In the heart of Redfern, a 15-seat restaurant is shaking up Sydney’s dining scene with a theatrical twist on Japanese fine dining. At R by Raita Noda, each dish is a performance and guests are part of the act—seated just steps from the chefs as they craft a constantly evolving 10-course menu.
A Family Affair with Global Roots
The latest project from renowned chef Raita Noda, who launched Sydney’s first omakase restaurant over two decades ago, R by Raita Noda is a more immersive spin on the tradition. Now joined by his son, Momotaro, Noda shifts the focus to guest interaction, offering diners a front-row seat to the kitchen and chefs all night long.
The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 p.m. until late. Located in Redfern’s Wunderlich Lane, it was designed by local architect Koichi Takada to feel like a rainy night in Tokyo. The space features mirrored ceilings, dim lighting, and black chain curtains to create a moody, cinematic feel.
Dining as Performance
There’s no set menu here. Each dish highlights seasonal Australian produce, crafted with Japanese technique and theatrical timing. Some courses arrive on custom Perspex staircases, like the “Stairway to Heaven” sashimi with aged wild tuna, Tasmanian sea urchin, and house-made ravioli.
Each night’s service is choreographed into acts, chefs prepare, plate, and serve each dish in a way that draws the eyes as much as the palate. The aim, according to the team, is to entertain and surprise guests through both flavour and visual drama.
Premium Drinks to Match
To complement the food, the restaurant offers more than 200 wines, 70 new-world whiskies, and 30 premium sakes. Guests can choose between two drink pairings: one with boutique wines and sake at $180 per person, and another featuring more rare and prestigious selections at $240.
The team recommends booking early, as the seating is limited to just 15 people per evening. Dietary requirements, including a vegetarian option, can be handled with prior notice, but not on the day of dining.
Culinary Tradition Meets Community
While the restaurant brings high-end dining to Redfern, it also aims to connect with the local community. Its small size encourages conversation, and its theatrical style draws attention to Sydney’s evolving food culture.
R by Raita Noda carves out a unique place in the city’s dining scene by focusing on seasonal ingredients and personal service, turning each meal into an experience rather than just a meal.
Published 8-April-2025
