A Foodie Affair: Flavours of Japan

This June, immerse your senses in a self-guided culinary and shopping experience inspired by the flavours and customs of Japan through South Melbourne Market.

A Foodie Affair: Flavours of Japan invites you to embark on a delicious self-guided degustation tour, exploring the unique tastes and traditions of Japan. Enjoy a selection of dishes and experiences from Market traders that will transport you through a journey of authentic flavours and craftsmanship.

Wander at your own pace, visiting traders in any order you choose. Sample an array of Japanese-inspired delights like fresh sashimi, crispy katsu curry, juicy gyoza and indulgent matcha treats. Along the way, discover the art of the traditional tea ceremony, the beauty of flower arrangement, the rich history of incense appreciation and the elegance and tradition of Japanese kimono - all while shopping for exquisite made-in-Japan goods.

Tickets are limited – join us for this one-of-a-kind culinary and cultural adventure!

The Food Menu: 

• Agathe Patisserie - Hojicha Infused Mini Croissant filled with Homemade Strawberry Jam. (V)
• Bambu - Pork Gyoza with Spicy Ponzu Sauce.
• Cobb Lane Bakery - Matcha Cheesecake with Mochi and Red Bean.
• Fritz Gelato - Award-Winning Gelato with Traditional Japanese Matcha and Organic Milk and Sugar. (V)
• Greek'n Out - Shallow Fried Calamari Served with Togarashi and Yuzu Aioli. (V, GF)
• My Cookie Factory - Black Sesame Cookie with Gooey Sesame Center and Crispy Edges. Served warm. (V)
• Oyster Bar by Aptus - Torched Salmon Sashimi with Soy, Mirin and Sake Glaze. 
• Simply Spanish - Chorizo and Prawn Dumpling with Shiitake Mushroom, Chestnut, Sesame, Bonito Flakes and Vinegar Dipping Sauce.
• Smithburg - Eggplant Katsu Curry: Panko Crumbed Eggplant, Kastu Curry Sauce, Japanese Mayo, Togarashi Seasoning, Pickled Cabbage. (V)
• Tea Drop - Matcha White Chocolate Coated Strawberry with Choice of Drink: Iced Matcha or Iced Hojicha with choice of flavours, Matcha Latte or Hojicha Latte, Cold Brew Genmaicha. (V)
• UGO Burrata Bar - Burrata Hiyayakko: Green Onion, Bonito Flakes, Ginger, Soy Sauce Dressing and 30g Burrata, served with a side of Edamame. (V)

The Experience Menu: 

• Osara SO:ME Space - Osara represents the cultural and lifestyle aspects of Japan through thoughtfully curated homewares. On your journey through the Market, pick up your booklet from Osara introducing you to the traditions of Japanese tea ceremony, flower arrangement and incense appreciation, including a gift voucher to the store.
• Tomi Art SO:ME Space - Tomi Art is Melbourne made and designed brand with the product concept of Japanese traditional art into contemporary wearable art. The designer, Satomi blends a flair for modern design concepts with a deep connection to the aesthetics of the traditional Japanese art and culture of her heritage. Stop by and visit stall owner, Satomi as she introduces you to the intricacies of the kimono material which is used in her bags and accessories, all sourced from Japan. 

Flavours of Japan Discovery Bag

Take a little extra slice of Japan home with you by adding a Flavours of Japan Discovery Bag to your experience!

The Discovery Bag is available for $50 and is packed with beautiful, authentic treasures that will extend your Flavours of Japan experience beyond the Market.

You'll receive your Discovery Bag upon check-in at the Market, then collect your goodies from participating traders along your journey. 

For more information on what's included in the Japan Discovery Bag, click here. 

To add a Discovery Bag to your order, please select the bundle ticket option on the bookings page.

Ticket Price

Tickets are $79 per person and includes event map, stamp card, Market bag, all dishes and samples from our participating food traders, and immersive experiences from our general merchandise traders.

Dates and Times: 

Two sessions will be available on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 

• Wednesday 4 June, 11am and 1pm
• Friday 6 June, 11am and 1pm
• Saturday 7 June, 11am and 1pm
• Wednesday 11 June, 11am and 1pm
• Friday 13 June, 11am and 1pm
• Saturday 14 June, 11am and 1pm

Location: 

Begin your journey by stopping in at the Market Office (located in the Centre Aisle) to collect your bag. 

Click here to view our FAQ's.

To purchase your ticket, click here.