Fortitude Valley’s acclaimed Sushi Room is serving up more than just exceptional Japanese cuisine this January—it’s bringing Brisbane’s culinary prowess to centre court. Chef Shimpei Raikuni returns to the Australian Open for the second consecutive year, creating an exclusive on-court omakase dining experience that puts the spotlight on Queensland’s thriving dining scene at one of the world’s premier sporting events.
Read: Sushi Room Expansion Completed in Fortitude Valley
The collaboration, part of the tournament’s ultra-premium AO Reserve offering, provides guests with an unparalleled combination of world-class tennis and world-class dining. On 18 January, diners will enjoy unmatchable on-court seats at Rod Laver Arena with uninterrupted viewing, followed by a private omakase experience in a suite beneath the stadium—just moments from the action.
This marks Raikuni’s second year collaborating with the Australian Open, building on the success of their previous partnership. The experience, priced from $2,500, goes beyond just the meal. Guests receive Piper-Heidsieck champagne and private chauffeur service, creating what the Australian Open describes as an exceptional day or evening at the tournament. It’s an opportunity for Raikuni to showcase the philosophy that has made Sushi Room one of Brisbane’s most respected dining destinations.
Raikuni’s approach centres on precision and a deep respect for ingredients, with each dish reflecting his exacting standards and commitment to using only the finest produce. His menu for the Australian Open balances quality with traditional Japanese culinary principles, bringing the energy from Brisbane’s Calile Hotel precinct to Melbourne’s Grand Slam stage.
The chef draws inspiration from masters like Sushi Anamoto in Japan, where he experienced firsthand how effective simplicity can be when ingredients are handled with complete attention to detail. This philosophy of restraint and respect for produce has become the foundation of everything he creates.
For Brisbane, the collaboration represents growing recognition of the city’s culinary scene on the national stage. Raikuni sees tremendous potential in the city, particularly with the 2032 Olympics approaching, and values Brisbane as an excellent place for families, praising its weather, community spirit, and welcoming residents.
In a lighter moment, when asked about his Australian Open plans beyond the kitchen, Chef Shimpei Raikuni expressed genuine enthusiasm about trying Shake Shack for the first time, as the American chain isn’t yet available in Australia.
About Sushi Room
Sushi Room has built a strong reputation since opening its doors in 2021, nestled beneath The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley. The moody, minimal space was designed by Richards & Spence to feel intimate and theatrical, with every detail—from the produce to the playlist—treated with deliberate care. It’s the kind of place where restraint meets craft, and dining borders on performance art.
Read: Fortitude Valley Showroom Reimagined as Luxury Home Destination
Last year, Sushi Room underwent a significant transformation, reopening in May with an entirely new wing that wraps around to Doggett Street. The expansion features a mirrored ceiling, marble bar, brushed-steel alfresco tables, and plush booths designed for extended evenings. The aesthetic shifts slightly from the original space, offering warmth and contrast while maintaining the restaurant’s signature sophistication. With the expansion significantly increasing capacity, Sushi Room now offers greater flexibility—whether that’s a full omakase experience or simply a few pieces of nigiri and a well-crafted cocktail.
Published 6-January-2026
