Yakimono

From the first glimpse of the fluorescent neon sign to the initial aromatic punch of the smoke from the Josper grill, Yakimono is heavy on the senses. Ascending the stairs into the Tokyo-influenced diner just off Collins Street, you're met with a futuristic space, a kaleidoscope of colour that bounces through various glass tints, pendant lights and neon strips. 

'Yaki' which translates to 'grill' in Japanese is the name of the game here, specialising in various Yakitori-style dishes and staples of the late-night Izakaya bars. The inspiration behind Yakimono was drawn from restauranteur Chris Lucas's own time spent in the country. 

Sitting on the bar at Yakimono is the best seat in the house, a chance to take in the organised frenzy of the kitchen team as they raise and lower the Josper grills and smoke steams high above as they sear pieces of miso-glazed chicken and skewers of duck Tsukune. 

The grill plays a central role at Yakimono, with the menu being predominately centred around the smoky flavour and texture it provides—whether that takes form in barbecued corn ribs with fermented chilli mayo or grilled wagyu rump cap with a rich Kabayaki sauce. 

The drinks list which is equally as dialled in as the food menu, features a whole swath of playful options rooted in Japanese-style flavours from the zesty and spicy Nipori with Mezcal, shiso jalapeño, rose vermouth & lime to the Yakimono take on martinis with the Shimbashi topped with sake, umeshu and sakura liqueur.

Image credit: Yakimono (supplied)