Flames of Flavour: Best Teppanyaki at Crown Melbourne

Teppanyaki, a culinary Japanese art form that incorporates entertainment value with exquisite grilled dishes, has become a favourite amongst Australians seeking a fun dining experience. 

At Crown Melbourne, two renowned restaurants, Nobu and Koko, bring forth this interactive cooking style to new heights. These establishments showcase their commitment to authentic and immersive Japanese cuisine by exploring the captivating tradition of private teppanyaki.

The long history of Teppanyaki

The history of teppanyaki dates back to post-World War II Japan, with its origins often attributed to the restaurant chain Misono in Kobe, which first introduced the style in 1945. Originally, it was created as a way to showcase Western-style dishes prepared with Japanese culinary techniques, aimed primarily at American soldiers stationed in Japan. 

Over time, teppanyaki restaurants evolved, introducing more traditional Japanese ingredients and flavours while retaining its Western influences. The interactive and entertaining nature of teppanyaki cooking helped it gain popularity both in the country and internationally. By the 1960s, it had made its way to the United States and other countries, where it became synonymous with Japanese steakhouse dining. 

Today, teppanyaki remains a beloved experience worldwide, celebrated for its delicious food and the engaging spectacle of its preparation.

WHAT IS TEPPANYAKI?

Derived from the Japanese words ‘teppan’ (iron plate) and ‘yaki’ (grilled or pan-fried), the style translates exactly to cooking ingredients on a hot iron plate. This method allows chefs to prepare meals right in front of guests, creating an engaging and interactive dining experience. 

Teppanyaki chefs are known for their skills and showmanship, often performing impressive knife tricks, tossing food into the air, and creating flaming volcanoes of certain ingredients, all while preparing delicious dishes.

WHAT IS TEPPANYAKI FOOD?

Because of its high-heat cooking method, chefs can prepare a variety of ingredients, including meats, seafood, and vegetables. It is often characterised by its use of quality, fresh produce and the skilled, theatrical, techniques of the chefs as they interact with your food before serving. It may just be the only time when it is okay to play with your food. 

Common dishes include grilled steak, prawns, scallops, chicken, and vegetables, seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and other traditional Japanese spices. 

However, the appeal of Melbourne teppanyaki in Melbourne goes beyond the taste of the food. The overall theatre is a feast for all senses – the sizzle of ingredients on the hot plate, the aroma of fresh, premium ingredients, the sight of expert chefs performing food acrobatics, and the communal atmosphere of sharing a meal with others around the grill. It encourages interaction and engagement, making it perfect for groups and special occasions.

Nobu Teppanyaki

A name synonymous with class and excellent gastronomy, Nobu has integrated teppanyaki into its menu to cover all important areas of Japanese dining. Although a smaller selection than Koko’s, Nobu Melbourne’s offerings have been created to highlight the restaurant’s signature blend of traditional Japanese flavours and Peruvian influences.

One of the standouts is the Black Opal Bone-in Ribeye with Truffle Butter Sauce cooked to perfection on the teppan grill. Seared with precision, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience, and accompanied by Nobu Melbourne’s famous truffle butter sauce, this dish exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to excellence. Another honourable mention; the Glacier 51 Toothfish with dry miso and spicy black bean – one that will keep you wanting more with every bite.

Koko Teppanyaki 

Koko, another jewel in Crown Melbourne’s culinary crown, is renowned for its authentic Japanese cuisine and relaxed ambience. The teppanyaki experience at Koko is immersive as it is delicious. It is the finest of Japanese dining with a modern approach.

The restaurant’s teppanyaki menu boasts many dishes that cater to diverse tastes. One of the highlights is the Mayura Wagyu “Gold series” Striploin Steak sprinkled with truffle salt and includes sweet potato fried rice with miso soup. 

If claypot is more your style, the Dobin Mushi is a fantastic choice with prawn, chicken, mushroom, and ginkgo nut, brimming with rich seafood broth. 

How about an all-rounder seafood option? Opt for the NZ Scampi and Baby Abalone marinated in yuzu butter. 

Teppanyaki is here to stay

Both Nobu and Koko excel in pushing the line between innovation and authenticity making them two of the best teppanyakis in Melbourne. The style and method allow the chefs at these restaurants to present their dedicated skills to guests while having fun with their creations. 

Experiencing teppanyaki at any of these two establishments at Crown would be an incredible journey through Japanese dining artistry that adds a touch of live cooking thrill. Either way, the experience itself promises to be both delectable and entertaining. 

The next time you are booking a table, remember to give teppanyaki a go and immerse yourself in the flames of flavour.