Now Open: Aoi Tsuki Is the New 12-Seater Omakase Bar in South Yarra
This modern chef's table-style menu in South Yarra is a welcome addition to Melbourne's omakase boom.
Melbourne has fallen a little in love with omakase, a Japanese philosophy derived from the phrase 'leave it to the chef'. From omakase served in sumptuous subterranean spaces to untraditional, flame-filled menus — omakase is certainly having a moment in Melbourne. The latest pint-sized restaurant to join the party is Aoi Tsuki, a 12-seat omakase bar nestled on a busy section of Punt Road.
Tucked around the corner from South Yarra favourites including France Soir, Bar Carolina and Bistro Gitan, Aoi Tsuki's 20-course menu rotates regularly, underpinned by a deep respect for seasonality.
It's a place that's been in the making for head chefs Tei Gim and Jun Pak for years, following a few years of running a popular, lockdown-induced sushi box business.
Their combined resume spans stints at Japanese institutions Kisumé and Nobu. While the seasonal menu rotates daily, it may run to the likes of steamed abalone, tempura-fried eel and chawanmushi, a traditional steamed Japanese egg, that's refreshed here with black caviar and blue cheese.
But the real highlight of this sharp, smart exploration of excellent produce comes in the form of a nigiri series: soft squid, gleaming salmon, sea urchin, King George whiting and several cuts of tuna laid upon expertly-crafted sushi rice.
The experiential dining adventure clocks in at $235 per person, with a paired sake flight or a tidy drinks menu available to add on.
Aoi Tsuki is open at 384 Punt Road, South Yarra. It's open from 6pm–late Wednesday through to Sunday. The two hour omakase session starts at 6pm on Wednesday and Thursday, while on Friday, Saturday and Sunday diners can choose between a 6pm or 830pm seating.
Images: Griffin Simm, supplied.
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