Melbourne’s first vegetarian and vegan sushi train pairs Southeast Asian creativity with fine-dining sophistication for a new era of “clean indulgence”
I recently visited Midori by Tao’s—Melbourne’s first vegetarian and vegan sushi train. I was there for lunch to check out their sushi train and returned later in the evening to experience their six-course dinner.
Melbourne is known for pushing culinary boundaries, but Midori by Tao’s takes that spirit to a new level—one where plant-based cuisine meets artistry, wellness, and refined Asian flavour.
Tucked away in Doncaster East, Midori is Melbourne’s first vegetarian and vegan sushi train, complemented by a six-course fine-dining menu that rotates seasonally and redefines what “clean eating” can be.
What makes Midori exceptional isn’t just its innovation, but its philosophy. The team behind it has spent years developing dishes that balance tradition and creativity—drawing not only from Japan but also from the broader palette of Southeast Asia. The result is a dining experience that’s visually stunning, texturally balanced, and deeply satisfying.
The vision at Midori by Tao’s is to offer “clean” eating that doesn’t compromise on quality, service, or presentation. In that regard, this venue ticks every box and is certainly worth visiting even if you’re not vegetarian or vegan.
The Sushi Train Experience
At lunchtime, Midori’s sushi train offers a lively yet refined introduction to its plant-based concept. Plates glide past in different hues—green ($4), red ($5), and yellow ($6)—and you simply reach out and grab whatever catches your eye.
As someone experiencing a sushi train for the first time, I was instantly engaged. For selected items, the dishes even arrived directly from the kitchen via the train—a fun, futuristic touch that added to the excitement.
From trying multiple varieties of sushi, tofu, and crispy tempura rolls to the standout Crispy Guo Bao—a fluffy bao bun filled with fried tofu, vegan Dijon mustard, and pickles—every plate was exceptionally tasty.
The miso soup was simple yet soulful, the kind of dish that reminds you why minimalism can be so comforting. To finish, I couldn’t resist the assorted cupcake trio—Lychee, Sticky Date, and Chocolate—a playful finale that showcased the kitchen’s versatility beyond savoury dishes.
It’s a vibrant, accessible, and joyful experience—the kind that makes “clean dining” feel anything but restrictive.
The Fine Dining Experience
Dinner at Midori transforms into something else entirely—calm, immersive, and artful. Their signature six-course tasting menu, which changes seasonally, combines Japanese precision with Southeast Asian warmth, showing how plant-based dining can be indulgent without excess.
Starter—Chef’s Assorted Platter of the Day
A light, colourful plate featuring cherry tomatoes with basil, roasted pumpkin on cucumber, and celery with crackers—each bite fresh and elegantly presented.
1st Entrée—Fortune Parcel with Pea Purée
I opted for the Fortune Parcel—a delicate pouch filled with peas, corn, and carrot resting on a vibrant pea purée. Opening it revealed not just flavour, but a touch of playfulness—an experiential element that enhanced the fine-dining experience.
2nd Entrée—Rice Bowl Cake (Wanguo)
This was one of the most intriguing courses: tender mushrooms and fresh coriander atop a soft, custard-like rice base. The texture was silky, almost dessert-like, yet savoury and comforting—a true cross-cultural fusion.
Soup of the Day
A clear, tea-like infusion served between courses. Light and aromatic, it acted as a palate cleanser rather than a conventional soup, allowing the next course to shine.
Main—Tofu and Oyster Mushrooms Steamed in Banana Leaves
For the main, I chose the tofu and oyster mushrooms wrapped in banana leaves and served with a crisp Asian salad topped with peanuts. The banana-leaf presentation immediately transported me to Southeast Asia, and unwrapping the parcel released a wave of delicate, fragrant flavours.
Dessert—Vegan Panna Cotta with Chocolate Mousse & Raspberry Compote
The finale was exquisite—a vegan panna cotta paired with rich chocolate mousse and tangy raspberry compote. It was creamy, balanced, and a testament to how indulgent plant-based desserts can be.
A New Chapter in “Clean” Fine Dining
What truly sets Midori by Tao’s apart is its quiet sophistication. The restaurant creates space for those who want to eat consciously without compromising on experience or elegance.
In a city filled with incredible restaurants, few specialise exclusively in vegetarian or vegan fine dining. Midori by Tao’s fills that gap beautifully—offering a premium dining atmosphere that caters equally to wellness-minded food lovers and those simply seeking something extraordinary.
From the playful vibrance of the sushi train to the serene flow of its fine-dining menu, Midori by Tao’s embodies the evolution of modern dining: sustainable, sophisticated, and soulfully delicious.
My overall experience was nothing short of delightful—a celebration of creativity, mindfulness, and flavour. Midori by Tao’s proves that plant-based food isn’t a compromise; it’s a canvas for innovation. I left feeling inspired, satisfied, and excited to return.
Midori by Tao’s
📍 201 Doncaster Road, Doncaster East, Melbourne
🌐 www.midoribytaos.com.au
Nav Ganesh is a Melbourne-based entrepreneur and lifestyle creator. He loves to travel, discover new places and share stories that inspire with his followers on Instagram @navman26
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