Kappaya Japanese Soul Food Cafe

I went there after spending a beautiful afternoon in the park nearby. The little cafe is a hidden gem! We didn't expect it to be anything special before I had the first taste of the food, woo, the fried chicken is heaven! Dumplings are so delicious and fresh! I have always been a fan of Japanese food and I know that freshness is from the food itself! Some restaurants use additives to enhance the flavour but this is absolutely different! Had a lovely chat with the staff, they are so down to earth and was amazed by their high standard for food quality. They also serve coffee which is great for coffee lovers. With the breeze and soft sunshine coming through the leaves, and the possum innocently looking at you at times, this is a place where you only feel relax and joy. I didn't take many photos of the food because it was gone so quickly! We were enjoying the moment so much that I didn't think of anything else at all! Definitely will go back again!

Kappaya was the only place I ate lunch when I used to work nearby a few years ago. And even though I no longer work nearby I still come back here with my family. Nestled next to Convent Bakery this quaint little Japanese cafe delivers the best food that--as it's name says--is literally for the soul. Every dish is a standout--from the fried or steamed chicken (the broth is amazing), tofu, sesame pudding (dessert) and organic coffee. This place always keeps me coming back for more.

Went there last weekend and was dismayed to find new management has taken over. New team consisted of 2 young Chinese guys taking orders and an older lady "manager", and it was obvious none of them have any experience in F&B. Service was appalling, tables not cleared, my order was mixed up and the wait time triple what it usually took under the old management. Lady manager kept coming up to patrons to ask what they had ordered, appeared completely befuddled. The Japanese kitchen staff were still there but at this rate, doubt if they will stay long. The gentle harmony and peaceful vibe of the place under the previous Japanese owner is gone. Doubt I'll be returning. We'll miss u, Kaji.

We have been fallen in love with Japanese foods as well as their culture after visiting the country for a few times and Kappaya has remind us so much of it. Hidden in Abbotsford which is only 5 minutes from the Melbourne CBD right in Richmond, we were so surprised to experience a relax atmosphere and organic food. The foods are amazing, cooked well and present in Japanese style. I love the rice which beans are added to complete the nutrition it needed. The chicken is not too oily and tofu is nice and tender. If you love organic food and like to have a pause in the busy life of Melbourne, you should go and experience it out.

Would definitely recommend visiting here just for the location alone! Really beautiful place, and there are nice tables outside. The beer is served in an ice cold glass, making it feel extra special. I ordered a bento box, and despite being very impressed with how pretty and cool the dish looked, Would recommend maybe skipping the bento box, and getting the egg or chicken broth dishes in stead, or ordering tapas dishes instead of just the bento box. Those dishes just looked nicer, and the bento boxes left you a little bit unsatisfied. Still highly recommend though, staff lovely and would go back!