Viral Onigiri Master Taro Kiso Joins Ishizuka for an Exclusive Kaiseki Experience

Taro Kiso (@onigiritaro_jp) isn’t just any chef—he’s the viral onigiri master with 116k Instagram followers, known for transforming the humble rice ball into a work of art. Now, he’s bringing his signature craft to Melbourne for a two-night-only collaboration at Ishizuka, teaming up with Executive Chef Katsuji Yoshino for an event that’s set to be the ultimate meeting of tradition and innovation.—it’s an underground temple to precision, where Japanese craftsmanship meets the finest local produce. This April, the already elite experience is getting an extra dose of mastery as onigiri sensation Chef Taro Kiso (@onigiritaro_jp) steps into the kitchen for a two-night-only collaboration with Executive Chef Katsuji Yoshino.

If you haven’t yet been entranced by Kiso’s hypnotic rice-shaping skills, here’s the rundown: with 116k Instagram followers and a reputation that spans Tokyo to New York, he’s turned the humble onigiri into an art form. His work has captivated audiences worldwide, earning him collaborations with top chefs and celebrity admirers—including Japanese icon Takuya Kimura. Now, he’s bringing his signature technique to Ishizuka for an exclusive, finely tuned tasting menu that goes far beyond your average rice ball.

One Weekend. One Kaiseki Journey. One Extraordinary Onigiri.

Mark your calendar for Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th April—these are the only two nights you’ll have to witness Kiso’s craft in action, seamlessly paired with Ishizuka’s renowned kaiseki dining. The experience will feature an eight-course menu, with one course dedicated to Kiso’s onigiri—a masterful balance of technique, texture, and taste—while the remaining courses reflect Chef Yoshino’s take on modern kaiseki, highlighting peak-season Australian ingredients through a lens of Japanese tradition.

The Onigiri Phenomenon

Kiso’s rise to fame is no accident. Having trained in both Japanese and French cuisine, he spent years refining his skills in Kyoto before making waves globally. His methodical approach to hand-moulding rice has earned millions of views, and his pop-ups have been met with sold-out crowds from Paris to Los Angeles. Now, Melbourne diners have the rare chance to see what all the fuss is about—without boarding a flight.

“Ishizuka is all about honouring the precision and refinement of Japanese cuisine,” says founder Melanie Zhang. “Taro Kiso brings a level of artistry to onigiri that people don’t often get to experience. This collaboration is something truly special.”

Ishizuka has long been regarded as one of the city’s most exclusive dining spots, with its intimate 16-seat setting and two chef hats from the 2025 Good Food Guide. But this event is next level—a moment where two masters of craft come together to create something ephemeral, elegant, and entirely unforgettable.

Priced at $470 per person, with optional beverage pairings available, this dining experience is as rare as the perfect grain of rice. Seats are extremely limited, and demand is expected to be high. If you want in, act fast.

Bookings essential. Ishizuka, Melbourne CBD.