From the mind of Chris Lucas (Chin Chin, Hawker Hall, Kisume, Grill Americano, Society) comes the 80 Collins venture, Yakimono — a two-storey Japanese diner with a street food menu that's fuelled by fire.
An ode to the late-night izakayas of Tokyo — where Lucas spent three years living and working — it's serving a fresh riff on Japanese street eats, melding classic flavours with a touch of Melbourne flair.
Pete Dillon
Heading up the kitchen, Huxtaburger's Daniel Wilson is plating up an offering of adventurous dishes, with bites like spicy tuna tartare, curried sweet potato gyoza with miso apple yoghurt, and skewers of wagyu beef intercostal in a smoky soy glaze.
Barbecued king salmon is finished with tomato ponzu and pickled cucumbers; a chicken katsu comes teamed with puffed rice and katsu curry; and you could easily fill up on some of the many sushi and sashimi dishes available.
Adrian Lander
Meanwhile, the bar is pouring ten beers and four wines on tap alongside a selection of bottled vino and sake that doesn't take itself too seriously. A range of Japanese-accented cocktails and bubble tea rounds out the liquid fun.
It's a moody, yet colourful space, with digital art and clever lighting lending a futuristic edge. Both the central open kitchen and the bar feature ringside seats for those wanting to be close to the action, while the Corner Room boasts private dining for up to 14 guests.
Top images: Pete Dillon and Adrian Lander