Basement level, 139 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC
Photo Credit Eve Wilson
Located in the bustling Bourke Street precinct in Melbourne’s CBD, Ishizuka is a celebrated subterranean 16-seat restaurant that shares the rarefied world of Kaiseki – the Japanese haute cuisine that sits amongst the world’s finest food experiences. Since opening in 2018, Ishizuka has established its position as one of Australia’s most esteemed dining destinations, distinguished by a reverence for authentic flavours derived from fresh, seasonal produce that beautifully balances taste, texture and expert precision.
Practised only by the most experienced culinary masters, Kaiseki is guided by a formal, multi-course structure, presenting the chef’s traditional and imaginative approach toward seasonal produce. The cultivation of a holistic dining experience is central to Kaiseki tradition, with practitioners striving for excellence with every detail.
The nightly set menu of up to 11 courses is a gradual journey of discovering authentic flavours. From the meticulously prepared menu to its artful presentation – including exquisite edible garnishes designed to resemble flora and fauna – the dining experience is complemented by a tremendous sense of theatre, enriched by a selection of tableware, intricate food presentation and an exclusive, intimate dining setting.
In keeping with this ethos of refined craftsmanship, every aspect of the dining process has been mapped with extraordinary attention to detail. The odyssey of flavours is enjoyed within a space designed by award-winning architecture and design practice Russell & George. Evoking memories of Japanese dining fused with the contemporary cool of Melbourne’s CBD, Russell & George imbue the rich history of Kaiseki into a space that is timeless and immersive in its design, creating a transcendental culinary experience.
Bringing rich Japanese traditions to life, Ishizuka displays an unwavering commitment to the idea of cuisine as a refined art form, delivering a culinary sensorial experience filled with emotion, passion and artful dexterity for customers to enjoy time and time again.
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