Unlimited wagyu beef, sashimi and ramen in Chinatown

Matsusaka Backstreet is a cheerful, warm and relaxed Japanese restaurant in Haymarket

This eatery isn’t the type to announce itself prominently on the streets. It’s likelier that a friend introduces you to it, or you’ve seen a food blogger compliment it on social media. Matsusaka Backstreet is a bit of a hidden gem located next to Paddy’s Markets in Haymarket.

Well-marbled cuts of Wagyu beef delivered to your table.

Its entrance is not obvious. Look for a flight of stairs next to the Xi’An restaurant on Hay St and walk up to Level 1. Open the door and you’ll be greeted by the cozy space of Matsusaka Backstreet. With Orion beer lanterns and light bulb ropes hanging from the ceiling, Japanese pop/rock music playing in the background and vibrant posters, you’ll feel like you’re not in Sydney anymore. See what I mean in this TikTok video.

Dine in a casual environment styled after the backstreets of Japan.

A yakiniku experience with your family, and your little kid can eat for free

The all-you-can-eat meal is available for dinner only, and is served through three different levels. If you go for the Standard level, you’ll pay around $65 and will be able to choose from 60 dishes. The highest level is Premium, and entitles you to choose from 100 dishes. Matsusaka Backstreet will allow your kid to eat for free, if they are under 5 😉

The different cuts of Wagyu beef include rump, Ox Tongue, Finger Cut, rib, skirt and eye round, with chicken and pork on offer too. In yakiniku style, you cook on the grills provided on each table; make sure you use the house-made sauces that are also provided (they are yum)!

Matsusaka Backstreet’s Premium buffet has 100 dishes to choose from.

Especially during this season of cold and shivers, it’s attractive that Matsusaka Backstreet’s buffet menu also serves ramen. There are different varieties, including Tonkotsu, Gyokai Shoyu and Miso. The broth is rich and I’d recommend ordering half-bowls to try the different flavours. Ramen in chicken broth as well as unique Udon in Curry are available too.

If you order the Premium buffet and enjoy seafood, you’ll also want to order their kingfish, salmon and scallop sashimi varieties. Crumbed oysters, soft shell crab salad and octopus sushi are also dishes to leave stomach room for 😉

Matsusaka Backstreet accepts bookings via this link.