$$$$ • Tempura • Melbourne CBD
Tonight I dined here with my daughter, and overall it was a really lovely experience.
At first, I was a little surprised by the size of the venue. I had imagined it would be bigger, but once we stepped inside, it turned out to be quite intimate. In the end, this was actually a positive.
The smaller space meant the servers could focus on a few tables at a time without feeling rushed or intrusive. We’re usually the type who don’t need much assistance, as we’re familiar with how Korean and Japanese BBQ restaurants work, and the staff seemed to pick up on that straight away.
The food portions were excellent — generous and just right for two very hungry people. We hadn’t had lunch that day, so by the time we arrived for our booking, we were absolutely starving. We ordered the Sakae En Premium Set For 2. Although the menu mentions it’s suitable for two to three people, I personally think it’s perfect for two. It’s very satisfying, and you can always add extra items afterward if needed.
The drink selection was another highlight. There were plenty of non-alcoholic options, which suited us perfectly as we don’t usually drink much when dining out. The mocktail selection was especially impressive, with lots of choices to pick from.
Finally, the service truly stood out. The staff were warm, friendly, and very attentive without being overbearing. They didn’t hover or constantly check in, but instead observed from a distance and stepped in only when needed. It was clear they could tell we were comfortable and knew what we were doing, which made the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable.
Overall, a great dining experience with excellent food, thoughtful service, and a comfortable atmosphere. We’d happily return.
