Home-style Japanese fare arrives in Marketown
Tucked away on the Coles side of Marketown in Newcastle West, Mehshiya Japan is one of the newest additions to our city’s evolving culinary scene, offering Novocastrians a fresh, refined take on home-style Japanese cuisine.
The restaurant is the brainchild of joint directors Seo and Aiden, both originally from Korea, who bring decades of hospitality experience and a deep respect for Japanese food culture to the venture.
The duo relocated from Sydney to Newcastle, drawn by the city’s harbour charm and a desire to settle with their families. What began as a shared idea between two seasoned restaurateurs has now culminated in a warm, modern Japanese eatery that places quality, authenticity, and comfort at its core.
“We’ve been working on this project for over three years. Everything has been considered – from the menu design to the kitchenware and tableware, all of which have been imported from Japan and Korea,” Aiden said.
The attention to detail is visible in every aspect of Meshiya Japan’s offering, which combines the tradition of Japanese teishoku meals with the contemporary appeal of a sando – Japanese-style sandwiches.
The menu offers both dine-in and takeaway options, catering to Marketown shoppers, lunchtime diners, and those seeking a relaxed dinner out.
The sando – generously filled sandwiches made with Japan’s no.1 milk bread – are already proving a hit.
“The bread we use goes through a long fermentation process. It’s the same bread that’s incredibly popular in Japan, and we import it directly,” Seo said.
Meanwhile, the Teishoku sets deliver an authentic taste of Japanese home cooking. Carefully plated and full of variety, these meals are designed to nourish and comfort, offering a balanced selection of rice, protein, pickles, miso soup, and sides.
“Teishoku is more than just a meal, it’s a way of eating that brings balance and a sense of home.”
Since their soft opening in May, the team has been steadily building a loyal customer bsae, many of whom are already returning for their favourite dishes.
Looking ahead, Seo and Aiden have their sights set on expanding across Newcastle and the wider Hunter region, with hopes of bringing their unique interpretation of Japanese comfort food to even more locals.
Meshiya Japan may be new to the scene, but with its authentic roots, thoughtful execution, and clear sense of purpose, it’s already feeling right at home in Newcastle West.
