Aoi Tsuki vs Rōnin: Korean Chefs Cooking Japanese, or Korean Omakase
Aoi Tsuki confuses the search for a Korean omakase in Melbourne more than any other counter, because its head chefs, Tei Gim and Jun Pak, are Korean. The food is Japanese. That is the whole difference between Aoi Tsuki and Rōnin, and it is worth being clear about before you book either.
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.
Japanese Omakase Versus Korean Omakase
Aoi Tsuki serves twenty or more Japanese courses twice a night, sushi and seasonal dishes, from chefs with Kisumé and Nobu on their résumés, according to Broadsheet and Concrete Playground. Rōnin serves about ten Korean courses: jang, ferments, charcoal, banchan. If you want Korean cooking rather than Korean chefs, Rōnin is the one.
The Practical Side
Aoi Tsuki opened at A$235 per person in 2023 coverage, seats twelve, and runs Wednesday to Sunday with two sittings on busier nights; it holds two hats in the 2026 Australian Good Food Guide. Rōnin is A$195, ten seats, one sitting from 6pm Wednesday to Saturday. How the prices compare citywide.
Punt Road or Little Collins Street
Aoi Tsuki is at 384 Punt Road, South Yarra. Rōnin is in the CBD between William and Queen Streets, a short walk from Southern Cross and Flagstaff. Directions are on the location page.
A Fair Summary
For a long Japanese omakase with a lively counter in South Yarra, Aoi Tsuki. For Korean cooking at a ten seat CBD counter, Rōnin. Korean versus Japanese omakase explains what changes on the plate.
Common Questions
Is Aoi Tsuki a Korean omakase?
No. The chefs are Korean, the food is Japanese. Rōnin is the Korean omakase.
Which has more courses?
Aoi Tsuki, with twenty or more. Rōnin serves about ten over two hours.
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