If obscure Japanese condiments and milk drinks in cans are your kind of thing, make a beeline to Hinoki Japanese Pantry, nestled in the heart of Fitzroy’s bustling Smith Street.
The shelves of this sleek supermarket are stocked with a huge selection of authentic and unique Japanese ingredients, condiments, snacks and drinks. Think curry cubes, karaage chicken batter, buckwheat soba noodles and frozen pork gyoza. There are also premium pantry staples including mirin, dashi and white soy sauce.
Try the yuzu jam, made from the citrus fruit’s peel, zest and juice, perfect for a breakfast punch or opt for the chilli oil with crispy fried onion and garlic that’s best paired with ramen, vegetables and dumplings.
Hinoki’s booze licence means it also offers beers, wines, sake and spirits including craft gin straight from Japan. Plus, it houses an epic sushi bar, dishing up freshly-made sashimi, rolls and lunch packs, which you can also order in platters for special occasions (or a Friday night in).