Relax at Yarra’s Edge

Yarra’s Edge Japanese restaurant Zen Izakaya aims to deliver an experience that matches its name.

According to head chef and manager Thomas Chen, the term “zen” means peaceful and calm, while “Izakaya” is a type of Japanese after-work bar.

So, combined, Zen Izakaya equals a relaxed bar where visitors, residents and local workers can enjoy a drink and some traditional Japanese snacks.

“Of course, we offer more than just snacks and drinks and can cater for meals also,” Mr Chen said.

For sake connoisseurs, Zen Izakaya is a must-visit, with a wide range of sake on offer, according to Mr Chen.

Zen Izakaya’s sake ranges from house sake, all the way to Daiginjo, which according to Mr Chen is the highest grade of sake.

For those not too familiar with the fermented rice beverage, Zen Izakaya staff can suggest sake and meal pairings.

But, if sake isn’t your thing the bar also has a range of Japanese and local beers on offer, along with a selection of wine and cocktails.

The bar hopes to add to its regular clientele of local residents and workers from neighbouring businesses.

Apart from great food, Mr Chen said another great part about dining at Zen Izakaya was the view and convenient location.

“The location on the riverside has really beautiful views and it is nice and quiet.”

“It’s a quiet place to escape from the noisy city,” he said.

This month the restaurant is introducing steak nights each Tuesday.

Guests who order any dish from the a la carte menu can also order a 200g steak for just $12.

Zen Izakaya is located on the riverfront at 70 Lorimer St, Docklands.

To find out more visit http://www.zenizakaya.com.au or call on 9646 2400.

Six years of selling

Local Real Estate agency City Residential Real Estate this year celebrates six years of selling and leasing homes across the inner-city.

The business was started by Glenn Donnelly and Richard Mindraoui in 2008 and first opened in Siddeley St, before moving to Lorimer St two years ago.

“We decided to move into a high-profile office two years ago and we believe it’s Melbourne’s most high-profile real-estate office,” Mr Donnelly said.

The office provides high-exposure along Lorimer St, which Mr Donnelly says has helped to double City Residential Real Estate’s rent-roll over the past two years.

City Residential Real Estate has also increased its share of the Yarra’s Edge portfolio since moving into the office, according to Mr Donnelly.

“It’s been a fantastic move for us,” he said.

Although based in Docklands, City Residential Real Estate also services Melbourne, Southbank and St Kilda Rd.

According to Mr Donnelly, the business tailors its services to the individual renter or buyer, by offering inspections at a time that suits them, rather than asking them to wait for open for inspections.

Mr Donnelly said another unique aspect of City Residential Real Estate was how heavily involved he and fellow directors Richard Mindraoui and Lina D’Ambrosio are in the day-to-day running of the business.

“All three directors are very active in the business,” Mr Donnelly said.

“I’m selling Docklands apartments, Richard is selling Melbourne and Southbank apartments and Lina is leasing Melbourne, Southbank and Docklands apartments.”

Additionally, all three directors live in Docklands, which not only makes for a quick commute, but has also increased their local knowledge.

“We can sell the benefits better than anyone else, because we’re here all the time,” Mr Donnelly said. “We’re true believers in the area.”

“I love living here, I love working here and I love selling and leasing in the precinct. I think it’s a really fantastic place to live,” he added.

City Residential Real Estate is located at 50 Lorimer Street. For more information visit www. cityresidential.com.au or call the office on 8614 8999.