As Melbournians, we’re truly so blessed to live in such a multicultural melting pot with a thriving food scene, with Japanese food and culture as no exception.
Whether you’re looking for sushi, ramen, or just a delicious cup of matcha latte, here are some of the cutest Japanese cafes in Melbourne you don’t wanna miss out on the next time you plan a cute date with your partner or your besties!
Hikari, Melbourne CBD
Just looking for a drink? Hikari is the right spot for a pick-me-up on your route to some city fun. Located at Swanston Street opposite of QV Shopping Mall, this warm and inviting cafe has lots of wood elements that make it the quiet oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Whilst you’re there, I recommend that you try their rotation of batch brews, cold brews, and pour overs. If that’s not your thing, they also have White Espresso, Sesame Latte, Yuzu Spritz, Cascara Tea (coffee cherry tea), Shiso Bellini, and a couple of hot chocolate lattes.
Moon Mart, West Melbourne
If you like concept cafes, you’ll love Moon Mart. This Tokyo-like convenience and cafe serves not just Japanese- and Korean-inspired brunch items such as Okonomiyaki-style Hash Browns and Kimchi Jaffles, they also sell small-batch homemade Asian condiments. If you’re going anytime soon, go try their Korean King's congee, it’s a traditional congee made with milk historically made only for the King of Joseon in Korea.
Haiku, Camberwell
Dine and shop at Melbourne’s No.1 Japanese cafe & grocery store at Haiku. They have brunch and dinner menus such as fresh bentos, coffees made with Japanese Coffee Beans, and if you’re feeling like upgrading your kitchenware, you can buy handcrafted Japanese Knives on your way out. What to order here: Teishoku (Japanese breakfast board), Shokupan Jaffles, Onigirazu (onigiris without shapes), and the Bubble Iced Hojicha Latte.
Fuumi Fuumi, West Melbourne & South Yarra
Who doesn’t love Asian bread shops? Fuumi Fuumi has a great selection of freshly made Japanese breads and cakes that are so cute you wouldn’t eat without posting on Instagram first. Sweet or savory, you’ll get the best of both worlds. I loved the Fried Ebi and Egg Salad Sando and Hojicha Latte the last time I visited — their latte art is so so cute, I had a cute bear latte!
Ichigo, Melbourne CBD
If you’re into an industrial vibe, Ichigo’s 4 meter-high floor-to-ceiling windows with cloud lights is exactly that. They offer a small range of quality Japanese teas and coffees, including matcha (green tea), hojicha (roasted green tea), and kinako (roasted soy bean flour) lattes. They also make savory items like Japanese-style sandos. When you’re there, get any of their picture-perfect cake slices or shortbreads. I personally loved the Lobster-Scallop Mille Feuille, Ochazuke with Unagi, and Lychee Lime Coconut Iced Soda the last time I visited.
So, which one are you going to next? Whether you're in the mood for a good fusion feed, or just want a cute drink, you’re guaranteed to experience a slice of Japan in one of these Melbourne cafes. Let us know if you go to any of them and tag us on our socials @skinstudioj_, we’d love to see you explore these spots!
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