From the moment you step inside, you know you're in for a treat. The welcoming staff immediately escort you into the dining area—which I'd describe as a captivating culinary theatre—where every seat offers an intimate view of the chef's artistry. The interior is deliberately Japanese minimalist and elegantly decorated, ensuring the focus remains solely on the food and the preparation process. As expected for the price point, the produce is impeccably sourced and of the highest quality. We indulged in the full Omakase course, adding two exquisite à la carte items: the Gold Leaf Maguro Maki and the Lobster Tempura. We thoroughly enjoyed nearly every piece and dish. While some reviews suggest the Omakase course isn't filling, we left the evening feeling perfectly satisfied and very full. What truly elevates this restaurant is the magnificent service. Our server was nothing short of brilliant. My glass of water was never allowed to be half-empty; the waitress was so attentive that she would quietly replenish it after every sip. It's this level of unerring, preemptive care that defines a truly exceptional Japanese dining experience.

Minamishima is an extraordinary dining experience — truly one of the finest Japanese restaurants I have ever visited. From the moment you step inside, you are welcomed into an atmosphere of elegance, calm, and precision. Every detail, from the warm lighting to the impeccable service, reflects the restaurant’s dedication to perfection.” The omakase experience at Minamishima is nothing short of exceptional. Each course is crafted with incredible skill, showcasing the freshest ingredients and masterful technique. The flavours are delicate, balanced, and unforgettable. Every bite feels like a work of art — beautifully presented and bursting with refined taste. The chefs are true professionals who put passion into every dish. Their explanations of each course add an educational and personal touch to the meal. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and gracious, making you feel valued and welcomed throughout the evening.

Simply the best Japanese in Melbourne. The food is very high quality, pure taste and championing the ingredients. One of the specials for the night was fugu, which was a rare offering: fugu sashimi with chilli radish was a tantalising combination; the chilli added that zing to remind you how exquisite the fish is! The shabu wagyu was to die for. The engawa was soft and delightfully springy. Service was superb!

Had the chance to try their omakase recently and it was such a memorable experience! 🍣✨ Every dish was beautifully prepared and thoughtfully presented - each course felt like a journey of flavours 😋 The service was excellent, and the attention to detail along with the explanation of each dish really added to the experience 😊 It is a great spot for a special night out. The price is reasonable for the quality and creativity offered. Definitely recommend if you are looking to treat yourself to an authentic Japanese omakase in Melbourne 😋

Minamishima is truly a standout omakase experience in Melbourne. The interior feels warm and intimate while the sleek, modern exterior sets the tone for a special night. The staff are incredibly attentive—they notice even the smallest details, which makes the service feel personal and thoughtful. I’ve been lucky enough to try six different omakase restaurants this winter, and Minamishima has earned a spot in my top 5. The seasonal ingredients, creativity, and flawless execution make every dish worth savoring and every cent well spent. If you love sushi or omakase, this is one of those restaurants you have to try at least once. Highly recommend!