Where to eat in Knox: Oushou Japanese Restaurant

Located on the ground level of Westfield Knox, Oushou is a sleek, two-level modern-Japanese eatery with a diverse à la carte menu, one of five locations across Melbourne.

True to its name, meaning “craftsman,” the restaurant offers a selection of traditional sashimi alongside contemporary plates like yuzu salmon and duck breast with blueberry balsamic sauce. In true Izakaya style, a mix of hot and cold dishes is a must.

Whether you seek an authentic seafood experience, need somewhere to take the family, or just want a hearty bowl of udon, Oushou has something for everyone.

Here are five dishes you should try at Oushou:

Choya Umeshu

Not exactly a dish, but a welcome addition to the dining experience, a glass of plum wine with plenty of ice never goes amiss. Its sweet and slightly tart flavour compliments lighter fare like sashimi or side greens. Enjoy it as an aperitif or with appetisers, especially as the weather warms. For a palate cleanser, consider one of Oushou’s sake offerings.

Oushou Tasting Menu ($54)

This jubako box, filled with nine different highlights from Oushou, includes sushi, sashimi, and appetisers. It makes for an eventful first course of the tasting menu (yes, there’s more). The savoury quality of the seared salmon nigiri and agedashi tofu balances well with the fresh tuna, salmon, and kingfish tataki. For the second course, choose from tempura, eye fillet steak or salmon saikyoyaki. 

Miso Hotate ($9.80)

These umami-bomb baked scallops were the standout dish of the meal. Served in a decadent, creamy miso sauce, you’ll be done in under a minute.

Tempura ($28)

Great tempura meets three essential criteria: a light, crispy fry, seasonal ingredients, and a harmonious salty-sweet tentsuyu sauce. What we received was just that—fresh pumpkin, zucchini, button mushrooms, asparagus, and juicy ebi tempura.

Pork Tonkatsu ($29)

To cap off the meal, few things rival a generous serving of breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet. Paired with a glossy tonkatsu sauce that elevates the rich meat, you’ll leave Oushou feeling fully satiated.

Oushou Japanese Restaurant is located at Shop 2217/425 Burwood Hwy, Wantirna South VIC 3152. 

Image credit: Nanda Soe