Yappari Steak

Yappari is a popular Japanese fast-food chain, and this vibrant orange shopfront is its first location in Australia. It’s not like the extravagant steakhouses Sydney is used to. The Okinawa-born spot – with its rapid service and concise menu – is all about high-quality cuts of beef without the hefty price tag.

Steaks arrive at the table on a superheated lava stone, captivating diners with a dramatic sizzle. But the hot rocks aren’t just a gimmick – the idea is for diners to continue cooking their steak on the rocks to their desired doneness, similar to Korean or Japanese barbeque.

Yappari aims for the student crowd with three affordable cuts: the Yappari steak (an oyster blade cut), the rump cut and the chuck tail flap. Available in different weights – from 100 to 450 grams – each option is served as a set with rice, soup and salad. Additional menu options include garlic bread, beef tendon curry rice and fries. Vegan options are available, with plant-based burger steaks and veggie curry rice dishes.

The 44-seat eatery is easily spotted on Bathurst Street, with a golden hue generated by its warm lights and wooden interior. Booths sit along both walls, creating a family-diner feel. Seats towards the rear of the restaurant have a front-row view of the open kitchen, where sizzling steaks can be seen flying out at pace.