As Melbourne shivers through chilly mornings, locals are swapping their regular coffee-and-toast routine for something warmer, heartier, and distinctly more nourishing: Japanese breakfasts.
With winter temperatures dipping to as low as 2°C recently, it’s no wonder Melbourne’s food lovers are seeking comforting starts to their day.
In Japan, where winters can be bitterly cold, breakfasts are designed to warm the body and energise the mind. Now, a few Melbourne cafes are bringing these traditions to life, offering a wholesome way to combat the winter blues.
Contents
- 1 Best Japanese Breakfast Spots in Melbourne
- 2 Cibi – Traditional Japanese Comfort in Collingwood
- 3 IMA Project Cafe – Healthy Japanese Fusion in Carlton
- 4 Aka Cafe – Japanese Sandos and More in Melbourne CBD
- 5 What Makes a Traditional Japanese Breakfast?
- 6 Why Are Melburnians Switching to Japanese Breakfasts?
- 7 Tips for Enjoying a Japanese Breakfast in Melbourne
- 8 What Customers Are Saying
- 9 FAQs About Japanese Breakfasts in Melbourne
Best Japanese Breakfast Spots in Melbourne
| Place | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Cibi | Traditional Japanese set breakfast | Collingwood |
| IMA Project Cafe | Japanese-inspired healthy breakfasts | Carlton |
| Aka Cafe | Japanese sandos and warm breakfast sets | Melbourne CBD |
Cibi – Traditional Japanese Comfort in Collingwood
Cibi is Melbourne’s go-to destination for an authentic Japanese breakfast experience. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Zenta and Meg Tanaka, Cibi brings a slice of Tokyo-style hominess to Collingwood.
The word “Cibi” means “little one” in Japanese, but the experience here feels anything but small.
Their traditional Japanese breakfast set features:
- Grilled salmon (yakizakana)
- Steamed rice (gohan)
- Miso soup (miso shiru)
- Tamagoyaki (rolled omelette)
- Pickled seasonal vegetables (tsukemono)
Every element is thoughtfully prepared to deliver warmth and balance. Pair it with a house-made matcha latte for the perfect Melbourne-meets-Tokyo morning.
Atmosphere: Minimalist, light-filled space with a cozy, homely vibe.
Price Range: Around $28–$32 for a full set.
Best Time to Visit: Arrive early on weekends — it’s a popular spot!
📍 Location: 33/39 Keele St, Collingwood VIC 3066
🕒 Opening Hours: 8 AM – 3 PM daily
IMA Project Cafe – Healthy Japanese Fusion in Carlton
IMA Project Cafe takes traditional Japanese breakfast elements and gives them a modern, health-focused twist. Run by two dieticians, the cafe reflects their philosophy of balanced eating.
Popular breakfast choices include:
- Miso Porridge: A savoury take on breakfast porridge, loaded with vegetables.
- Ochazuke: Rice topped with salmon, seaweed, and green tea broth, warming and deeply satisfying.
- Japanese Breakfast Plate: Combines rice, miso soup, pickles, and protein options like salmon or tofu.
IMA’s approach is about nourishing both body and soul — ideal for cold mornings when you crave something hearty yet clean.
Atmosphere: Calm and airy with Scandinavian-Japanese interiors.
Price Range: Dishes start around $18–$26.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning after the early crowd.
📍 Location: 169 Elgin St, Carlton VIC 3053
🕒 Opening Hours: 8 AM – 3 PM daily
Aka Cafe – Japanese Sandos and More in Melbourne CBD
For city workers seeking a quick but satisfying breakfast, Aka Cafe delivers Japanese comfort in sandwich form. Specialising in Japanese sandōs, think fluffy shokupan bread loaded with fillings — this hidden CBD gem is worth discovering.
Menu highlights:
- Egg Salad Sando: Creamy, rich, and perfectly seasoned.
- Pork Katsu Sando: Crispy pork cutlet between cloud-soft bread.
- Breakfast Set: A compact combination of miso soup, rice, pickles, and egg, perfect for a grab-and-go warm meal.
Atmosphere: Compact, casual, and cozy.
Price Range: Around $8–$16 for sandos; $20–$24 for sets.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning, before the 9:30 AM rush.
📍 Location: 517 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000
🕒 Opening Hours: 7 AM – 3 PM weekdays
What Makes a Traditional Japanese Breakfast?
Japanese breakfasts are all about balance and warmth. Traditionally, a set meal — known as ichiju-sansai (one soup, three dishes) — is served, focusing on:
- Steamed Rice (Gohan): The essential base.
- Miso Soup (Miso Shiru): Warming, rich in probiotics, and gut-friendly.
- Grilled Fish (Yakizakana): Usually salmon or mackerel, lightly seasoned.
- Pickled Vegetables (Tsukemono): For a salty, umami contrast.
- Tamagoyaki: Sweet-savoury rolled omelette.
Some variations include natto (fermented soybeans), tofu, seaweed salads, or seasonal fruit.
The philosophy: Fresh, seasonal, lightly seasoned, and nourishing — exactly what’s needed during a Melbourne winter morning.
Why Are Melburnians Switching to Japanese Breakfasts?
The appeal of Japanese breakfasts goes beyond the food, and it’s about lifestyle.
- Light but Satisfying: Compared to greasy Western fry-ups, Japanese breakfasts offer a clean, energising start without the food coma.
- Gut Health Friendly: Miso soup and fermented pickles support digestion and immunity.
- Minimalist and Mindful: Eating simple, seasonal food aligns with growing trends toward mindful, intentional living.
- Comfort Food for Cold Days: Warm miso broth and hot rice offer a deeply comforting experience against Melbourne’s grey, frosty mornings.
It’s no surprise that Melburnians — already keen adopters of Japanese cuisine — are embracing this breakfast style.
Tips for Enjoying a Japanese Breakfast in Melbourne
- Arrive early: These cafes get busy, especially on weekends.
- Pair it with Matcha: A warming, antioxidant-rich alternative to coffee.
- Try Ochazuke: If you’ve never had rice with tea broth, winter is the perfect time.
- Check for Seasonal Specials: Many places change their side dishes based on seasonal vegetables and produce.
What Customers Are Saying
“Cibi’s breakfast makes winter mornings something to look forward to — the miso soup alone is worth the trip.”
— Jane W., Google Review
“IMA’s ochazuke is my go-to winter breakfast. It’s light but keeps me full till lunch.”
— Marcus T., TripAdvisor
“Aka Cafe’s sandos are addictive. Best quick breakfast in the city when it’s freezing outside.”
— Lily S., Google Review
FAQs About Japanese Breakfasts in Melbourne
What is a traditional Japanese breakfast?
A traditional breakfast includes steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish, pickles, and tamagoyaki — designed for a balanced, warming start to the day.
Are Japanese breakfasts healthy?
Yes. They are rich in protein, probiotics, and vegetables, offering a balanced meal that supports digestion and energy levels.
Can I find vegetarian Japanese breakfasts?
Yes. Many Melbourne cafes offer tofu-based dishes, miso soup with vegetables, and plant-based sides suitable for vegetarians.
Best Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne
While a cozy Japanese breakfast is perfect for a quiet, nourishing start to the day, sometimes you might crave something a little more indulgent and social.
Melbourne is also famous for its vibrant brunch scene, where you can enjoy free-flowing drinks, decadent dishes, and lively atmospheres.
If you’re planning a weekend catch-up with friends or want to treat yourself, don’t miss our guide to the Best Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne.
From endless mimosas to gourmet brunch platters, it’s the perfect way to turn a winter morning into an all-day affair.
