Otsumami

‘Small dishes to be eaten with beer’ - the translation of the word ‘otsumami’ explains the style of the menu at this intimate Northcote eatery. Dishes are perfect for sharing between two; start with a colourful plate of sashimi, then perhaps street-food inspired okonomiyaki (savoury vegetable pancake) or ebi shinjo - moreish prawn, tofu and water chestnut dumplings. A nasu dengaku is a superior example of this homely favourite - hunks of eggplant, deep-fried until silky soft, with miso sauce. Dessert could be salty-sweet black sesame ice-cream. If you’re comfortable sitting cross-legged, book a tatami-mat table for an authentic dining experience.