REVIEW
Izakaya Den has all the hallmarks of an ideal Tinder venue: a tucked-away CBD location, flattering lighting, local wines and interesting cocktails. There are even barstools that fit two humans side by side with a seat at the bar primo, the tap-tap of knives a pleasant counterpoint to booming tunes. After eight years, the industrial décor could do with some refreshing, but the food is still sharp. Dishes are ideal for sharing, crisp leaves of fried kale, for instance, with golden toasted buckwheat and a dash of agedashi sauce. Thin pieces of tuna tataki are laid over two different condiments – wasabi tartare and garlic chilli – while fried chicken is juicy with subtle curry notes and a generous dollop of mayonnaise. The charcoal grill blisters a handful of shishito peppers, one in every few offering a bullet of heat. For dessert, squares of date-friendly ganache are hard to pass up, each sprinkled with matcha powder, say, or ground chilli. Take your pick.
Phone:
(03) 9654 2977
Website:
Bookings:
Bookings lunch only
Features:
Licensed
Bar
Vegetarian-friendly
Impressive Wine List
Accepted card types:
American Express
Eftpos
MasterCard
Visa
Chef(s):
Kenichi Okumura
This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide’s reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way.
Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide
Wine: ★ ★
Gourmet Traveller’s star-ratings, which range from zero to three stars, reflect reviewers’ first-hand experiences. The best-rated restaurants form our national Top 100. Our wine ratings, from zero to three stars, are made by wine editor Max Allen on the strength of the quality of the restaurant’s wine list. View our rating key here.
