Inari Canberra Centre

Inari Canberra Centre brings a vibrant and contemporary Japanese dining experience to the heart of Canberra. Named after the Japanese god of rice, Inari showcases the finest locally sourced seafood, expertly crafted into sashimi, sushi, and signature Japanese dishes. From delicate nigiri to bold, modern creations, the menu celebrates Japan’s rich culinary heritage with a distinctive, innovative twist. The restaurant is an integral part of Tiger Lane, the lively dining precinct within the Canberra Centre, offering a grown-up wonderland of fun, frivolity, and fusion. Located at FG16 A/B/C, 148 Bunda St on the ground level between Bunda Street and Scotts Crossing, Inari invites locals and visitors alike to leave the everyday behind and step into an immersive space where tradition meets modernism.

As a celebrated Japanese Restaurant in Canberra, Inari stands out for its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and its artful presentation. The talented kitchen team creates a menu that balances traditional Japanese techniques with creative flair, delivering dishes that are both visually stunning and deeply satisfying. Whether you are stopping in for a pre-shopping lunch, planning a romantic date night, or hosting a celebratory dinner with family, the restaurant provides an atmospheric backdrop that is stylish without feeling stiff. The ambience is elevated yet approachable, with pretty plateware and cutlery that enhance every course, creating a space where children feel just as welcome as couples and groups of friends. Patrons consistently praise the great staff for adding those little extra special feels that make every visit memorable.

Our Menu Philosophy and Culinary Approach

The culinary team at Inari Canberra Centre is driven by a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions, combined with a passion for pushing boundaries. The menu is built on the foundation of fresh, locally sourced seafood and seasonal produce, ensuring every plate reflects the best available ingredients. The chefs expertly craft each dish to balance flavor, texture, and visual appeal, creating a dining experience that engages all the senses. The rotating nature of the menu means there is always something new to discover, with specials that highlight seasonal peaks and limited-time creations that keep regulars excited to return.

The kitchen’s philosophy centers on shareability, encouraging a communal dining style that mirrors the Japanese izakaya culture. Dishes are designed to be placed at the center of the table, inviting conversation and connection. From the delicate precision of sashimi to the bold, comforting flavors of hot small plates and larger grill items, the menu takes guests on a journey through Japan’s diverse regional flavors, reinterpreted through a modern Australian lens. This approach has earned Inari a strong reputation, with a 4.5-star rating from over 527 Google reviewers who frequently highlight the thoughtful curation and consistent quality of the food.

Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights

Inari’s menu is a thoughtful curation of classic and signature Japanese dishes designed to be shared and enjoyed. The kitchen emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in a dining experience that feels both luxurious and approachable. Popular items that consistently draw praise from Google Maps reviewers include the Assorted Sashimi and the Popcorn Shrimp, both noted for their flavor and presentation. The menu website and in-venue signage promote an Express Lunch option and a full à la carte menu, ensuring there is a perfect fit for a quick business meal or a leisurely multi-course dinner.

Small Plates and Shareable Cold Dishes

The small plates section of the menu is where Inari’s creativity truly shines. The Corn Ribs, often mentioned as a surprise highlight, are served with a sweet, buttery seasoning that makes them incredibly moreish. Another standout is the Miso Eggplant, cooked to perfection with a crispy exterior and a soft, umami-rich interior, garnished with thin, crispy sweet potato. Diners also appreciate the delicate balance of tempura items and the freshness of edamame, prepared simply to highlight the natural quality of the beans. These dishes are ideal for starting the meal, offering a range of textures and flavors that whet the appetite for larger courses.

Grill Selections and Larger Plates

For those seeking heartier options, the larger plates deliver satisfying depth and complexity. The Wagyu Suteki with Charred Broccolini is a consistent favourite, offering tender, premium beef paired with a range of house-made sauces. The dish features a sweetish, tangy soy sauce alongside a mysterious, herby, zingy, possibly smoky companion sauce that guests frequently rave about, often wishing for extra meat just to soak up every last drop. Other grill selections may include perfectly cooked steaks and seasonal vegetable accompaniments that showcase the kitchen’s skill with high-heat cooking techniques. These plates are substantial enough to form the centerpiece of a shared meal.

Desserts and Sweet Finishes

No meal at Inari is complete without exploring the dessert offerings, which blend Japanese influences with Western indulgence. The rotating specials menu occasionally features a massive, crispy Japanese Fried Ice Cream served with caramel, chocolate, and strawberry sauces, a fun and surprisingly large treat that is perfect for sharing. For a lighter finish, the Earl Grey Custard provides a creamy, subtle tea-flavored experience that is not too sweet, making it an ideal choice for those who are a bit full but still want a delicate dessert. Each sweet dish is plated with the same attention to detail as the savory courses, ensuring a beautiful end to the dining experience.

