This Japanese Hidden Gem in Dockslands is a Must Visit

At a Glance

Modern Japanese Brunch in a quiet areof Docklands. Great quality food. Unique menu options. Excellent presentationto match the flavour. Japanese comfort food perfect for brunch any day of theweek.

Cuisine: Modern Japanese
Location: Docklands, VIC
Price Point: ~$30 - $$40pp for a meal
Best For: casual catch-ups, brunch, drinks
Licensed: Yes
Dietary Options: Limited (vegetarian options available)
Visited: Weekend brunch

First Impression

Kome Eatery is a modern Japanesebrunch spot in Docklands that works well for a relaxed catch up over good food.I visited looking for a hearty Japanese-style brunch, and the first thing thatstood out was the space itself. It is open, bright, and welcoming, with plentyof natural light that makes it easy to settle in and take your time.

Dish Breakdown

Kome Eatery’s menu focuses on Japanesecomfort food that fits naturally into a brunch setting. You will find onigiri,sandos, rice bowls, and teishoku sets, alongside coffee, matcha, and evenalcoholic options like sake and highballs.

One of the dishes I tried was the Wagyu& Co, a wagyu rice bowl served with sautéed mushrooms. The wagyu wastender and well cooked, carrying a balance of sweet and savoury flavours thatpaired nicely with the rice. It felt rich but not overwhelming, while themushrooms added an earthy note that kept the dish grounded.

The Chicken Katsu Sando wasanother solid choice. The chicken thigh was crispy on the outside and juicyinside, with a well-seasoned crumb. The slaw added freshness and crunch,helping balance out the richness of the fried chicken. It was simple, wellexecuted, and satisfying without trying too hard.

The clear highlight of the meal wasthe Unagi Katsu. Deep fried eel is not something you come across often,and I am not aware of any other restaurant in Melbourne currently offering it.The unagi kept its familiar sweet and savoury flavour, while the frying added acrisp texture that made the dish stand out. It was indulgent, filling, andgenuinely memorable.

The Setting

The venueitself plays a big role in the overall experience. The dining area is spaciouswith good lighting, making it comfortable for longer visits. The crowd feltrelaxed, with a mix of small groups and casual diners. Service was friendly andattentive without being intrusive, which suited the laid back brunchatmosphere.

Value & Verdict

Whileprices sit slightly higher, with the Unagi Katsu priced at $35, the portionsare fair and the quality of the food makes it feel worthwhile. Moreimportantly, the flavours deliver. Everything tasted thoughtful, well cooked,and satisfying, with dishes that felt comforting rather than overworked. KomeEatery is well suited to anyone looking for a hearty Japanese brunch where thefood actually lives up to the menu. It is a place I enjoyed eating at, and oneI would happily return to, especially to explore more of what they offer.

Final Impression

In a city full of Japaneserestaurants, finding a dish you cannot get anywhere else is rare. The unagikatsu at Kome Eatery is exactly that.

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