Ok-oh-nom-ee-ah-kee. I know, it’s a mouthful. You might have seen this exotic word on various Canberra menus of late as it’s fast becoming a popular addition.
What is it? In a nutshell, it’s a fried savoury pancake of cabbage and sweet potato topped with zingy sauce – usually served with an egg. Flavours are sweet, savoury, spicy with ginger and smoky with the flavour of dashi.
It first became popular in Japan during World War II as rice was scarce and the dish could be made without it, and quite filling. Today many places inject their creativity and adapt the recipe to hero many different ingredients.
Tried, tested and approved from yours truly, here are three versions you need in your life.
Penny University – 15 Kennedy St, Kingston
One of my favourites, this okonomiyaki is packed full of shitake mushrooms, sweet potato and shallots topped with a Japanese pickle and green leaf salad. Finished with Nori and miso mayo and house-made Japanese BBQ sauce. Add a fried egg or bacon if you’re feeling it!
Space Kitchen – 12 Furzer Street (corner Of Furzer St &, Worgan St), Phillip
Known for their visually stimulating menu, Space Kitchen lives up to their reputation when it comes to their take on the okonomiyaki. Displayed as a porcini mushroom and potato ‘nest’, it’s plated up with a locally-sourced free range poached egg, pickled vegetables & Kewpie mayo.
Tokyo Canteen – 38 Eyre St, Kingston
As authentic as it gets, Tokyo Canteen offers a breakfast spin with all of the classic ingredients, topped with crunchy bonito flakes, greens and a fried egg. Smothered in sauce, this will leave you satisfied and coming back again, and again.
Kate Hudson
Kate Hudson is a freelance writer with a mission to prove that Canberra is a fabulous place to live. As an avid coffee drinker, breakfast connoisseur and self-confessed 'eater-outerer' she will help you decide where to go for the best experience. She loves a grungy music gig, local beer, fancy french toast, and has a soft spot for the Southside.