The culinary landscape of Chatswood Chase has welcomed an exciting new addition with the opening of DOPA, the vibrant Japanese fast-casual eatery from The Devon Group.
This marks DOPA’s ninth location, rapidly following the success of their Victoria Cross store, and bringing a fresh take on Japanese comfort food to Sydney’s North Shore.
Named after dopamine, DOPA promises a transformative culinary experience, akin to the chemical reaction its name suggests. Executive Chef Zachary Tan, known for his work at prestigious venues like Guillaume at Bennelong and Pier, alongside Executive Pastry Chef Markus Andrew, who brings his expertise from Adriano Zumbo at The Star, have crafted a menu that pays homage to Tokyo’s bustling streets. The duo expertly blends traditional Japanese flavors with a modern urban twist, embodying DOPA’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical food production.
At the heart of DOPA’s menu are the beloved Japanese donburi bowls, offering over twenty variations. Diners can enjoy classics like teriyaki chicken and karaage or venture into unique offerings such as cheeseburger wagyu & pickles, wagyu beef tongue, unagi, or glacier 51 toothfish. Exclusive to the Chatswood store, from October 14th to November 17th, is the limited-edition yellow fin tuna donburi, featuring sashimi-grade tuna with delightful accompaniments like ponzu and salmon caviar, priced at $25.50. For those seeking lighter fare, soba salads with options like veggie, Angus beef, and grilled hake are available.
Dessert lovers are in for a treat with the popular DOPA Shibuya toast, available in flavours such as matcha and lotus Biscoff, and the signature matcha or original cheesecake. The traditional Japanese shaved ice dessert, kakig?ri, is served with syrup and soft cream in tempting flavours of matcha, strawberry, or mango. Signature drinks include DOPA’s home-brewed iced tea in lychee, raspberry, and yuzu flavours, along with Dopashakes in coconut lychee, mango, and matcha variants.
The vibrant menu is matched by DOPA’s innovative interiors, designed by the award-winning studio Tom Mark Henry. The 40-seat restaurant boasts iconic red brick with blue tile accents, creating a sleek and inviting atmosphere. Inspired by Japanese culture, the red and blue wave pattern highlights the booth seating, while Japanese graphics adorn the walls, complemented by modern light timber and colourful furniture. Central to DOPA’s ethos is ‘DOPA Boy’, a character depicted throughout the eatery, symbolising the exhilarating boost and superpower-like feeling one experiences after enjoying DOPA’s fresh and healthy offerings.
With its engaging menu and dynamic setting, DOPA at Chatswood Chase is set to be a hit among those looking for a quick yet satisfying bite. Whether you’re craving a comforting donburi or a refreshing dessert, DOPA offers a unique dining experience that captures the essence of Japanese fast-casual dining with a contemporary twist.