Tofu in Australia and Japan is completely different — and if you’ve experienced both, you’ll understand why finding authentic Japanese tofu in Melbourne is so special.
That’s exactly why I wanted to visit Tofu Shoten. Founded by Sava Goto, the shop was created because she couldn’t find tofu like the kind she grew up eating in Japan. And honestly — I totally get it.
First Impressions: Expect a Queue
When I arrived, there was already a queue — always a good sign when searching for the best tofu in Melbourne.
The space is very small, with no seating. However, there’s a tiny park nearby with chairs, which ended up being the perfect place to sit and enjoy everything.
A queue outside Tofu Shoten — a clear sign of some of the best Japanese tofu in Melbourne.
What to Eat at Tofu Shoten Melbourne
Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Sauce
The tofu nuggets were incredibly juicy, clearly made from fresh, high-quality tofu.
- Slightly sweet coating
- Cajun-style seasoning with a hint of fennel
- Paired with smoked soy and kumquat vegan mayo
Even though I’m not a big fan of fennel, the flavour still worked overall. The freshness of the tofu really stood out. There were two other sauces to choose from, other than the kumquat vegan mayo:
- Maple and Tarragon Mustard
- Black Bean and Chilli Mayo
Crispy tofu nuggets with smoked soy and kumquat vegan mayo ($12) — fresh, juicy, and full of flavour.
Okara Biscuit Sandwich (Seasonal Flavours)
One of the most unique things to try in Melbourne is the okara biscuit sandwich.
Flavours change regularly — during my visit, there were three options,
- Apricot, Kinako, Lemon Verbena & Earl Grey
- Strawberry Pandan & Vanilla
- Passionfruit, Coconut & Lime
I chose the strawberry and apricot flavours. The texture of the okara biscuit was amazing — slightly crumbly but rich and satisfying. I brought my biscuits back to the hotel where I was staying, but unfortunately, due to the summer weather, the beautifully filled biscuits melted. Thankfully, the taste was still top-notch!
Okara biscuit sandwich with apricot and strawberry filling ($5.50) — a unique Japanese dessert made from soybean pulp.
What is okara?
Okara is soybean pulp, a by-product of tofu and soy milk. It’s nutritious, sustainable, and rarely used this well in Australia.
Tofu Donuts (Kinako & Black Sesame)
If you’re looking for unique Japanese desserts in Melbourne, these are a must-try. They were not overly sweet, slightly salty for balance, and the texture was fluffy yet moist. Both the kinako and black sesame flavours were delicious, with a subtle depth you don’t usually get in donuts.
Fluffy tofu donuts in kinako and black sesame ($5.50) — lightly sweet with a perfectly balanced flavour.
Tofu & Potato Fritter (Must-Try)
This was my favourite dish of the day. Even after cooling down, it was still crispy on the outside, soft and flavourful on the inside. If you visit Tofu Shoten, this is a must-order.
Golden tofu and potato fritter ($6.50) — crispy outside, soft inside, and a must-try at Tofu Shoten.
More Than Just Tofu: A Soy Lover’s Dream
Tofu Shoten is more than just a tofu shop — it’s a showcase of what soy-based food can be.
You’ll find:
- Fresh handmade tofu
- Okara snacks and desserts
- Soy-based drinks
- Traditional Japanese items like ganmodoki
I’ve never seen ganmodoki in Sydney, which makes this place even more special.
Tofu Shoten’s tofu-based snacks and beverages
Final Thoughts: Best Japanese Tofu in Melbourne?
After trying everything, one thing stood out — the quality. Everything was fresh, thoughtfully made, and full of flavour.
Later, I enjoyed the donuts and okara biscuits back at my hotel with matcha. Even though the cream had melted a bit in the heat, the flavours still held up beautifully — especially the sweet and slightly tangy apricot filling.
If you’re searching for:
- authentic Japanese tofu in Melbourne
- unique Japanese desserts
- high-quality soy-based food
This place is absolutely worth visiting.
A variety of handmade tofu, okara snacks, and soy-based treats at Tofu Shoten.
Tofu Shoten Melbourne: Location & Details
Tofu Shoten
11 Hope Street, Brunswick
Hours:
Thu & Fri 12pm–4pm
Sat 9am–4pm
https://tofushoten.square.site
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