Tombo Den: Chris Lucas Brings a Taste of Tokyo to Chapel Street

Chapel Street’s Windsor precinct is about to welcome a new hotspot, Tombo Den, a Japanese-inspired restaurant and sake bar by the renowned restaurateur Chris Lucas. Opening its doors in September 2024, this moody two-storey venue aims to transport diners straight to the heart of Tokyo’s vibrant late-night scene, right here in Melbourne.

A Nod to Tokyo’s Streets

Tombo Den, nestled next to Lucas’s Singaporean-inspired Hawker Hall, draws inspiration from the narrow, bustling izakayas that define Tokyo’s urban labyrinth. The restaurant’s design channels a brutalist energy with a moody, evocative aesthetic, capturing the essence of Japanese street food culture with a distinct Melbourne twist.

Lucas, known for his experiential dining ventures, has a deep-rooted passion for Japanese culture, having lived in Tokyo during the 90s. Tombo Den is a tribute to his favourite dining experiences from that time, offering a menu that blends Tokyo’s street food vibes with Windsor’s electric energy.

A Stellar Lineup of Talent

At the helm of Tombo Den’s kitchen is celebrated chef Dan Chan, whose impressive resume includes stints at the Michelin-starred Yardbird in Hong Kong and Melbourne’s Supernormal. Chan’s menu for Tombo Den features small plates that reflect the simplicity and depth of Tokyo’s dining culture. The focus is on approachable dishes like a raw bar selection that showcases premium Australian seafood, alongside a pared-back sushi offering reminiscent of its street food origins.

Key highlights include a rotating selection of nigiri and handrolls, guided by the daily market fish, prepared by sushi masters Toaki Kyo and Carlos Lopez. Their craftsmanship ensures that each dish is not just a meal but a creative exploration of seasonal ingredients.

Sake and Beyond

Tombo Den’s beverage program, curated by Tokyo-born Master Sommelier Yuki Hirose, offers an eclectic mix of sakes, wines, and cocktails designed to complement the food. Hirose’s curation is precise yet inviting, encouraging diners to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The sake selection, a particular passion of Hirose’s, is a standout, featuring imports handpicked from his recent trip to Japan.

A Dining Experience Like No Other

Beyond the sushi counter, Tombo Den offers private dining spaces complete with karaoke and a unique ‘design your own cocktail’ experience, making it more than just a place to eat. It’s a destination for an immersive night out.

With Lucas’s track record for creating iconic Melbourne dining spots like Chin Chin and Kisumé, Tombo Den is set to become another landmark on the city’s food scene. Don’t miss the chance to experience this slice of Tokyo in the heart of Windsor when it opens in early September.