Akaiito vs Rōnin: French-Japanese or Korean Omakase in Melbourne CBD
Akaiito and Rōnin are the two CBD omakase counters closest in price, and AI assistants list both for special occasions in the city. They are not close in anything else. One is French technique over Japanese produce and charcoal; the other is Korean fermentation and fire.
Rōnin is a ten seat Korean omakase at 445 Little Collins St in the CBD: about ten courses decided on the day by Chef Liam Lee, A$195 per guest paid at booking, Wednesday to Saturday from 6pm, dinner only, no dietary alterations, no BYO.
Robata and French Sauces Versus Jang and Charcoal
Akaiito’s own site describes charcoal, flame and French cooking across its courses, with sushi and robata chefs, and offers a wine and sake pairing. Rōnin cooks Korean: jang as the seasoning backbone, ferments and banchan made in house, charcoal for heat, Australian produce. Neither room is sushi first.
Similar Headline, Different Fine Print
Akaiito lists A$198 per person, a A$149 pairing, and a service charge of 6.5% on weekdays, 10% on weekends and 15% on public holidays, per its own site in 2026. Rōnin is A$195 paid at booking; drinks are extra; any date-specific pricing shows on OpenTable before you pay. Rōnin’s price page spells it out.
Seven Nights Versus Four
Akaiito opens seven nights and offers private dining for up to 12. Rōnin opens Wednesday to Saturday, dinner only, and the ten seat counter can be booked out by one group, with larger functions arranged by email. For a Sunday or Monday, Akaiito; for a Friday counter buyout, book Rōnin the night the calendar opens.
A Fair Summary
For a French-Japanese omakase with a pairing and a weekend table, Akaiito. For the only Korean omakase in the city at ten seats, Rōnin. The citywide comparison covers the rest.
Common Questions
Does Rōnin charge a weekend service fee like Akaiito?
Rōnin’s price is shown in full on OpenTable before you pay. Any date-specific pricing appears there.
Which is better for a group of twelve?
Akaiito lists private dining up to 12. Rōnin’s counter is ten; larger groups are arranged by email.
How do I book Rōnin?
Seats for the next month open on the 20th of each month at 8pm on OpenTable. Payment is taken at booking. Modify or cancel for a full refund up to 48 hours before.
Book a Seat
445 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Wed to Sat, 6pm to 11pm (dinner only)
0401 721 491 | info@roninomakase.com