Robata Melbourne: Japanese Dining at it’s Finest
When it comes to dining out in Melbourne, the options can feel endless. Yet, once in a while, you stumble across a place that’s so good, you can’t stop telling everyone about it.
That’s how I felt after a visit to Robata, a sleek Japanese restaurant in the heart of the city. Known for its charcoal grill-inspired dishes and contemporary twists on traditional Japanese fare, Robata delivers on all fronts – flavour, ambience, and value.
Consistently praised for its fresh ingredients and bold flavours, Robata has earned a reputation as one of the best Japanese restaurants in Melbourne. Whether you’re indulging in the seasonal set menu, lunch specials, or à la carte options, it’s an experience that celebrates Japanese cuisine with Melbourne sophistication.
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits including accessibility for Robata Melbourne
Robata Melbourne Menu: Worth Savouring Anytime
Robata’s set menu offers a carefully curated selection of dishes that highlight Robata’s signature charcoal-grilled skewers and bold, fresh flavours. Here’s what you can expect:
- Small plates: A mix of light starters such as edamame, sashimi, and seasonal handrolls.
- Yakitori skewers: Grilled chicken thigh, chicken meatball, and rotating seasonal vegetables.
- Larger plates: Dishes like premium grilled beef, seasonal vegetables, and yaki onigiri (grilled rice balls).
- Dessert: A decadent sweet course, often featuring Japanese flavours like black sesame or matcha.
This thoughtfully crafted menu changes slightly each season, ensuring diners always enjoy the freshest ingredients and new flavours. View the Robata Melbourne menu here.
A La Carte Options at Robata – A Feast for All Tastes
If you’d prefer to skip the set menu and build your own meal, Robata’s à la carte menu is equally impressive.
The focus is on Japanese charcoal-grilled skewers, fresh sashimi, and hearty mains, making it easy to mix and match dishes to suit your cravings.
View the Robata Melbourne menu here.
Lunchtime Perfection at Robata
If you’re visiting during the day, Robata’s lunch specials offer great value without compromising on quality.
- Robata Bento Box ($26): An ideal choice if you want to try a bit of everything. It includes fresh sashimi, the robatayaki of the day, yaki onigiri, housemade pickles, and miso soup – a delightful mix of flavours and textures.
- Chicken Katsu Sandwich ($19): Crispy, golden-fried chicken served on fluffy housemade shokupan bread, perfect for a handheld lunchtime feast.
- Crispy Tofu Sandwich ($19): A delicious vegetarian option with tofu coated in a crunchy crust, paired with the same soft, housemade shokupan.
Pair your meal with a refreshing Yuzu Spritz or an Iced Matcha Latte to elevate your lunch experience.
Related reading: 14 Midweek Specials For a Cheap Lunch in Melbourne CBD
Why Visit Robata Melbourne?
Beyond the food, what sets Robata apart is its inviting atmosphere. The sleek, modern interiors, warm lighting, and open kitchen create a welcoming, intimate atmosphere. Watching the chefs expertly grill skewers over the flickering robata flames adds a touch of theatre to your meal.
Whether you’re dining solo, enjoying a relaxed meal with friends, or celebrating a special occasion, Robata offers something for everyone.
Service is impeccable too – the staff are knowledgeable and eager to guide you through the menu, suggesting dishes or drinks to suit your taste.
For anyone looking for a valuable dining experience, Robata easily ranks among the best Japanese restaurants Melbourne has to offer, thanks to its thoughtful presentation, creative flavour pairings, and welcoming atmosphere.
Side Trip
Bundle up your meal with one of these outing ideas located nearby Robata:
- Take a stroll around Fitzroy Gardens;
- Explore Parliament House on a free walking tour;
- Drop into NGV Australia for a free highlights tour;
- Uncover the Fascinating Story of the Moving Image at ACMI;
- Step back in time for free at the Old Treasury Building Melbourne;
- Visit Victoria’s most visited sacred site, St Paul’s Cathedral.
Planning Your Visit
Located on the corner Exhibition and Flinders Street, Robata is ideally positioned for a weekday lunch, pre-theatre meal, or a laid-back dinner. This place is easy to love and even easier to recommend.
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
- Book ahead: It’s a popular spot, so a reservation is a good idea.
- Try the skewers: The robatayaki is the heart of the menu, so don’t miss out on those smoky, grilled delights.
- Go hungry: While the portions are well-balanced, the multi-course format means you’ll leave satisfied.
- Menu: View the Robata Melbourne menu here.
- Dietaries: Requests can be accommodated.
- Be aware of surcharges: A 10% surcharge is applied on weekends and a 15% surcharge is applied to the final total of the bill on all public holidays. We were even given a group surcharge for having a table of 10 people!
- Try the drinks: Their sake list is impressive, and the staff can help you find the perfect pairing. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, their Japanese-inspired mocktails are equally delightful.
Accessibility at Robata Melbourne
- The location is on the ground floor, with no steps at the entrance;
- Accessible toilet located near the entrance.
Robata Melbourne
Open Tuesday – Saturday: 12pm-11pm
2 Exhibition Street, Melbourne
Ph: (03) 9989 3575
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