UPDATE Tuesday, July 19: Due to popular demand, Mr Miyagi in the Big Smoke has been extended and will now run until Saturday, September 3. To make a booking, jump over to the website. The following article has been updated to reflect the change.
After close to a decade of winning hearts and bellies on Chapel Street, Mr Miyagi is spreading its wings for its first-ever CBD pop-up. The modern Japanese spot is teaming up with QT Melbourne and taking over the hotel's Hot Sauce Laneway (Portland Lane) for a two-month stint devoted to smoke, fire and meat.
Thursday to Saturday nights, from June 30–September 3, Mr Miyagi in the Big Smoke will be dishing up a new menu of Japanese delights, starring plenty of goodies cooked over binchōtan (white charcoal).
Bringing the fire to this winter pop-up are dishes like a togorashi lamb chop teamed with shiso dressing, and an edamame and pea smash; a play on the classic smoked salmon; miso-glazed cornbread; nori tortillas with yuzu yoghurt and rockling; and a dessert they've dubbed the Hickory Smoked Miso Caramel Coal.
A supporting drinks list pays equal homage to smoke and char, featuring sips like the Golden Gai — a riff on the Manhattan starring chocolate, whisky and vermouth. Mr Miyagi's usual lineup of signature Cocky T's will also be on offer if you'd prefer to quench your thirst with the likes of the Hello Kitty Sour.
You can book your table online — sittings are at 5pm, 5.15pm, 6.45pm, 7pm, 8.30pm and 8.45pm Thursday to Saturday.
Images: Pete Dillon