Words and Photography: Joy Hansen
In the heart of McKellar in Canberra, Raijin invites you to immerse yourself in a Japanese-inspired ambiance. The interior is adorned with daruma dolls, Japanese literature (including our Nichigo Press magazines!), and the gentle sound of J-pop music in the background. Since its establishment in 2018, Raijin has become a beloved gathering spot for Canberra’s Japanese community, including the Australia-Japan Society, Embassy of Japan in Australia, and ANU Za Kabuki Club.
Owned and operated by Zilla and Eddie, originally from Hong Kong, Raijin is a family-run establishment. Zilla serves as the friendly waitress, often assisted by her 3 children who lend a hand in the restaurant. Meanwhile, Chef Eddie crafts the delectable Japanese dishes that grace the menu. The name ‘Raijin’ pays homage to the Japanese god of lightning, thunder, and storms, reflecting the couple’s admiration for Japanese culture.
Before settling in Canberra, Chef Eddie spent a decade living in Japan, where he pursued photography during the day and honed his culinary skills by night. This formative experience greatly influences the unique and enticing menu offerings at Raijin.
Raijin’s Signature Dishes
Raijin’s standout dish is the Black Curry, a rich and smooth curry infused with bittersweet chocolate for its distinctive dark colour. Served with scrambled eggs and rice, it promises to tantalize the taste buds.
Another crowd favourite is the Pork Char Siu Ramen topped with half an egg, kikurage mushrooms, nori, and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. During autumn, you can look forward to Raijin’s seasonal Yuzu Ramen, available for a limited time!
Sushi enthusiasts can indulge in innovative rolls like the Kimchi Beef Rolls or the vegetarian-friendly Raijin Vegetarian Rolls, filled with tofu, cucumber, avocado, salad, and special veg ingredients. Additionally, the Katsu Tofu entrée offers a crispy deep-fried tofu served with Raijin’s homemade special sauce.
Giving Back to the Community
Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Raijin adapted by offering takeaway services, which remained popular among its regular customers. Keeping menu costs affordable and giving back to the community were central priorities for Raijin during these trying times.
Through initiatives such as the popcorn chicken promotion, Raijin raised over $400 to support homeless pets in Canberra’s rescue shelter. Additionally, Raijin extends its support to local schools and offices by offering catering services, providing an opportunity for students to experience traditional Japanese dishes.
Raijin’s commitment to fostering a sense of community, coupled with its friendly service and authentic Japanese offerings, continues to underpin its popularity. Visit their establishment in McKellar to experience the warmth of Raijin’s hospitality firsthand, or indulge in their culinary delights from the comfort of your own home through their takeaway services!
Raijin Japanese Cuisine
Address: Unit 3/4 – 6 Bennetts Cl., McKellar ACT 2617
Opening Hours (public holidays excluded): Tuesday-Wednesday: 5:30PM-8:30PM,Thursday: 11:30AM-2PM, 5:30-8:30PM,Friday-Saturday: 11:30AM-2PM, 5:30PM-9PM,Sunday-Monday: Closed
Phone: 0415 325 688
Email: raijin.jc@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaijinJapaneseCuisine/
