Mr Myagi
At 5:30pm on a weekday Mr Myagi begins to swell with diners.
And if Instagram is a measure of popularity, MrM has reached cult status with more than 46,000 followers.
People love Mr Myagi. The line of people and the followers symbolise an appreciation of the fine but relaxed Japanese fusion and the dining experience — both of which are exemplary.
The Chapel Street restaurant is medium-sized and the entry is a long, sloped timber floor – there’s a good amount of space in high traffic areas. There are slight traditional Japanese touches offset by bright colourful lighting. Minimal ornament and clean lines juxtaposed with neon pink lights.
Watching the restaurant staff in action was like seeing a choreographer dance. Front of house staff are light on their feet and performed half-spins as they swapped positions. The open kitchen was the same but in a smaller confine and with added bobbing and arching.
The Godzilla Beans — tempura covered salt and vinegar runners — were delicious and moreish. The Green Tea Soba Noodle Salad was extraordinary; subtle layers of flavours balanced to perfection. Good authority has it the Yellow Curry and Shitake Dumplings are excellent too.
Staff are very attentive, quick with a smile and to top up a glass. The accessible toilet is at the back near Yukies, past the kitchen. There are high stools for dining in the window-front and at the back while the low seating is closest to the front entryway for diners.
Mr Myagi has a low-fuss atmosphere and exquisite food. Mr M states on the menu — ‘Decision not so important. All tastes good’ — and he’s probably right. Bring friends and cover a table with dumplings, nori, tempura and cocktails.
Mr Myagi is open the following times: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 5:00pm–10:30pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 5:00pm–10:30pm. Open daily except public holidays.
Step-free entry / Accessible toilet
Good: Sublime Japanese fusion (plus the bill comes in a pink envelope with the word ‘the damage’ stamped on it)
Not So: More low seating would be nice, domo arigato.
Mr Myagi
99 Chapel Street, Windsor VIC 3181
03 9529 5999
mrmiyagi.com.au