Taki Canberra Centre

Taki Canberra Centre brings an authentic Japanese dining experience to the heart of Canberra, located on the ground level of the Canberra Centre on Bunda Street. The restaurant is renowned for its dual-concept offering, inviting guests to choose between two distinct and immersive culinary traditions: shabu-shabu (Japanese hot pot) and yakiniku (Japanese BBQ). This unique setup, detailed on the Taki website and highlighted in customer reviews, makes it a standout destination for both casual meals and special occasions.

According to Google Maps reviews, where Taki holds a 4.3-star rating from 591 reviews, diners consistently praise the interactive nature of the meal. As one local guide, Emily Tuivailala, noted, the restaurant has become a "staple" for her visits to Canberra, citing the "perfectly marinated meat, fresh ingredients, and interactive BBQ experience." The price point, reported by 357 people, falls in the $40–$120 per person range, positioning Taki as a mid-to-premium dining choice in the city.

Menu Highlights at Taki Canberra Centre

The menu is a celebration of Japanese cuisine, with a sharp focus on premium Australian wagyu beef. The yakiniku side of the restaurant is built around tableside grilling over glowing coals. The website showcases the famous ‘Stairway to Heaven’ platter — a 450g selection of premium wagyu including short rib, sirloin, karubi, and skirt, served with house-made dipping sauces and spices. Reviewers frequently mention the wagyu as a highlight, with Daniel Han, another Google Maps local guide, stating the "Japanese Barbecue was delicious" and that the "marinated Wagyu... was my favourite."

On the shabu-shabu side, the experience is centered on a bubbling pot of broth made fresh in-house. The website describes this as a traditional communal dining form representing friendship, with a saying: "I like you enough to dip chopsticks with you!" Diners choose from signature hot pot platters, with one reviewer, selvy, noting the clear kombu broth as being particularly delicious. The a la carte menu, available from the kitchen counter seating, rounds out the offerings with other Japanese staples like sashimi, karaage, and sukiyaki, as seen in the Maps photos.

The Dining Experience

The atmosphere at Taki is a key part of its appeal. The about page on the website tells "The Legend of Taki," a story of a koi fish transforming into a dragon that thematically separates the two dining areas. The shabu-shabu area features traditional tatami mat seating, designed to evoke a calm, communal riverside setting. In contrast, the yakiniku area channels the "fiery heat of the dragon" with its tabletop coal grills. This design has not gone unnoticed; a Google Maps review by selvy specifically mentions the "unique space of the restaurant" as being a deciding factor for their visit.

The restaurant is fully accessible, with a confirmed LGBTQ+ friendly attribute on Google Maps, and offers a range of service options. As per the Maps listing and website, customers can enjoy dine-in, takeaway, and online ordering. The venue also caters to private functions, with a dedicated functions page on the website. Whether you're seeking a hands-on family lunch or a unique dinner for two, Taki provides a bespoke dining experience chosen by the guest.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

What Guests Are Saying

With a strong 4.3-star rating on Google Maps from 591 reviews, Taki has cemented its reputation in Canberra's dining scene. The most common themes in customer feedback are the quality of the meat and the fun, interactive nature of the BBQ and hot pot.

• Premium Ingredients: Reviews repeatedly highlight the wagyu beef and fresh produce. Daniel Han’s mention of the "200g Wagyu steak" and Emily Tuivailala’s note on "perfectly marinated meat" are representative of this widespread praise.
• Interactive Experience: The act of cooking at the table is a major draw. Emily Tuivailala's comment that the "interactive BBQ experience makes every visit memorable" reflects a sentiment that distinguishes Taki from a standard restaurant meal.
• Ambiance and Vibe: The unique decor and split-dining concept are frequently mentioned as a positive, with diners recommending the spot for its atmosphere as much as its food.

Taki Canberra Centre in Canberra City

Taki is situated in one of Canberra's most central and accessible locations. The address is FG16/148 Bunda St, on the ground level of the Canberra Centre, a major shopping and lifestyle hub. Its precise location between Bunda Street and Scotts Crossing makes it easy to find for both locals and visitors exploring the city center. The restaurant is close to various shops and entertainment venues within the Canberra Centre, making it a convenient choice for a meal before or after a day of shopping or sightseeing. Parking is available within the Canberra Centre's parking facilities, and the venue is on the ground floor, facilitating easy access.

Hours, Reservations & Contact

Taki Canberra Centre is open seven days a week for both lunch and dinner, making it a flexible option for any schedule.

Operating hours are as follows:

• Monday - Thursday: Lunch 11:30 am - 2:45 pm, Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
• Friday: Lunch 11:30 am - 2:45 pm, Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
• Saturday & Sunday: Lunch 11:30 am - 3:15 pm, Dinner 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm (9:00 pm on Sunday)

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made directly through the "BOOK NOW" link on the website, which uses the Now Book It platform. For direct inquiries, the restaurant can be contacted via phone at +61 432 028 852 or by email at hello@taki.restaurant.

Common Questions

What is the difference between the shabu-shabu and yakiniku areas at Taki?

The two areas offer distinct dining experiences. Shabu-shabu features traditional tatami mat seating around a communal hot pot with simmering broth, while yakiniku, or Japanese BBQ, is focused on cooking meat and seafood tableside over glowing coals. You must select your seating area when booking based on your preference.

Does Taki Canberra Centre cater to dietary requirements?

While the restaurant's core offering centers on meat and seafood hot pot and BBQ, contacting Taki directly at hello@taki.restaurant is the best way to discuss specific dietary needs or allergies so the team can advise on suitable menu options.

What are the most popular menu items at Taki?

Based on Google Maps reviews and the restaurant's website, the premium wagyu beef is a standout, especially the 'Stairway to Heaven' BBQ platter. For hot pot, the custom platters with freshly made in-house broths are highly recommended.

Where exactly is Taki located in the Canberra Centre?

Taki is on the ground level of the Canberra Centre, at 148 Bunda Street. It is positioned between the Bunda Street and Scotts Crossing entrances, making it easily accessible from both sides of the shopping center.

Is Taki suitable for a family dinner?

Yes, the interactive, communal nature of both shabu-shabu and yakiniku makes it a popular choice for family lunches and dinners. The restaurant is open seven days a week with family-friendly operating hours.

How can I make a reservation at Taki?

Reservations can be made online via the "BOOK NOW" button on the Taki website, which redirects to their booking partner, Now Book It. You can choose your preferred dining area, date, and time directly from the platform.