Bosozoku - CLOSED
A Japanese biker gang-themed joint with Mario Kart battles, karaoke rooms and a dry ice spa.
Overview
So often, when we think about Japan, we think of the kawaii side: Hello Kitties serving up cute looks and bento boxes. But South Yarra's new 'outlaw-Tokyo-biker-gang-themed' joint (their words) is less about throwing up a peace sign and more about throwing you through a glass window for not minding your business. The burger bar/sake den takes aesthetic inspiration from Tokyo's sleek and sexy club scene and the outlaw biker gang for which it is named. Bosozoku is the big, bawdy brainchild of Craig Kellerman, Dan Hansen (Lady Grange and the Mauer Brothers Bird Watching Society) and it's got a lot going on.
First off, there's the bombastic burger menu, curated by chef Tomoya Kawasaki (ex-Wabi Sabi). It's a bit pricey for your average burger but, then again, they're not your average burger. The 'Die by the Sword' features a crumbed swordfish steak wrapped in a green tea brioche bun ($15) and the 'Road Rage' is sliced M57 wagyu on a beetroot brioche ($18). At the fanciest end of the spectrum is 'The Boss' — an indulgent, fresh lobster tail stuffed beetroot roll that will cost you a mere 42 dollarydoos. You can take your burger as a bento box, if you so choose, and add sides like chicken karaage ($14), gyoza ($8), edamame ($5) and katsu curry fries ($6 small, $9 large). This may sound meat-heavy, and that's because it is, but there are also plenty of vego, GF and vegan options available and substitutions are welcomed.
Remember, this is a sake den too and you'll find a tonne of the stuff at the bar. They're also serving up standard offerings with a Japanese twist — think wasabi Bloody Marys, cherry blossom infused gin, and an array of Japanese beers. Once you're fuelled up, the fun can really begin and Bosozoku has spared no expense in providing the entertainment for its 200-seater. In the sprawling club, you'll find pool tables, Mario Kart battles, an outdoor firepit, karaoke rooms, Hitachi train sets and a dry ice spa, which is an empty spa pumping out dry ice. Why not.
Look, it definitely sounds weird but we reckon it works. Dust off your leathers because it's open now, but please don't actually throw anyone through a window — we're fairly certain that would be looked down upon.
UPDATE SEPTEMBER 19, 2017: Bosozoku has just announced Teriyummy Tuesday where, every Tuesday from 5pm till midnight, all gyoza is $1 each. Yep, a single buck. If you've ever wanted to shout everyone in a restaurant a round of something, this may be your best opportunity. Gyoza's on you.
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