As the old adage goes, you should never judge a book by its cover and Beun Modern Japanese is proof. The unassuming venue actually boasts some serious culinary credentials with Yusuke Ito behind the grills and his partner Yayoi Lovern welcoming diners from front-of-house. Yusuke has held positions at some of the city’s most celebrated Japanese restaurants including the former Restaurant Ten in Broadbeach and Burleigh’s Iku Yakitori Bar and has now turned his attention to his first solo venture. Beun brings together elements of his past experiences to create a modern Japanese menu that utilises ingredients and cooking methods from Japan, Italy and France whilst honouring the heart and traditions of his homeland. The succinct menu offers a range of cold appetisers such as salmon sashimi and scallop aburi with truffle-soy butter alongside hot appetisers and flavourful ramen, which is made in-house from scratch (no soup stocks here). The mains include a Japanese marinara loaded with clam, bugs and Hokkaido scallop, or wagyu steak served with wasabi, salt and soy butter. Finish with a scoop of mango sorbet or, for the sweet tooths, there’s a decadent Belgian chocolate mousse that promises to hit the spot. Thirsty? Beun offers Suntory on tap alongside Asahi by the bottle. For a truly authentic Japanese experience, there’s a selection of chilled sake for your sipping pleasure as well as red, white and sparkling wine.