Best Japanese Restaurants in North Melbourne

Price

$$
$$$
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Regions

Eastern SuburbsInner CityInner City NorthInner City WestInner EastInner South

Neighbourhoods

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 washroomWheelchair access

43 restaurants available nearby

1. Kare Curry

4.4

Awesome(8)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • West Melbourne

Booked 2 times today

Karé Curry, where the vibrant flavors of Japan meet the laid-back charm of West Melbourne! Nestled in the heart of the Victoria Market, we're your go-to destination for a taste of authentic Japanese curry paired with a delightful array of specialty drinks. From our coffee offerings to our handcrafted cocktails and specialty Japanese beverages, there's something to tantalize every palate. Step into our cozy venue and prepare to be whisked away on a culinary adventure like no other. Whether you're craving the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of curry or looking to unwind with a refreshing cocktail, we've got you covered. Join us at Kare Curry, where every dish tells a story and every sip is a celebration of flavor!

2. Chocolate Buddha

4.7

Exceptional(2862)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 65 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.

A photo of Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - Fitzroy restaurant

3. Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - Fitzroy

4.2

Awesome(1726)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Fitzroy

Booked 23 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.

4. Shoya Melbourne

4.5

Awesome(57)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 17 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.

5. Ototo

3.9

Excellent(393)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 8 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.

6. Operator San

4.5

Awesome(3)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 2 times today

A new Japanese-inspired brunch by Operator25 cafe, serving all day breakfast, sweets, savouries & specialty coffee and drinks. Find us on Therry Street, right by the hustle & bustle of the iconic Queen Victoria Market, presenting you with a taste of Japan, within the heart of Melbourne.

7. Bincho Boss

4.6

Exceptional(287)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 8 times today

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.

8. Ishizuka

4.8

Exceptional(42)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 9 times today

Awarded two hats at the 2025 Good Food Guide Awards, Ishizuka is renowned for its contemporary interpretation of Kaiseki—an elevated and intricate culinary art form, practiced exclusively by Japan’s most expert culinary master Katsuji Yoshino. Each Kaiseki meal is a multi-course journey that celebrates the integrity of seasonal ingredients, with a balance of flavours and textures that are as artistically presented as they are meticulously crafted.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.

A photo of Niku Ou Japanese Chargrill Restaurant restaurant

9. Niku Ou Japanese Chargrill Restaurant

4.5

Awesome(9)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 15 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.

10. Kentaro

4.3

Awesome(16)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Melbourne CBD

Booked 22 times today

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.

‘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

A
Andrew
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Amazing food and excellent, attentive customer service, where wait staff learnt your name and actually wanted to converse with you in a genuine manner!
More info
Chocolate BuddhaPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Melbourne CBD
•
4.7
K
Katie
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 5, 2025
Curtis was amazing and provided friendly and prompt service making my partners birthday a fun and entertaining evening. Thanks Curtis! And keep up your awesome upselling skills!!
More info
Ichi Ni Nana Izakaya - FitzroyPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Fitzroy
•
4.2
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
J
JasminVIP
Melbourne •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 15, 2025
We had the special valentines set menu which came to $120 for 2 (plus 10% weekend surcharge), plus we opted to upgrade for an extra $6pp for an alcoholic beverage. The curry was absolutely delicious and the service was 10/10.
More info
Kare CurryPrice: Moderate• Japanese• West Melbourne
•
4.4
A
Albert
Melbourne •1 review
5.0
Dined on Feb 6, 2025
Great place with relaxed atmosphere. Variety of food options. Definitely coming back again very soon.
More info
OtotoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Melbourne CBD
•
3.9

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