The Modern Eatery Is Melbourne's New Restaurant Dedicated to Aburi Sushi

Out to bridge the gap between quickly-scoffed lunchtime sushi and expensive Japanese fare, best mates Edward Teh and Jason Tan launched Fremantle restaurant The Modern Eatery in 2014. Specialising in aburi sushi — that is, where the fish is partially scorched and partially raw — the Japanese-inspired haunt has since become a WA favourite, loved for its clever flavour pairings and dishes that are almost too pretty to eat.

Having also added a Mount Lawley restaurant to the family, the boys now have their sights set on Melbourne, next week opening the doors to a Richmond outpost — and the first east coast edition of The Modern Eatery.

The two-level, 90-seat Swan Street space has been designed by Studio Equator (who've previously lent their talents to Chalawan and Glamp), and its interiors offer a relaxed rendition of their signature Japanese sleekness.

From the open sushi bar, diners can expect a similar food offering to the one winning fans out west, from classic uramaki rolls, melt-in-your-mouth sashimi and nigiri through to a range of hot dishes, and oshi (or compressed sushi). Meanwhile, a line-up of 'craft' rolls is more like edible art than anything else, featuring creations like the Chasing Sunset with garlic mayo, spring onion, and tiny sweet potato fries atop a mix of salmon, cucumber and egg, and the green leaf roll, which rocks a combo of deep fried zucchini, cream cheese and a lotus chip.

While the restaurant will open officially on Monday, August 14, they'll be holding a soft launch this weekend (August 12 and 13) where they'll be doing all food at half price for lunch and dinner.

The Modern Eatery opens on Monday, August 14 at 176 Swan Street, Cremorne. For more info, visit themoderneatery.com.au.