Yūgen Dining, South Yarra: Subterranean Japanese Fine Dining Beneath Chapel Street

On the corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, a doorway at 605 Chapel Street, South Yarra, leads somewhere unexpected. Descend below street level and you arrive at YÅ«gen, a bold, subterranean fine dining restaurant in a cavernous, design-led space. YÅ«gen serves a refined fusion of Japanese and Asian-inspired cuisine alongside expertly crafted cocktails, and it describes itself as one of Melbourne's best Japanese restaurants.

A dramatic space below the street

The setting is part of the experience. YÅ«gen includes an 85-seat modern fine dining restaurant, a sophisticated cocktail bar, an exclusive six-seat omakase counter and a dining room unlike any other. The venue features six-metre-high stone walls with refined industrial interiors and luxurious bespoke furniture and fabrics, and the restaurant calls it Melbourne's only exclusive subterranean event space.

Japanese flavours with bold Asian influences

The kitchen draws on the cultural diversity of Asia, combining traditional Japanese flavours with bold Asian influences. Diners can expect expertly crafted nigiri and premium sashimi, signature dishes featuring select cuts of wagyu, and the finest seasonal ingredients, sourced from trusted local suppliers. There are plant-based options for vegetarian and vegan guests, light bites for those at the bar, and handcrafted desserts inspired by modern Japanese and Asian cuisine.

For a special night, the six-course Chef's Experience tasting menu can be matched with paired wines and sake, while groups of seven or more can enjoy a banquet menu designed for sharing.

An intimate omakase

YÅ«gen Omakase is the most intimate seat in the house. With just six seats at the mezzanine bar, Chef Samuel Chee and the sushi chefs guide guests through a personalised, multi-course exploration of seasonal, ocean-fresh produce, with each course prepared in front of you. The restaurant says the omakase has been awarded Two Hats for the fifth consecutive year in the Good Food Guide Awards. Because the menu changes daily with the produce, it is not suitable for many dietary requirements, so check the details before booking.

Sake, wine and cocktails

Drinks are taken just as seriously. YÅ«gen pours 20 sakes by the glass across five styles, with 50 more by the bottle and in-house sake sommeliers to guide you. The wine list features around 250 varietals from local and international producers, and the cocktail bar is a destination in its own right.

The Golden Orb and private events

For celebrations, YÅ«gen has some memorable options. The Golden Orb is a private, orb-shaped dining room suspended dramatically from the ceiling, seating six to nine guests with a view over the whole restaurant. Larger groups can book banquette tables or a golden-curtained semi-private area, and the entire venue can be hired for seated events or cocktail parties across two floors.

Visit YÅ«gen

YÅ«gen is open Wednesday to Sunday from 6pm until late. Reservations are made online, and the events team can help with group bookings. Call the restaurant or email info@yugen.com.au for enquiries.

Contact

YÅ«gen Dining
605 Chapel Street, South Yarra VIC 3141 (corner Chapel Street and Toorak Road)
Phone: (03) 7000 3232
Email: info@yugen.com.au
Website: yugendining.com.au
Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 6pm–late

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