Don Tojo — Restaurant in Melbourne

My partner took me to Don Tojo one night, with big claims that it was to Melbourne University students what Don Don is to once-starving RMIT graduates like myself - quality Japanese food, fast service, great price with nostalgia on the side.

Don Tojo does not disappoint. Even on a cold winter night, the walls seem to ooze a sense of connection and warmth from the endless stories and laughter that have been shared within it. Simple decor, industrial vibes and a shabby chic aesthetic seem like familiar themes in modern Japanese places.

Incredible service, bowls made it to the table probably within a few minutes - I still felt like I was getting comfortable when the food arrived. The staff were friendly and polite and their relatively simple menu no doubt makes it easier to provide a quick and consistent product at the very very reasonable prices they offer it at.

The food itself was simply great. For salmon fans, the sashidon is a must try. Next time I go back, the pork katsu don is on my list though, as the table next to us got it and that curry smelt GREAT.

If you're a fan of tasty and healthy Japanese food with quick service at a great price get on down...

Edit: I am a regular who usually gets the soba salad with added avocado (which I would pay extra for). But today I was told they cannot do that and have never been able to do that, and no reason was provided. Just wondering why this has happened?

Furthermore, I understand that you need to keep costs down, but it would be nice to see hot vegetarian main dishes especially since winter is coming. Before I could get the spring rolls, but now any sides are only available after 2pm which is a bit sad since it's far later than most peoples' lunch breaks.

The food is still terrific and fast to boot for such a low price.

The soba salad and spring rolls are fantastic!! I'm so mad at myself for not having found this place before. The food is cheap, delicious and nutritious, and the atmosphere is so lively!

If I had to list a complaint it would be that there aren't many vegetarian/pescatarian items on the menu (teriyaki tofu don would be nice) But it's because of this that I discovered the soba salad, and I'll be coming back to...

I ordered a Chicken Curry. A few people let me know that this place has gone downhill over the years. The chicken was not the usual quality, ⅓rd had fatty (too chewy,) pieces and I left them. The curry sauce was like from a quick-make packet. Next day I woke up not feeling good, like I had eaten something not quite right. I struggled with my belly all day and sipped on water only, until 4pm. Very disappointing as I love this place. I will still give the one in the City (Don Don,) a try when I go there next. Perhaps it was a new chef?, perhaps a bad night? But the chicken supplier definitely needs to change. I would rather pay $1-2 more for better quality. I nearly gave two stars, but after years of patronage, I decided to give...