Japanese Food Archives - Eat Canberra

Where to find Bento Boxes in Canberra

Posted on 22/01/202322/01/2023 by Amelia Bidgood

One of our many favourite things about Japan is the range of high-quality bento boxes. There’s something very special about a selection of delicious Japanese dishes arranged neatly in a compartmented box that’s easily transportable.

Whether you’re looking for a takeaway to eat at your desk or a fine-dining version for a special occasion, Canberra has an abundance of Japanese restaurants so there’s a good variety to choose from. We’ve rounded up some of the best places that offer bento boxes in the nation’s capital.

Express lunch at Inka

Posted on 27/11/202208/12/2022 by Amelia Bidgood

Inka dishes up Nikkei-style food with elements of Peruvian food and Japanese food with cooking techniques from both cultures, in a stylish and dramatic two-storey restaurant adorned with South American design features.

Located in the heart of the city on Bunda St, Inka has impressed diners in Canberra with its unique Japanese and Peruvian fusions flavours since it opened in early 2021. If you haven’t visited yet, you’re missing out and their $45 express lunch might be just the thing to entice you to make a booking.

Robatayaki at Mu: The 13-course Japanese dining experience you need to try

Posted on 01/08/202201/08/2022 by Amelia Bidgood

The popular omakase experience at Mu has been transformed into a 13-course robatayaki experience. Located at Constitution Place, Mu adjoins Cicada Bar and sits under the highly regarded Chairman Group of restaurants. There are only 10 seats available in the small dining room however they can cater for up to 16 diners for each sitting, using the private tables at Cicada Bar.

All hail the Okonomiyaki pancake! Here are three versions to add to your ‘to eat’ list

Posted on 28/07/202228/07/2022 by Kate Hudson

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.