Cafe Carpenter – Malvern East – offers Japanese and Korean menus with takoyaki and fried chicken

Café Carpenter in Malvern East is a hidden gem tucked away on the bustling Waverley Road. Navigating the parking situation can be a bit tricky due to the busy location, but once inside, you’re in for a treat.

The menu offers a delightful fusion of Japanese and Korean flavours, catering to diverse palates. From the Japanese selection, the Takoyaki and Ebiyaki stole the show, with their perfectly balanced textures and flavours. The Katsu Pork, Fried Chicken, and Japanese Curry were equally enticing options.

The Korean offerings were equally impressive, featuring classics like Kimchi Pancake, Bibimbap, and LA Galbi. Each dish showcased authentic flavours and quality ingredients.

The intimate interior exudes a cozy atmosphere, with a small team of three staff ensuring attentive service. Reservations are highly recommended, and the only way to secure your spot is by making a phone call.

A unique touch to the experience is the small store at the back, offering a selection of Japanese and Korean snacks—a perfect opportunity to take a piece of the experience home with you.

During our visit, we indulged in the Half and Half Tako and Ebimayo Yaki for $15, a delightful combination of flavours and textures. The Chicken Tebaski (4 pieces) with sweet soy sauce at $14 was a standout, featuring succulent, slightly battered wings with a punchy sauce.

Unfortunately, our only letdown was the Japanese Curry Udon at $20. While the curry flavour was present, the runny soup left us desiring a bit more depth and complexity.

A unique experience with a choice of either Japanese or Korean cuisine

One small hiccup in our experience was feeling rushed, which prevented us from fully enjoying our seats. Given the small size of the venue, it’s advisable to be mindful that you might not be able to stay long.

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