Prepare to embark on a self-guided culinary and cultural journey celebrating Japanese flavours, craftsmanship and tradition at South Melbourne Market at the start of June.
Tickets are now on sale for the market’s ‘A Foodie Affair: Flavours of Japan’, which will run from June 4-14.
The event forms part of the popular ‘Foodie Affair’ series for the market, with the truffle, seafood and fromage events proving a must-visit attraction for locals and visitors.
South Melbourne Market invites visitors to immerse their senses in a self-guided degustation and shopping experience that explores the rich culinary heritage and timeless artistry of Japan. Running across six select dates in June, this event offers a delicious and inspiring journey through 10 exclusive Japanese-inspired dishes, one refreshing drink and a series of immersive experiences that connect marketgoers with the beauty and elegance of Japanese culture.
Ticketholders can wander the market at their own pace, sampling a curated menu of unique bites crafted by some of South Melbourne Market’s most beloved traders including:
•Agathe Patisserie – devour a hojicha-infused mini croissant filled with homemade strawberry jam.
•Bambu – try pork gyoza and spicy ponzu sauce.
•Cobb Lane Bakery – sample matcha cheesecake with red bean mousse covered with a red bean veil.
•Fritz Gelato – award-winning gelato with traditional Japanese match and organic milk and sugar.
•Greek’n Out – delicious shallow-fried calamari with togarashi and yuzu aioli.
•My Cookie Factory – black sesame cookies with gooey sesame centre and crispy edges, served warm.
•Oyster Bar by Aptus – torched salmon sashimi with soy, mirin and sake glaze.
•Simply Spanish – chorizo and prawn dumplings with shiitake mushroom, chestnut, sesame, bonito flakes and vinegar dipping sauce.
•Smithburg – Panko-crumbed eggplant, katsu curry sauce, mayo, togarashi seasoning and pickled cabbage.
•Tea Drop – matcha white chocolate-coated strawberry with choice of either an iced matcha or iced hojicha drink.
•UGO Burrata Bar – burrata hiyayakko with green onion, bonito flakes, ginger, soy sauce dressing, burrata and edamame.
Alongside the food, guests will be treated to a deeper experience of Japanese traditions through artisan homewares and accessories from traders in the market’s SO:ME Space.
Explore the cultural significance behind the tea ceremony (sado), flower arrangement (kado) and incense appreciation (kodo) at Osara and discover wearable art made from traditional Japanese kimono fabric at Tomi Art.
Flavours of Japan Discovery Bag:
Guests can elevate their experience by adding a Flavours of Japan Discovery Bag, available for $50. This thoughtfully curated take-home gift includes matcha or incense, gourmet Japanese pantry staples, exclusive discounts and a stunning Japanese art card - the perfect way to continue your culinary and cultural journey at home.
In addition to the ticketed event, market traders will be offering free tastings of soba noodles and Japanese wine, beer, whisky and sake, so there will be something for everyone!
When: June 4 to 14, with two sessions each day (11 am or 1 pm on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays).
Price: $79 or $129 bundle ticket (including Flavours of Japan Discovery Bag).
