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TL;DR

YTB – formerly Yugen Tea Bar, now serving brunch in South Yarra

Once known as Yugen Tea Bar, this South Yarra spot has had a reboot. Rebranded as YTB, it has moved away from a refined, tea-focused style. Now, it offers a looser, louder vibe centered on daytime dining.

YTB, located above Yugen, still serves great ceremonial matcha and house-roasted hojicha. The vibe is more relaxed: Brunch favorites with a Japanese twist. Think of snacks that make your weekend special. Plus, there’s a pastry section that rivals any patisserie.

Taiyaki, but make it savoury

I’ve had sweet taiyaki before, but never a savoury version – and this one delivers. Buckwheat crisp on the outside, miso egg and aged cheddar inside, with pickles and ginger dressing to cut the richness. Unexpected and very, very good.

The prawn and scallop toastie is another standout, packed with umami. It’s one of those dishes you don’t want to share but probably should.

Sweets, sides, and Bruce the Cake

Then there’s Bruce the Cake – a monster slab of Valrhona chocolate wrapped in silky ganache. Inspired by Matilda’s Bruce Bogtrotter (you know the one), it’s unapologetically indulgent.

There’s also a matcha white chocolate cookie that doesn’t skimp on gooey centre or green tea hit. For something lighter, grab one of the daily pastries or a scoop of housemade gelato.

Coffee, cocktails, and quiet luxury

The coffee’s from ONA, made with care by barista Alec Guerzoni (ex-CIBI, Allpress). Tea lovers are still well looked after, with a focused list that’s been simplified for everyday sipping – think quality without the ceremony. There’s a short cocktail list too, including an Oriental Bloody Mary if you're after something punchy.

The fitout is sleek and minimal, with dark stone, sculptural ceramics and just the right amount of drama. You can find weekend pop-ups, special pastries, and even dog treats made in-house if you're swinging by with your furry friend.

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