Flavour and Fortune Collide with Juni's Southeast Asian Feast
Melbourne’s food scene is ever-changing, but every so often, a new opening reminds us why this city is a dining powerhouse. Enter Juni, the latest venture from celebrated chef Michael Lambie. Nestled in the CBD on Exhibition Street, Juni serves up modern Southeast Asian-inspired dishes with the kind of flair that’s both confident and quietly inventive.
Juni opened late last year, marking Lambie’s return to the Melbourne restaurant world after a brief hiatus. This time, he’s teamed up with head chef Hendri Budiman, a talent who understands how to balance the intricate flavours of the region with a playful, modern edge.
Before you even step inside, Juni sets the tone with a spinning wheel of fortune at the entrance—a playful nod to the restaurant’s lucky dip menu and a promise of the fun, unexpected flavours that await. The space doesn't shout, but sings. Minimalist without being sterile, its design offering subtle nods to Asian culture. Bright red, soft green, and a splash of magenta come together to create an atmosphere that’s inviting but sleek. It feels like a place where big ideas come to life without unnecessary fuss. The focus, clearly, is on what arrives at the table.
Juni’s menu encourages sharing, but don’t mistake that for predictability. Each dish feels like it was created with a bit of cheek, a lot of care, and a genuine love for bold flavours. If you can't decide, go for the 'Lucky Dip' chef's selection where you can't go wrong.
Their Wagyu Beef Tartare on Betel Leaf, with nam prik pao, toasted rice, and lime got our tastebuds started with something unexpectedly fresh. The Hiramasa Kingfish with green jalapeño nam jim and yuzu—a dish that punches hard in the best way, topped with a whipped coconut cream to soften the blow.
We had the crispiest, juiciest Pork Belly Spring Rolls and a melt-in-mouth Jungle Curry Atlantic Salmon with fennel and dill with a crisp and refreshing Apple-slaw.
Then out came the Penang Curry Beef Short Rib with its rich and flavoursome sauce practically demanding to be mopped up with the accompanying roti.
The drinks menu is as considered as the food, with expertly crafted cocktails and a thoughtful wine list to round out the experience. From a pre-dinner aperitif to a lingering nightcap, there’s something to match every dish and mood.
Lambie’s vision and Budiman’s precision make Juni a place that feels both timeless and distinctly of the moment. It’s a playful reminder of how exciting Melbourne dining can be when passion and creativity meet in the kitchen.