Tucked away on Faraday Street in Carlton, Nijuusan brings a taste of Japan to Melbourne with its cosy atmosphere, late-night vibes, and a menu that perfectly balances comfort food and playful desserts. It’s the kind of spot that feels like a Tokyo backstreet café – colourful, quirky and brimming with Japanese pop culture charm.
If you’re after something warm and hearty, Nijuusan’s Japanese black curry is a must-try.
We ordered the Chicken Katsu Curry and the Shrimp Tempura Curry, and both were absolute winners. Crispy, golden coatings gave way to juicy, tender bites, while the curry sauce was rich, savoury, and packed with flavour.
The kids loved it just as much as we did – a perfect family-friendly meal.
To balance the richness of the curry, we sipped on freshly whisked matcha lattes. Smooth and earthy, they paired beautifully with the food.
For something a little different, the Bonito & Sweet Soy Shokupan was an unexpected delight – fluffy Japanese toast topped with bonito flakes and a sweet-savoury soy glaze.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause after the first bite – unusual, fun, and surprisingly addictive.
Of course, no visit to Nijuusan is complete without trying their kakigori (Japanese shaved ice). Towering bowls of fluffy, snow-like ice arrive at the table, generously flavoured and perfect for sharing. We couldn’t resist ordering two:
Edamame Kakigori – light, delicate, and topped with house-made edamame paste. Kurogoma (Black Sesame) Kakigori – nutty, rich, and balanced with black sesame ice cream and crunchy toppings.
Each spoonful melted instantly, leaving just a burst of flavour behind. It’s refreshing, playful, and unlike any dessert you’ll find elsewhere in Melbourne.
What makes Nijuusan stand out is its ability to transport you straight to Japan without leaving Melbourne. From the quirky décor to the authentic flavours, it’s a place that feels both fun and comforting – whether you’re here for a late-night dessert, a casual dinner, or a family outing.
📍 Nijuusan – Kakigori and Dessert
237 Faraday St, Carlton VIC 3053
🕙 Sun–Thu: 11am – 10.30pm | Fri & Sat: 11am – 11pm
💳 No Surcharge
Melbourne with Kidz (MWK) 
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