The Beverage Program: Cocktails, Sake, and More

Complementing the food menu is a carefully curated beverage program designed to enhance every dish. The bar at Inari crafts a selection of cocktails that balance classic techniques with Japanese ingredients and sensibilities. A well-received Mojito consistently appears in reviews as a refreshing choice, while other seasonal creations rotate to match the evolving menu. The sake list is thoughtfully assembled to pair with the range of sashimi, sushi, and grilled items, offering both familiar labels and lesser-known brews that invite exploration. Staff are knowledgeable and happy to guide guests through selections, whether they are sake novices or seasoned enthusiasts. A range of non-alcoholic options, including Japanese teas and specialty soft drinks, ensures every guest finds the perfect pairing.

Express Lunch: A Quick Culinary Escape

Understanding the needs of busy professionals, shoppers, and visitors to the Canberra Centre, Inari offers an Express Lunch menu on days when lunch service is available. This streamlined offering allows guests to enjoy the restaurant’s signature quality and flavors within a tighter timeframe, without compromising on the experience. Perfect for a midday break between meetings or a refueling stop during a shopping excursion, the Express Lunch features a curated selection of the most popular dishes, served efficiently by the attentive team. The lunch hours are 11:30am to 2:45pm on Thursdays and Fridays, and 11:30am to 3:15pm on Saturdays and Sundays, providing ample opportunity to enjoy a premium Japanese meal during the day.

Private Functions and Group Celebrations

Inari Canberra Centre provides an exceptional setting for private functions and group celebrations. The venue’s immersive and vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its location within the dynamic Tiger Lane precinct, makes it a sought-after destination for birthdays, corporate events, and special gatherings. The functions team works closely with hosts to tailor menus and beverage packages to suit the occasion, ensuring a seamless and memorable event. With dedicated spaces and a service team renowned for their warmth and attentiveness, Inari transforms any group dining experience into a curated celebration of Japanese cuisine and culture. Enquiries can be made via the restaurant’s website or by contacting the venue directly.

An Immersive Ambience and Design

Stepping into Inari is an immediate sensory shift that transports guests from the bustle of the Canberra Centre into a refined yet playful world. The interior design strikes a careful balance between the sophisticated cool of a contemporary Japanese izakaya and the energetic pulse of Tiger Lane. Stylish decor elements, mood-appropriate lighting, and carefully chosen plateware and cutlery contribute to a setting that feels special without being pretentious. Reviewers frequently comment on how the restaurant manages to feel nice enough for a date night yet relaxed enough that families with children don’t feel out of place. This inclusive atmosphere is a cornerstone of the Inari experience, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of diners and occasions.

Located in the Heart of Tiger Lane at Canberra Centre

Inari occupies a prime position within Tiger Lane, the celebrated dining and lifestyle precinct at the Canberra Centre on 148 Bunda Street. The ground-level location between Bunda Street and Scotts Crossing offers easy access for pedestrians, public transport users, and drivers alike. Being part of Canberra’s primary shopping and entertainment hub, the restaurant is surrounded by retail, cultural attractions, and city amenities, making it an ideal anchor for a day or evening out in the capital. The surrounding precinct buzzes with energy, and Inari’s presence adds a layer of culinary distinction that draws both intentional diners and spontaneous visitors exploring the center.

Our Commitment to Quality and Guest Experience

At Inari Canberra Centre, the guest experience extends far beyond the plate. The entire team, from the chefs in the open kitchen to the servers on the floor, is dedicated to creating moments of genuine hospitality. Feedback from 527 reviews consistently highlights the excellent service, with staff members like MJ and Oma receiving personal mentions for their exceptional care during family meals. This commitment to making every guest feel valued, whether they are first-time visitors or loyal regulars, is woven into the fabric of the restaurant. The combination of delicious food, pretty plating, a lovely atmosphere, and staff who go the extra mile ensures that Inari is not just a meal, but a destination experience.

Hours of Operation and Service Times

Inari Canberra Centre operates with distinct lunch and dinner service periods across the week, allowing the kitchen and team to reset and prepare for each sitting. The restaurant is closed for lunch on Wednesdays, with dinner service running from 5pm to 9pm on that day. Thursdays and Fridays see both lunch from 11:30am to 2:45pm and dinner from 5pm to 9pm and 9:30pm respectively. Saturday and Sunday feature extended lunch hours from 11:30am to 3:15pm, with dinner from 5pm to 9:30pm on Saturday and until 9pm on Sunday. The restaurant remains closed all day on Mondays and Tuesdays. Guests are encouraged to book in advance via the website to secure preferred times, especially on weekends and during peak dining periods.

Joining the Inari Team

As part of the dynamic Tiger Lane hospitality group, Inari Canberra Centre is always on the lookout for passionate individuals to join its team. The restaurant values creativity, dedication, and a genuine love for Japanese cuisine and service excellence. Career opportunities span kitchen roles, where chefs can refine their skills in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment, and front-of-house positions where personality and a commitment to guest satisfaction are paramount. Those interested in joining the team can find current openings and recruitment information through the Tiger Lane website, and are invited to become part of a venue that is redefining Japanese dining in Canberra.