In Federation Square, the heart of Melbourne, where it is always noisy, there is a popular Japanese restaurant just next to the ACMI called Chocolate Buddha.
Upon entering the restaurant, you will see their unique interior design of all sorts of Buddha statues gathered from all over Asia. These statues bring a strong oriental feel that may make you forget that you are in the center of Melbourne. For each statues, there is a small metal plate identifying the year and country of origin of the statues.
Now in summer, the seats outside are also highly recommended since you can enjoy the beautiful skyline in Southbank while you enjoy the gourmet. On really hot days, a sip of cool beer in the warm breeze may bring out the feel of happiness and the bar in Chocolate Buddha actually has a lot more to offer than just beer. You are welcome to stay until late night.
In fact, Melbourne’s own star chef Kin San became the dining consultant of Chocolate Buddha’s, which brings the quality of dining here to the next level. He emphasizes the quality and freshness of the material, the skill of the chefs, and the presentation of the dishes. Mr. Masayuki Yoshida is whom Kin san trusts the Head Chef position with.
Chef Profile
Mr. Masayuki Yoshida
After accumulating experience in a Sushi house in Japan, Mr. Yoshida came to Australia, and up til now he has 13 years of experience in Melbourne’s Japanese restaurants. Took the position of Head Chef in November last year, he has been utilizing his professional experience in managing the quality of the food and handling the fish.
He also took an active part in developing the new menu which is scheduled to be revealed soon. “Federation Square is where people from all over the world gather in Melbourne, I would like to show them the image of an active Japan,” says Mr. Yoshida.
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Small Sushi & Sashimi Platter
Enjoy the fresh Sushi and Sashimi Platter of salmon, tuna and yellowtail. The fish is delicate, the presentation is beautiful. This is what authentic Japanese taste is like.
Tempura Pumpkin Roll
Pumpkin Tempura with avocado and beetroot inside. This is not only a colorful dish but also a very healthy one. Also ideal for fellow vegetarians.
Tori Tatsuta & Edamame
Freshly fried chicken with mayonnaise and chili mayonnaise! Our editor was already hungry by just looking and smelling at it!
Edamame is a must-have for beer lovers! It goes very well with the fried chicken and Japanese Sake. Does it remind you of Izakaya – the Japanese pub?
Yakitori Skewers
BBQ chicken skewer on top of rice. Hmmm, yummy. Sesames, cucumber and spinach make the skewers smell even better. A real temptation!
Tori Miso Ramen
Kin San and Mr. Yoshida are trying to bring the original Japanese miso ramen to Melbourne. Keeping this thought in mind, they presented us with this modified fresh dish with chicken instead of Japanese BBQ pork. For those who are into Japanese ramen, you really should try this.
Nasu Dengaku
The hot eggplant and miso paste are always the perfect match. This dish could remind you of Japan.
Shake Teriyaki
BBQ Salmon on okras. It looks amazing? It tastes even better.
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Dishes that match Kirin Megumi
According to Kin San, Kirin Megumi tastes cool and fresh which is ideal with Japanese cuisine. It doesn’t disturb the delicate taste of Japanese dishes, well on the other hand it obtains its own subtle delicious taste. In the event season that draws closer, enjoy a great beer while you have fun in Federation Square. The skillful chefs will also present you the gourmet in which they put their thoughts and effort. That’s how you enjoy your summer.
Chocolate Buddha
URL: http://www.chocolatebuddha.com.au/
Address: Federation Square, Cnr of Swanston Street & Flinders street
Melbourne, Victoria 3000
TEL：(03)9654 5688
Opening Hours: Daily noon-11.30pm
