From Carlton Favourite to Brunswick Star

When Ima Project Cafe in Carlton closed at the peak of its popularity, Melbourne’s brunch crowd mourned the loss. But the story didn’t end there. Founders Asako Miura and James Spinks have brought the beloved Japanese-inspired eatery back to life as Ima Asa Yoru—now housed in a bigger, more polished space in Brunswick’s Nightingale Village.

A Day-to-Night Transformation

True to its name (which means morning and night), Ima Asa Yoru serves up Japanese breakfast and lunch by day, then transforms into a lively izakaya by night, complete with sake and bar-style small plates.

Signature Dishes, New Delights

Fans of the original will be glad to see the return of the teishoku set—a traditional tray with rice, miso soup, pickles, and your choice of fish or eggplant. But there’s plenty of new to explore too:

• Chirashi: Seasoned sushi rice topped with kingfish, rolled omelette, and crispy rice puffs

• Mazesoba: A dry noodle bowl with minced pork, vegetables, and a soft-cooked egg

Thoughtful Drinks for Every Hour

The drinks list includes coffee from Wide Open Road, single-origin matcha and hojicha lattes, Mörk hot chocolate, and refreshing house-made juices.

Sleek, Minimal, and Modern

Gone is the quaint charm of Ima’s first home—in its place is a space defined by clean lines, bold colour accents, and the glow of paper lanterns, lending the venue a calm and elegant atmosphere.

A Pantry Next Door

Right next door is Ima Pantry—a tidy little grocer packed with fresh produce, household staples, and Japanese pantry essentials like mirin, soy sauce, and sake vinegar (available in bulk). Attached is a small café, serving onigiri, Japanese toasties, and their popular chicken nanban roll with tartare sauce—perfect for a quick bite on the go.