Izakaya Den Melbourne: Your Ultimate Guide to Japanese Gastronomy

Melbourne’s culinary scene is renowned for its diversity and innovation, and Izakaya Den stands out as a shining example of authentic Japanese cuisine. Nestled in the heart of the city at 114 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia, Izakaya Den offers a unique dining experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Japan. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or celebrate a special occasion with friends and family. They’re open Monday to Saturday, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM, making it an ideal choice for dinner. For reservations or inquiries, you can reach them at +61 3 9654 2977. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey filled with exquisite flavors and impeccable service.

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Menu Highlights

Here’s a glimpse into the extensive and delightful menu at Izakaya Den:

Small Dishes (Kobachi)

Edamame: Steamed soybeans sprinkled with sea salt, a classic Japanese snack.
Hiyayakko: Cold tofu with ginger, scallions, and soy sauce, refreshing and light.
Agedashi Tofu: Deep-fried tofu in dashi broth, topped with grated daikon, delicate flavour.
Nasudengaku: Miso-glazed eggplant, sweet, savory, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Kimchi: Spicy fermented cabbage, a Korean staple with a Japanese twist.
Oshinko: Pickled vegetables, a colorful and tangy palate cleanser.
Gomaae: Spinach with sesame dressing, a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Sunomono: Cucumber salad with vinegar dressing, light and refreshing option.
Takowasa: Raw octopus with wasabi, a pungent and unique flavor experience.
Mozuku Seaweed: Vinegared mozuku seaweed, slippery texture and ocean-fresh taste.

Salads

Seaweed Salad: Mixed seaweed with sesame dressing, healthy and refreshing choice.
Salmon Salad: Fresh salmon with mixed greens and a tangy dressing, delightful.
Tofu Salad: Crispy tofu with mixed greens and sesame dressing, satisfying and light.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette, rich flavour.
Kani Salad: Crab meat with cucumber, mayonnaise, and tobiko, a seafood sensation.

Sashimi & Sushi

Salmon Sashimi: Slices of fresh salmon, served with soy sauce and wasabi.
Tuna Sashimi: Slices of fresh tuna, a classic and flavorful choice.
Scallop Sashimi: Fresh scallop slices, sweet and delicate in taste, great texture.
Kingfish Sashimi: Slices of fresh kingfish, rich and buttery taste, delicious.
Salmon Nigiri: Salmon on sushi rice, a quintessential sushi experience.
Tuna Nigiri: Tuna on sushi rice, simple, classic, and always satisfying.
Eel Nigiri (Unagi): Grilled eel on sushi rice, glazed with sweet soy sauce.
Avocado Roll: Avocado rolled in sushi rice and seaweed, vegetarian-friendly delight.
California Roll: Crab, avocado, and cucumber, popular sushi roll.
Spicy Tuna Roll: Tuna with spicy mayonnaise, a fiery and flavorful roll.

Grilled Dishes (Yakimono)

Chicken Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers with teriyaki sauce, classic Japanese street food.
Beef Kushiyaki: Grilled beef skewers with a savory sauce, tender and flavorful.
Pork Belly Skewers: Grilled pork belly skewers, crispy and juicy.
Salmon Teriyaki: Grilled salmon with teriyaki sauce, a sweet and savory classic.
Eggplant Teriyaki: Grilled eggplant with teriyaki sauce, vegetarian-friendly and delicious.
Miso Black Cod: Grilled black cod marinated in miso, rich and flavorful.
Wagyu Beef: Grilled wagyu beef, melt-in-your-mouth texture, a premium dish.
Ika Maruyaki: Grilled whole squid, tender and flavorful, with soy sauce.
Hotate Yaki: Grilled scallops with butter and soy sauce, rich and savory.
Asparagus Bacon Wrap: Grilled asparagus wrapped in bacon, savory and satisfying appetizer.

Deep Fried (Agemono)

Chicken Karaage: Japanese fried chicken, crispy and juicy, a popular favorite.
Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, a delicious snack.
Vegetable Tempura: Assorted vegetables lightly battered and deep-fried, crispy outside.
Shrimp Tempura: Shrimp lightly battered and deep-fried, light, crispy, and flavorful.
Soft Shell Crab Tempura: Deep-fried soft-shell crab, a crispy and decadent treat.
Korokke: Japanese potato croquettes, creamy and comforting, crispy outside.
Agedashi Mochi: Deep fried mochi in dashi broth, chewy texture, delicious flavour.
Ebi Fry: Breaded and deep-fried shrimp, crispy and savory.
Takoyaki: Octopus balls with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes.
Tonkatsu: Breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet, served with tonkatsu sauce.

Rice & Noodles (Men & Donburi)

Udon Noodles: Thick wheat flour noodles in broth, comforting and filling.
Soba Noodles: Thin buckwheat noodles served cold with dipping sauce, refreshing.
Ramen: Japanese noodle soup, rich broth, toppings, eggs, pork and seaweed.
Katsudon: Pork cutlet rice bowl, savory and satisfying.
Oyakodon: Chicken and egg rice bowl, a classic comfort food.
Gyudon: Beef rice bowl, simple and flavorful.
Chahan: Japanese fried rice, flavorful and satisfying.
Curry Rice: Japanese curry with rice, flavorful and hearty meal.
Onigiri: Rice balls, filled with various ingredients.
Tamago Kake Gohan: Raw egg over rice, a simple breakfast staple.

Izakaya Den offers more than just exceptional food; it provides a complete sensory experience. The interior is thoughtfully designed, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere with dim lighting and traditional Japanese décor. The staff are attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to guide you through the menu. Prices are mid-range, reflecting the quality of ingredients and the care taken in preparation. The overall vibe is relaxed and convivial, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. Expect to spend around $50-$80 per person for a full meal with drinks.

Izakaya Den is a true gem in Melbourne’s culinary landscape. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and authentic Japanese flavors shines through in every dish. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi connoisseur or new to Japanese cuisine, you’re sure to find something to delight your palate. The Chicken Karaage is a must-try, along with the expertly crafted Sashimi and the flavorful Miso Black Cod. This spot is ideal for foodies, couples seeking a romantic dinner, and groups of friends looking for a memorable dining experience. I’d give Izakaya Den a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars for its excellent food, ambiance, and service.

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