There are few places in Johannesburg that so seamlessly blend traditional Japanese authenticity with understated elegance, but Yamato Japanese Restaurant, tucked in the heart of Melrose Arch, does just that. On a chilly Father’s Day evening in the city, Yamato offered us not just a meal, but a memorable experience of warmth, wonder and world-class Japanese cuisine.
My parents and I were welcomed with the kind of gracious hospitality that is often spoken about, but rarely encountered. The team at Yamato exudes a quiet confidence and attentiveness that makes every guest feel like a regular. The space, the soft lighting, the hum of conversation, the waft of miso and sesame in the air drew us in with an invitation to stay a little longer and savour a little deeper.
Melrose Arch itself has always promised something a little different. It’s a space where families can truly come together and Yamato fits into that promise effortlessly: intimate enough for a special occasion, yet welcoming enough for a casual Sunday celebration with the ones you love most.
We started our evening with a trio of flavour-packed starters: perfectly crisp vegetable spring rolls, tender chicken gyoza dumplings and a beautifully balanced salmon tartar with avocado that set the tone for what was to come.
For mains, my dad and I couldn’t resist indulging in our sushi favourites – all things salmon! The salmon handrolls, California inside-out rolls, fashion sandwiches and salmon roses were fresh, delicate and beautifully presented. My mom opted for the beef fillet teriyaki, which was rich, tender and cooked to perfection.
Dessert was a celebration in itself: a smorgasbord of Japanese-inspired treats including refreshing mango sorbet, creamy green tea ice cream and the show-stopping tempura-fried Haagen-Dazs ice cream, decadently drizzled with homemade chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of almonds which was pure indulgence!
Thank you once again to the Yamato team for the incredible service and attention to detail. Your warmth and generosity turned a simple family dinner into a deeply memorable Father’s Day celebration. We’ll be back soon with hearts and bellies full.
Arigatou gozaimasu!