Bisa Hospitality has welcomed a new addition to Canberra’s dining scene this week with the launch of Azuma Den, a restaurant that brings together the elegance of Japanese cuisine with the bold, flavour-packed traditions of Korea.

Azuma, meaning “East” in Japanese, celebrates the culinary artistry of East Asia. From Japan comes simplicity, seasonality and refined technique, while Korea contributes its love of fermentation, balance and big flavour. Brought together over the flames of the hibachi grill, Azuma Den delivers a dining experience that is dramatic and comforting.

Leading the kitchen is Bisa Hospitality’s Executive Chef Junho ‘Luffy’ Koh, alongside Sous Chef Jun Kim, bringing with them unique stories that shape Azuma Den’s menu. Chef Koh, classically trained in Italian cuisine, now returns to his Korean roots and passion for Japanese cooking, while Chef Kim’s journey began in the Korean army kitchens before honing his skills in Japanese knife work here in Australia. Together, the duo have built a menu centred on fire, flavour and connection.

“Cooking with fire is really honest work. It shows my skills, my control, and even my personality as a chef,” says Chef Kim. “The fire and charcoal create flavours that can’t be replicated – exciting and challenging at the same time.”

For Chef Koh, it’s about harmony, “By eating delicious food cooked over fire, customers can feel energised and comforted. It’s about passing on warmth through food.”

The dishes reflect this, from sizzling pork belly ssam wraps, finished on the hibachi and paired with crisp perilla leaves, to a playful coconut meringue with miso yuzu caramel and grilled mandarin, fusing Western techniques with Asian flavours.

The interiors are layered and textural, drawing inspiration from natural plant dyes and centuries-old traditions across East Asia. Earthy, warm and inviting, the design mirrors the restaurant’s culinary philosophy – respect for the land, the seasons and the hands that create.

With an open kitchen and the theatre of fire on full display, dining at Azuma Den is as much about the experience as the food – a space where warmth, flavour and culture come together.

Azuma Den is located at 69 Canberra Avenue, Kingston in the East Hotel, and is open for lunch from Wed-Sun with dinner 7 days a week.

Find out more or book your seat at the new dining spot on their website here.