Lunar by Hikari

Lunar by Hikari is the sequel to CBD cafe Hikari. While Hikari is known for matcha and hojicha (roasted green tea), here it’s all about coffee.

That starts with the extensive list of pour-over options, which are sourced from 10 different Japanese roasters including Kyoto roasters Weekenders Coffee and Coyote Coffee. While espresso drinks are made using a blend of beans from North Melbourne brew bar and coffee roasters Path or Brunswick’s Code Black Coffee. There’s also a yuzu coffee spritz made by mixing cold brew and Japanese yuzu syrup with sparkling water.

Coffee pairs well with sweets like matcha cream and red bean paste-covered strawberries wrapped with mochi; emoji-perfect chiffon cakes; or yuzu cheesecake – Lunar’s take on a classic Basque cheesecake made with yuzu kajyu (or yuzu fruit juice) from Kochi, Japan.

More highlights include the mentaiko onigiri, where cod roe buried in rice offers a burst of umami, and the prawn steak sando, a textured delight with tender prawn covered in a crisp crumb and served between slices of soft white bread.