Izakaya Den

The verdict

To say Izakaya Den is 'hard to find' is an understatement; but when you do manage to find the barely-signed stairwell on Russell Street and dare to peer behind the black curtain at the bottom, you will surely discover Melbourne's best kept izakaya secret. This Japanese restaurant is a basement straight out of Tokyo, from the dimly lit corridor, to the polite and efficient service, and let's not forget to mention the sake. Take a friend and share a myriad of small dishes gracefully prepared before your very eyes; the chefs put on quite the display along the entire length of the restaurant. You will become mesmerised by the entire dining and entertainment experience, don't forget to keep your eye out for Master Den.