Izakaya Chuji

Lonsdale Street stalwart, Izakaya Chuji is by no means slick. The interior is prosaic, yet the atmosphere is lively and inviting and has been so since 1989. Rather than a dowdy spinster, Chuji is like the eccentric aunty, playing the latest Japanese pop music and always happy to see you.

Take a seat at a table or at the traditional counter at the end of the restaurant. Upstairs they serve Yaki Niku (traditional Japanese BBQ). The menu reflects the relaxed nature of izakaya-style eating, where it’s customary to order many small dishes and share them amongst friends.

The izakaya menu is always a great place to start your meal. Simple, well-priced dishes such as scalloped salmon cooked in sake or takoyaki (grilled octopus balls) are perfectly matched with a Sapporo on tap or sake. Take a peep at the daily specials menu as there are always new and interesting dishes. The salmon head cooked with a little salt and grilled is a local favourite. Chuji also offers a lunch menu with a variety of bento boxes.

What Izakaya Chuji lacks in sophistication it makes up for with an ample measure of charm and honest dishes. And of course once you've finished eating; next door, sister bar Nihonshu Shochu & Sake Bar will keep you going.