Kiri Japanese

In Japanese tradition, a Kiri tree is planted in the garden when a girl is born. When she's about to marry, the “princess tree” is cut down and made into a dresser or chest of drawers as part of her wedding dowry.

Shenton Park diner Kiri is named after this highly prized tree and celebrates Japanese tradition with a slight modern-Australian twist. It started as a tiny takeaway joint, but then the husband-and-wife team took over the neighbouring building, establishing a dark and intimate sibling in which diners can enjoy their sophisticated creations.

Paying tribute to their Kyoto roots, the restaurant is sparsely decorated with seasonally changing objects, such as acorns, to symbolise the festivals taking place in their hometown.

Specialising in authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly from Kyoto, the menu features skilfully sliced sashimi, alongside seared wagyu served sizzling with ponzu and soy; and delicately smokey fish cooked on a Japanese grill.

A traditional kaiseki, a degustation featuring multiple courses designed around the seasons, is available with notice. Without a liquor licence, sake is off the menu unless you bring your own – so show up prepared.

If not you’ll be limited to authentic green tea and run-of-the-mill soft drinks.