends because of the overall experience.Thank you.
More info
Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - FitzroyPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Fitzroy
•
4.2
D
Daria
Tasmania •8 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
Busy restaurant in the middle of federation square. The food was good but in our option a bit pricey for what it was. $32 for a salmon roll just seems a bit much. It took a while to get our table cleared after the meal so we kinda sat there with dirty dishes in front of us for a while. No one came up and asked if we wanted more drinks or food.
More info
Chocolate BuddhaPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Melbourne CBD
•
4.7
C
Craig
Melbourne •1 review
4.0
Dined on Mar 2, 2025
Fantastic food and beautiful surroundings however it doesn't come cheap.
More info
Shoya MelbournePrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Melbourne CBD
•
4.5
OT
OpenTable Diner
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 1, 2025
Super delicious vegan Dan Dan ramen can’t wait to go back for the other vegan veg options
More info
Wabi Sabi SalonPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Collingwood
•
4.4
A
Ariane
Perth •1 review
5.0
Dined on Jan 4, 2025
Best Japanese food and great customer service, will go back more often.
More info
Niku Ou Japanese Chargrill RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Melbourne CBD
•
4.5

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