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Restaurant

Mr Tanuki

319a Doncaster Rd Service Rd, Balwyn North VIC 3104, Australia

Recommended by 36 people

Updated

Find Mr Tanuki

319a Doncaster Rd Service Rd, Balwyn North VIC 3104, Australia

Directions ↗
+61 3 9857 6556
HoursMonday: Closed Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About Mr Tanuki

Mr Tanuki serves balanced Japanese lunch sets and specialty drinks in a relaxed Balwyn North cafe setting. Regulars gravitate toward the teishoku-style specials—anchored by grilled mackerel, fresh sides, and warm rice. The room balances indoor tables with airy, spaced-out garden seating that rarely feels crammed. To drink, order a dirty almond hojicha or a flat white, then finish with a slice of house-made cake that keeps the sugar dialed down.

  • Structured Lunch Sets: Curated specials featuring balanced traditional combinations like grilled mackerel.
  • Low-Sugar House Cakes: In-house bakes crafted with a light touch and subtle sweetness.
  • Specialty Sips: Espresso classics served alongside drinks like dirty almond hojicha.
RestaurantRestaurant

What's On at Mr Tanuki

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Dine at Mr Tanuki

Discover why diners visit Mr Tanuki for authentic set lunches, house-made treats, and a calm cafe vibe.

  • Generous, Well-Balanced Lunch Sets

    Traditional Japanese lunch sets deliver a balanced variety of dishes with well-portioned, fresh components.

    Would recommend the lunch sets, as they give you the best of what the place offers and a generous amount of food

    Jack Donegan

  • Delicate, Not Sugar-Loaded Cakes

    House-made bakery selections focus on delicate, authentic Japanese flavor profiles rather than overwhelming sweetness.

    Try out their cakes - delicious and not sugar loaded.

    Shena

  • Nourishing and Subtle Japanese Flavors

    Dishes reflect traditional seasoning and balance, offering guests deep satisfaction through comforting flavors.

    Flavours are subtle and tasty, and it was a wonderful experience.

    Jack Donegan

  • Satisfying Set Specials That Keep You Returning

    Each rotating set special captures the comforting, authentic taste of Japan that invites regular return visits.

    My favourite: all the set specials . I try one each visit.

    Shena

  • Spacious and Relaxed Atmosphere

    Spaced-out indoor and outdoor dining spaces provide a calm, uncrowded environment to unwind.

    Liked how the outdoor seating was spaced out and not feel very crowded.

    Rosanna Chor

  • Attentive and Efficient Table Care

    Attentive service and fast delivery ensure an effortless, welcoming Japanese cafe experience.

    Staff were nice and attentive. The services was very fast which was also another plus.

    Rosanna Chor

Before you head over

Helpful tips on timing, reservations, and weekend surcharges for your visit

  • Arrive Early for Full Menu Choice

    Popular lunch sets and specials sell out quickly, with multiple menu items running out by early afternoon, so aim to arrive earlier in the lunch service.

  • Reserve Ahead on Weekends

    The dining room fills up fast, particularly on Saturdays and Sundays; securing a table ahead of time helps prevent long waits or missing out.

  • Note Weekend Surcharges

    Weekend dining incurs an extra 10% to 15% weekend surcharge plus card payment processing fees, making weekday visits a lighter option on the bill.

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